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Each matchup matters at this stage, with several huge results in week 14 that could determine postseason positions by the end of the year.

A 42-year veteran quarterback dealt a big setback to the Baltimore Ravens' postseason aspirations, whereas the Buffalo Bills quarterback all-but terminated the Cincinnati Bengals' hopes. At the same time, the Houston defence presented a massive problem and could have finished the Kansas City Chiefs season earlier than ever in the Patrick Mahomes era.

The Breakdown: Divisional Deciders Exceed the Hype

Three massive division clashes did not disappoint.

Seasoned signal-caller Aaron Rodgers, competing with a injured wrist, guided his team to a hard-fought close win in Baltimore. The future Hall of Famer notched his first running touchdown in almost three seasons, but it was his long throws to his top receiver that made the difference.

Lamar Jackson seemed off rhythm as Baltimore failed to capitalize on crucial chances—although they were angry by a fourth-quarter score being overturned. The two franchises will meet again on the last weekend of the season.

In another, the oldest feud in the NFL saw a thrilling contest. Despite touchdown deep passes, an exhausted defensive unit had to thwart another late-game rally from the opposing young quarterback in the frigid weather.

The result handed one side a narrow advantage in their NFC North, while the losers fell from the conference's top spot all the way to outside the playoff picture.

Analysis: What Has Gone Wrong for the Chiefs?

Statistical models assign the Chiefs only a fifteen percent probability of making the postseason. Realistically, this will be the initial missed post-season for star quarterback Mahomes—and the first for the organization in a decade.

During his 7 complete years as a starting quarterback, he has reached seven AFC Championship games and 5 Super Bowls. That means the team has played nearly each possible game throughout his time.

Therefore, the causes for the current struggles are clear and were summed up during Sunday's loss. Absences ravaged an already questionable offensive line, with several key players missing.

Despite that, the quarterback provided his squad a fighting chance, however missed kicks and crucial drops—such as on a decisive fourth-down attempt—sealed their fate.

Spotlight: Is the Super Bowl Be Heading for the Western US?

A pair of top teams from the western divisions are making strong arguments for Super Bowl favorites.

One squad, atop their the AFC, won the most recent title played at this year's venue. They are built on a dominant defence that leads the league in quarterback takedowns and wins through methodical, time-consuming possessions.

The second team, atop the NFC, demonstrated an dynamic offence capable of putting points on the board from anywhere. They feature a formidable ground game to pair with an elite passing game.

The question would be if the high-flying offence could withstand the relentless pressure of the top defense—a a must-watch playoff showdown.

Talking Point: A Star Tight End Pondering Retirement?

Amid the aftermath from the Chiefs' defeat, remarks from Patrick Mahomes about his star tight end fueled rumors about a possible retirement.

Listening to Mahomes state, "every year... I try to appreciate since you never know" certainly seemed like he was preparing for the veteran to call it a day.

"The tight end will have the choice to do what he wants to do after this season," Mahomes added. Should the year concludes prematurely for the team, the 3x Super Bowl winner could choose to walk away.

Looking Ahead: Buffalo vs. Patriots Highlights the Upcoming Slate

Josh Allen did it all again for his team in a wintry victory. Allen passed for 3 scores and ran for another, accounting for a remarkable portion of his offense's overall scores this year.

He is the first quarterback in NFL annals with 3,000 pass yards, twenty touchdown passes and 10 rushing scores in 3 straight campaigns.

Now, he tries to carry the team on his back once more as they try to catch their division rivals, the Patriots—and, that's exactly who they face this coming Sunday.

Major Week 15 Matchups:

• Bills @ New England Patriots
• Lions @ Rams
• Packers @ Denver Broncos
• Los Angeles Chargers @ Kansas City Chiefs

Week 14 Stats, Records & Notes

• A kick-off return for a 100-yard score—the longest play of the season—kick-started a second-half onslaught for one team.
• A prolific wide receiver caught two scores and is still on course for a historic 2,000-yard receiving.
• A feared defensive end notched his twentieth sack of the season, moving within reach of the single-season record.
• An overseas placekicker helped his team in a surprise win in rainy conditions.
• A offense that was shutout one week bounced back with a shutout of its own the following week.
• A reeling team watched its franchise quarterback return from an elbow issue, only to leave the game once more with a related injury.