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Every matchup counts down the stretch, with several massive results in the fourteenth week that may settle play-off positions by the conclusion of the year.

A 42-year-old Aaron Rodgers struck a major blow to Lamar Jackson's play-off aspirations, whereas Josh Allen virtually ended the Cincinnati Bengals' chances. At the same time, the Houston Texans defense presented a massive problem and could have finished the Chiefs' season earlier than ever in the Mahomes tenure.

The Breakdown: Divisional Deciders Live Up To the Hype

Three critical divisional battles lived up to the hype.

Seasoned signal-caller Rodgers, playing with a fractured wrist, steered his squad to a tough close success in on the road. The future Hall of Famer notched his first rushing score in almost three years, however it was his deep passes to his star wideout that made the difference.

The Ravens' quarterback was out of kilter as Baltimore failed to capitalize on crucial opportunities—though they were angry by a fourth-quarter touchdown being overturned. The two teams are scheduled to face off again on the final weekend of the regular season.

Elsewhere, the longest-running feud in the league saw a thrilling contest. Even with touchdown deep passes, an exhausted defensive unit had to thwart another fourth-quarter comeback from the visiting rookie QB in the frigid weather.

This result gave one side a slender lead in their division, while the losers fell from the NFC's top spot down to seventh.

In-Depth Look: What Has Gone Wrong for the Kansas City Chiefs?

Statistical models give the Kansas City only a fifteen percent probability of reaching the play-offs. In all likelihood, this could be the first missed post-season for star quarterback Patrick Mahomes—and the first such for the franchise in a decade.

In Mahomes' 7 full years as a starter, he has advanced to seven conference championship games and five Super Bowls. This means the club has competed in almost every available contest during his time.

Therefore, the causes for the current struggles are apparent and were summed up during the recent defeat. Absences decimated an already struggling offensive line, with multiple key players out.

Even then, the quarterback provided his squad a chance, but failed field goals and crucial dropped passes—such as on a pivotal fourth down play—confirmed their fate.

In Focus: Is the Super Bowl Be Destined for the West?

Two top teams from the West Coast divisions are building compelling cases for Super Bowl favorites.

One squad, atop their conference, claimed the last title played at February's stadium. They are constructed on a dominant defense that leads the NFL in sacks and victories through methodical, time-consuming possessions.

The other contender, leading the NFC, showcased an high-powered offence capable of putting points on the board from anywhere. They boast a formidable running attack to complement an elite aerial game.

The question would be if the high-flying offence could solve the smothering pressure of the elite defense—what would be a fascinating potential matchup.

Talking Point: Travis Kelce Considering Retirement?

Amid the fallout from the Chiefs' loss, remarks from Patrick Mahomes about his star teammate fueled talk about a possible departure.

Listening to him say, "each season... I try to cherish because you never know" definitely seemed like he was preparing for the 36-year-old to hang up his cleats.

"He will have the option to do what he chooses to do following this season," he added. Should the year ends early for the Chiefs, the three-time champion winner might decide to retire.

Preview: Buffalo vs. New England Highlights the Upcoming Slate

Josh Allen put on a show again for Buffalo in a wintry win. Allen threw three scores and ran for another, responsible for a remarkable percentage of his offense's total scores this year.

Allen is the only quarterback in league annals with 3,000 passing yards, 20 TD throws and 10 rushing touchdowns in three straight seasons.

Next, he tries to carry the team on his back once more as they aim to catch their AFC East rivals, the Patriots—coincidentally, they are exactly who they face next.

Key Upcoming Week Games:

• Buffalo Bills @ New England Patriots
• Lions @ Rams
• Green Bay Packers @ Denver Broncos
• Chargers @ Chiefs

This Week's Stats, Records & Notes

• A kick-off return for a 100-yard score—the biggest play of the season—sparked a scoring blitz for one offense.
• A prolific receiver caught 2 scores and remains on course for a record-breaking 2,000-yard receiving.
• A dominant defensive end notched his 20th sack of the season, moving within reach of the all-time record.
• An overseas kicker played a key role for his squad in a surprise win in soggy weather.
• A offense that was shutout one week responded with a shutout of its own the next.
• A struggling team saw its franchise QB come back from injury, only to exit the contest once more with a similar ailment.