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Every matchup counts from here on in, with several massive outcomes in the fourteenth week that could decide postseason positions by the conclusion of the season.

A 42-year Aaron Rodgers struck a major setback to Lamar Jackson's play-off aspirations, while Josh Allen all-but finished the Cincinnati Bengals' chances. At the same time, the Houston defence posed a massive problem and could have finished the Kansas City Chiefs campaign sooner than ever before in the Mahomes tenure.

The Breakdown: Divisional Deciders Exceed the Expectations

A trio of critical rivalry games did not disappoint.

Veteran signal-caller Rodgers, playing with a injured wrist, led his team to a tough close win in on the road. The future Hall of Famer scored his first rushing touchdown in almost three years, however it was his long throws to his top wideout that proved to be the difference.

Lamar Jackson seemed off rhythm as his team missed key chances—although they were frustrated by a late touchdown being overturned. These teams are scheduled to face off again on the last day of the regular season.

In another, the longest-running feud in the league saw a epic contest. Even with scoring bombs, an worn-out defensive unit had to stop another late-game rally from the opposing rookie quarterback in the freezing conditions.

The result handed one side a narrow advantage in their division, whereas the defeated team dropped from the NFC's number one seed down to outside the playoff picture.

Analysis: Where Has It Gone Wrong for the Kansas City Chiefs?

Statistical models give the Chiefs only a 15% probability of making the postseason. Realistically, this will be the first missed playoffs for star quarterback Patrick Mahomes—and the first such for the organization in a decade.

During his seven full years as a starter, he has advanced to 7 AFC Championship contests and 5 championship games. That means the club has competed in nearly each available game throughout his time.

So, the reasons for this year's failure are evident and were summed up during Sunday's loss. Absences ravaged an already dodgy O-line, with multiple key players missing.

Despite that, the quarterback gave his team a chance, however failed field goals and critical dropped passes—including on a pivotal fourth-down attempt—confirmed their downfall.

Spotlight: Could the Lombardi Trophy Be Heading for the West?

Two powerhouse contenders from the West Coast conferences are building compelling arguments for Super Bowl favorites.

One team, leading their the AFC, won the last Super Bowl played at this year's venue. They are constructed on a stifling defense that leads the league in sacks and victories through methodical, long possessions.

The other team, leading the other conference, demonstrated an explosive offence capable of scoring from anywhere. They feature a formidable running game to pair with an elite aerial attack.

The question could be if the potent offense could withstand the smothering pressure of the elite defense—what would be a must-watch playoff showdown.

Discussion: Travis Kelce Considering Calling It Quits?

Among the aftermath from the Kansas City's defeat, comments from the quarterback about his longtime teammate sparked speculation about a possible retirement.

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

"The tight end will have the choice to do what he wants to do after this campaign," he continued. If the year ends prematurely for the Chiefs, the 3x champion veteran might choose to walk away.

Preview: Buffalo vs. New England Headlines Week 15

Josh Allen did it all once more for Buffalo in a snowy win. Allen threw three touchdowns and rushed for one more, accounting for a staggering percentage of his offense's total touchdowns this year.

He is the first player in NFL history with 3,000 passing yards, twenty touchdown throws and ten rushing touchdowns in three consecutive seasons.

Next, he tries to carry the team on his back again as they aim to catch their AFC East foes, the New England Patriots—coincidentally, they are precisely who they face this coming Sunday.

Key Week 15 Games:

• Buffalo Bills @ Patriots
• Lions @ Rams
• Packers @ Denver Broncos
• Chargers @ Kansas City Chiefs

Week 14 Stats, Records & Notes

• A kick-off return for a 100-yard score—the longest play of the season—sparked a second-half onslaught for one offense.
• A star wide receiver scored 2 touchdowns and remains on course for a record-breaking 2,000-yard receiving.
• A feared defensive end recorded his 20th sack of the season, closing in of the single-season mark.
• An international kicker helped his squad in a upset victory in rainy conditions.
• A team that was held scoreless one week responded with a shutout of its own the following week.
• A reeling team watched its star QB come back from injury, only to leave the contest again with a related ailment.