Each contest counts from here on in, with a number of enormous outcomes in week 14 that might decide play-off berths by the conclusion of the year.
A 42-year veteran quarterback landed a big setback to Lamar Jackson's play-off hopes, whereas Josh Allen virtually finished Joe Burrow's chances. At the same time, the Houston defense posed a huge problem and may have ended the Chiefs' campaign earlier than ever in the Patrick Mahomes tenure.
Divisional Analysis: Divisional Showdowns Live Up To the Hype
Three huge rivalry games delivered.
Veteran signal-caller Aaron Rodgers, competing with a injured wrist, led his team to a tough 27-22 win in on the road. He recorded his first running score in almost three years, but it was his deep throws to his star wideout that made the deciding factor.
Lamar Jackson was out of sync as Baltimore failed to capitalize on key opportunities—although they were angry by a fourth-quarter touchdown being chalked off. These teams will meet again on the last weekend of the regular season.
In another, the longest-running feud in the NFL witnessed a classic encounter. Despite scoring bombs, an exhausted defensive unit had to stop another fourth-quarter comeback from the opposing young QB in the frigid conditions.
This result handed one team a slender lead in their division, while the losers dropped from the conference's top spot down to outside the playoff picture.
In-Depth Look: Where Has It Gone Awry for the Chiefs?
Statistical models give the Kansas City only a 15% probability of making the postseason. In all likelihood, this will be the first missed playoffs for star quarterback Patrick Mahomes—and the first for the organization in a decade.
In his 7 full years as a starting quarterback, he has advanced to seven conference championship contests and 5 championship games. This indicates the club has competed in almost each available game during his time.
So, the causes for the current struggles are apparent and were summed up during the recent loss. Absences decimated an already questionable O-line, with several key players missing.
Despite that, the quarterback gave his squad a chance, but failed field goals and crucial dropped passes—such as on a pivotal fourth-down play—sealed their fate.
Spotlight: Could the Super Bowl Be Heading for the West?
A pair of powerhouse contenders from the western divisions are making compelling arguments for Super Bowl favorites.
One squad, leading their conference, claimed the last Super Bowl held at this year's stadium. They are constructed on a dominant defense that tops the NFL in quarterback takedowns and wins through grinding, time-consuming possessions.
The other contender, leading the NFC, showcased an dynamic offense capable of scoring from anywhere. They boast a formidable running attack to complement an exceptional passing game.
The question would be if the high-flying offense can handle the relentless pressure of the elite defensive unit—a a must-watch playoff matchup.
Discussion: A Star Tight End Pondering Calling It Quits?
Among the fallout from the Chiefs' loss, remarks from Patrick Mahomes about his longtime teammate fueled rumors about a possible retirement.
Hearing Mahomes state, "every year... I try to appreciate because you never know" certainly sounded like he was bracing for the 36-year-old to hang up his cleats.
"The tight end will have the choice to do what he wants to do after this campaign," Mahomes added. If the year ends prematurely for the team, the three-time Super Bowl veteran might decide to walk away.
Preview: Buffalo vs. New England Headlines the Upcoming Slate
The Bills' quarterback did it all once more for his team in a wintry win. He passed for 3 touchdowns and ran for another, responsible for a staggering percentage of his team's overall scores this year.
He is the only player in league annals with three thousand passing yards, 20 TD throws and ten running touchdowns in 3 straight seasons.
Next, he tries to carry the team on his back again as they aim to catch their division foes, the Patriots—and, they are exactly who they play this coming Sunday.
Major Week 15 Games:
- Bills @ New England Patriots
- Lions @ Rams
- Packers @ Denver Broncos
- Los Angeles Chargers @ Chiefs
This Week's Statistical Highlights
- A kick-off return for a 100-yard score—the biggest play of the season—kick-started a scoring blitz for one team.
- A star receiver scored 2 scores and is still on course for a record-breaking 2,000-yard season.
- A dominant pass rusher recorded his 20th sack of the season, moving within reach of the all-time mark.
- An overseas kicker played a key role for his team in a upset win in soggy conditions.
- A offense that was shutout one game responded with a clean sheet of its own the following week.
- A reeling franchise watched its franchise QB come back from injury, only to leave the contest once more with a related ailment.
