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Every contest matters from here on in, with a number of huge outcomes in week 14 that may settle postseason spots come the conclusion of the campaign.

A 42-year Aaron Rodgers dealt a big blow to the Baltimore Ravens' play-off hopes, whereas Josh Allen virtually ended Joe Burrow's chances. At the same time, the Houston Texans defence presented a significant challenge and may have finished the Kansas City Chiefs campaign sooner than ever in the Patrick Mahomes era.

Divisional Analysis: Divisional Showdowns Live Up To the Expectations

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

Seasoned quarterback Rodgers, competing with a fractured wrist, steered his team to a gritty close victory in Baltimore. The future Hall of Famer notched his first rushing score in almost three seasons, however it was his deep passes to his star wideout that made the difference.

The Ravens' quarterback was off rhythm as his team failed to capitalize on crucial chances—though they were frustrated by a late touchdown being chalked off. The two teams will meet once more on the last day of the regular season.

In another, the oldest rivalry in the league witnessed a thrilling encounter. Even with scoring deep passes, an worn-out defense had to stop another late-game rally from the opposing rookie quarterback in the freezing weather.

The result gave one side a narrow advantage in their NFC North, while the losers plummeted from the NFC's top spot all the way to outside the playoff picture.

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

Statistical models give the Kansas City only a 15% probability of making the postseason. In all likelihood, this will be the initial missed post-season for franchise QB Mahomes—and the first such for the franchise in a decade.

In Mahomes' seven full seasons as a starter, he has advanced to seven AFC Championship games and five Super Bowls. This indicates the club has played nearly every possible contest during his tenure.

So, the reasons for the current struggles are evident and were summed up during Sunday's defeat. Absences decimated an already struggling O-line, with multiple starters out.

Even then, the quarterback gave his squad a chance, but failed kicks and costly dropped passes—including on a key fourth-down play—sealed their downfall.

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

Two top teams from the West Coast divisions are making strong arguments for championship favorites.

One squad, leading their the AFC, claimed the most recent title played at February's stadium. They are constructed on a dominant defense that tops the league in quarterback takedowns and wins through methodical, time-consuming possessions.

The other contender, atop the other conference, showcased an explosive offence capable of putting points on the board from anywhere. They feature a formidable running game to pair with an exceptional passing attack.

A key matchup could be whether the high-flying offence could withstand the smothering pass rush of the elite defense—what would be a must-watch potential showdown.

Discussion: Travis Kelce Pondering Retirement?

Amid the aftermath from the Chiefs' defeat, remarks from the quarterback about his star teammate sparked talk about a potential retirement.

Listening to him say, "every year... I try to appreciate since you never know" definitely seemed like he was preparing for the veteran to call it a day.

"The tight end will have the choice to do what he wants to do after this season," he continued. Should the season concludes prematurely for the Chiefs, the three-time champion veteran might decide to retire.

Looking Ahead: Bills vs. Patriots Highlights the Upcoming Slate

Josh Allen did it all once more for his team in a snowy victory. Allen passed for 3 touchdowns and rushed for one more, accounting for a remarkable portion of his offense's overall scores this year.

He is the only quarterback in NFL annals with 3,000 passing yards, twenty touchdown throws and 10 rushing touchdowns in three straight campaigns.

Now, he tries to carry the Bills on his back again as they aim to chase down their AFC East foes, the New England Patriots—and, that's precisely who they face this coming Sunday.

Key Week 15 Games:

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

Week 14 Statistical Highlights

• A kick-off return for a 100-yard touchdown—the longest scoring play of the year—kick-started a second-half onslaught for one team.
• A star wide receiver caught 2 touchdowns and is still on course for a historic 2,000-yard receiving.
• A dominant defensive end recorded his twentieth QB sack of the season, closing in of the all-time mark.
• An overseas kicker played a key role for his team in a upset win in soggy weather.
• A team that was held scoreless one week responded with a shutout of its own the following week.
• A reeling team saw its star QB come back from an elbow issue, only to leave the contest again with a related injury.