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Each game counts from here on in, with a number of huge outcomes in week 14 that may determine play-off berths come the conclusion of the season.

A 42-year-old veteran quarterback dealt a big setback to Lamar Jackson's play-off hopes, while Josh Allen all-but finished Joe Burrow's hopes. At the same time, the Houston defence posed a significant challenge and could have ended the Chiefs' campaign earlier than ever in the Patrick Mahomes era.

Divisional Analysis: Division Showdowns Live Up To the Anticipation

A trio of critical rivalry games lived up to the hype.

Veteran signal-caller Rodgers, competing with a injured wrist, led his team to a hard-fought close victory in on the road. The future Hall of Famer notched his first rushing score in nearly three years, but it was his long passes to his top receiver that made the difference.

The Ravens' quarterback was out of sync as Baltimore failed to capitalize on crucial opportunities—although they were frustrated by a late score being nullified. The two teams will meet once more on the final weekend of the season.

In another, the oldest feud in the NFL saw a thrilling contest. Despite scoring bombs, an worn-out defensive unit had to thwart another late-game rally from the visiting young QB in the frigid conditions.

This outcome gave one side a slender lead in their division, whereas the losers fell from the NFC's number one seed down to seventh.

Analysis: Where Has It Gone Awry for the Chiefs?

Statistical models assign the Kansas City only a 15% chance of reaching the postseason. In all likelihood, this could be the first missed post-season for star quarterback Patrick Mahomes—and the first such for the organization in a decade.

During Mahomes' seven complete years as a starter, he has reached seven conference championship games and 5 championship games. This means the club has played nearly every available contest throughout his time.

So, the causes for the current failure are apparent and were highlighted during Sunday's defeat. Injuries decimated an already questionable O-line, with several key players out.

Despite that, the quarterback gave his team a fighting chance, but failed kicks and critical drops—including on a decisive fourth-down attempt—sealed their fate.

Spotlight: Could the Lombardi Trophy Be Heading for the Western US?

Two powerhouse teams from the West Coast conferences are building strong cases for Super Bowl favorites.

One squad, atop their the AFC, claimed the most recent title played at February's stadium. They are built on a dominant defence that tops the league in sacks and victories through methodical, long drives.

The second contender, leading the NFC, demonstrated an explosive offence capable of scoring from anywhere. They boast a formidable running game to pair with an exceptional passing attack.

A key matchup could be whether the potent offence can handle the smothering pressure of the top defense—what would be a fascinating playoff showdown.

Talking Point: Travis Kelce Pondering Retirement?

Among the aftermath from the Chiefs' loss, remarks from the quarterback about his longtime teammate fueled rumors about a potential departure.

Hearing him state, "each year... I try to appreciate since you never know" definitely sounded like the QB was preparing for the veteran to hang up his cleats.

"He will have the choice to do whatever he chooses to do following this season," Mahomes added. Should the year ends prematurely for the Chiefs, the three-time Super Bowl winner could decide to retire.

Preview: Buffalo vs. Patriots Highlights the Upcoming Slate

Josh Allen did it all again for his team in a snowy victory. He passed for 3 scores and ran for another, responsible for a remarkable percentage of his offense's overall touchdowns this year.

He is the only player in NFL annals with 3,000 passing yards, 20 TD passes and ten running scores in three straight campaigns.

Now, he tries to carry the team on his shoulders again as they try to catch their AFC East rivals, the New England Patriots—coincidentally, they are exactly who they face this coming Sunday.

Major Week 15 Matchups:

• Buffalo Bills @ New England Patriots
• Detroit Lions @ Rams
• Green Bay Packers @ Broncos
• Los Angeles Chargers @ Chiefs

Week 14 Statistical Highlights

• A kick-off runback for a 100-yard score—the biggest play of the year—sparked a scoring blitz for one team.
• A prolific wide receiver scored two scores and remains on course for a record-breaking 2,000-yard receiving.
• A feared pass rusher notched his twentieth sack of the season, moving within reach of the all-time mark.
• An overseas kicker played a key role for his team in a surprise victory in rainy conditions.
• A team that was held scoreless one week responded with a shutout of its own the following week.
• A reeling franchise saw its star quarterback come back from an elbow issue, only to exit the game once more with a related injury.