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Every contest is crucial down the stretch, with several enormous conclusions in the fourteenth week that could determine postseason spots by the conclusion of the season.

A 42-year-old Aaron Rodgers struck a big blow to the Baltimore Ravens' play-off hopes, whereas Josh Allen all-but finished the Cincinnati Bengals' chances. At the same time, the Houston defense presented a massive problem and could have finished the Chiefs' season earlier than ever in the Patrick Mahomes era.

The Breakdown: Divisional Showdowns Exceed the Anticipation

Three massive rivalry games delivered.

Seasoned quarterback Rodgers, competing with a fractured wrist, led his squad to a tough 27-22 success in on the road. The future Hall of Famer recorded his first rushing touchdown in almost three seasons, however it was his deep throws to his star wideout that proved to be the difference.

The Ravens' quarterback was off rhythm as Baltimore missed key chances—though they were angry by a fourth-quarter touchdown being nullified. These teams are scheduled to face off again on the final day of the season.

In another, the oldest rivalry in the NFL witnessed a thrilling encounter. Despite scoring bombs, an worn-out defensive unit had to stop another late-game comeback from the opposing rookie QB in the frigid conditions.

This outcome gave one side a narrow advantage in their NFC North, while the losers dropped from the NFC's number one seed all the way to seventh.

Analysis: What Has Gone Awry for the Chiefs?

Statistical models give the Chiefs only a fifteen percent chance of making the play-offs. In all likelihood, this could be the first missed post-season for franchise QB Mahomes—and the first for the franchise in a ten years.

During Mahomes' seven complete seasons as a starter, he has reached 7 conference championship games and 5 Super Bowls. That means the team has competed in nearly each possible contest throughout his time.

So, the causes for the current failure are clear and were highlighted during the recent loss. Injuries ravaged an already questionable O-line, with multiple key players out.

Despite that, the quarterback gave his squad a fighting chance, however failed field goals and critical dropped passes—including on a decisive fourth down attempt—sealed their downfall.

Spotlight: Could the Super Bowl Be Heading for the West?

Two top teams from the western divisions are making compelling arguments for Super Bowl favorites.

One team, leading their conference, won the most recent Super Bowl played at February's venue. They are built on a dominant defense that tops the league in quarterback takedowns and wins through grinding, long drives.

The second contender, atop the other conference, showcased an dynamic offence capable of scoring from any situation. They boast a two-headed running attack to pair with an exceptional passing game.

The question would be whether the potent offense could solve the relentless pressure of the elite defensive unit—what would be a must-watch potential matchup.

Talking Point: A Star Tight End Considering Retirement?

Amid the aftermath from the Kansas City's loss, comments from Patrick Mahomes about his star teammate fueled rumors about a possible departure.

Listening to Mahomes state, "each year... I try to appreciate because you never know" certainly sounded like the QB was bracing for the veteran to hang up his cleats.

"He will have the choice to do what he wants to do following this season," he added. If the year ends prematurely for the team, the 3x Super Bowl veteran might decide to walk away.

Looking Ahead: Buffalo vs. New England Headlines the Upcoming Slate

The Bills' quarterback did it all again for his team in a wintry win. He threw three scores and ran for another, responsible for a remarkable portion of his offense's overall scores this season.

He is the only quarterback in NFL annals with 3,000 passing yards, 20 TD throws and 10 rushing scores in 3 straight seasons.

Next, he tries to carry the Bills on his shoulders once more as they try to chase down their division foes, the Patriots—and, that's precisely who they play next.

Key Upcoming Week Games:

• Bills @ Patriots
• Detroit 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 scoring play of the season—kick-started a scoring blitz for one offense.
• A prolific wide receiver caught 2 scores and remains on course for a historic 2,000-yard receiving.
• A dominant pass rusher recorded his twentieth sack of the campaign, closing in of the all-time record.
• An international kicker played a key role for his team in a upset victory in soggy conditions.
• A team that was shutout one week responded with a shutout of its own the following week.
• A struggling franchise watched its star quarterback come back from injury, only to exit the contest again with a related ailment.