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Every game counts from here on in, with several enormous conclusions in week 14 that might determine postseason spots come the conclusion of the campaign.

A 42-year-old Aaron Rodgers dealt a big blow to Lamar Jackson's postseason aspirations, while the Buffalo Bills quarterback virtually finished Joe Burrow's hopes. At the same time, the Houston Texans defence presented a huge problem and may have ended the Kansas City Chiefs campaign earlier than ever in the Mahomes era.

The Breakdown: Division Showdowns Live Up To the Expectations

A trio of critical division clashes did not disappoint.

Veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers, competing with a fractured wrist, guided his squad to a gritty 27-22 victory in Baltimore. The future Hall of Famer notched his initial running score in almost three years, but it was his long throws to his star wideout that proved to be the deciding factor.

Lamar Jackson seemed off rhythm as Baltimore failed to capitalize on crucial opportunities—although they were left fuming by a late score being overturned. These franchises are scheduled to face off again on the last day of the season.

Elsewhere, the longest-running rivalry in the league saw a classic encounter. Despite scoring bombs, an worn-out defense had to stop another late-game comeback from the opposing rookie QB in the freezing weather.

The result gave one side a slender lead in their NFC North, whereas the losers plummeted from the conference's top spot down to seventh.

Analysis: Where Has It Gone Wrong for the Chiefs?

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

During Mahomes' 7 complete seasons as a starter, he has advanced to 7 AFC Championship contests and 5 championship games. This means the team has competed in almost each available game throughout his time.

So, the causes for the current failure are evident and were summed up during Sunday's loss. Injuries ravaged an already questionable O-line, with several key players missing.

Even then, Mahomes provided his team a chance, however failed kicks and costly dropped passes—such as on a decisive fourth down attempt—sealed their fate.

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

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

One squad, atop their conference, claimed the most recent Super Bowl held at February's venue. They are built on a dominant defense that tops the NFL in quarterback takedowns and victories through methodical, time-consuming possessions.

The other contender, atop the other conference, showcased an dynamic offence capable of scoring from anywhere. They boast a formidable running attack to complement an exceptional passing game.

A key matchup could be if the potent offence can solve the relentless pressure of the top defense—what would be a must-watch potential matchup.

Talking Point: A Star Tight End Considering Calling It Quits?

Amid the aftermath from the Kansas City's loss, remarks from Patrick Mahomes about his star teammate sparked talk about a possible retirement.

Listening to Mahomes state, "every season... I try to cherish because you never know" definitely sounded like the QB was bracing for the 36-year-old to call it a day.

"He will have the choice to do what he chooses to do following this campaign," he added. If the year concludes early 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 once more for his team in a snowy victory. Allen threw three touchdowns and ran for one more, accounting for a staggering percentage of his offense's overall touchdowns this year.

Allen is the first player in NFL history with three thousand pass yards, twenty touchdown passes and ten rushing scores in three straight seasons.

Now, he tries to carry the team on his back once more as they aim to chase down their AFC East foes, the Patriots—and, that's exactly who they face this coming Sunday.

Key Upcoming Week Games:

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

This Week's Stats, Records & Notes

• A kickoff runback for a 100-yard score—the longest scoring play of the year—sparked a scoring blitz for one offense.
• A star wide receiver scored two scores and is still tracking for a record-breaking 2,000-yard season.
• A feared defensive end notched his 20th QB sack of the campaign, closing in of the all-time mark.
• An international placekicker helped his squad in a surprise victory in rainy conditions.
• A offense that was shutout one game bounced back with a clean sheet of its own the following week.
• A reeling team saw its star quarterback come back from an elbow issue, only to exit the contest once more with a similar ailment.