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Each contest matters from here on in, with some huge conclusions in the fourteenth week that might determine postseason spots come the end of the year.

A 42-year Aaron Rodgers struck a major blow to the Baltimore Ravens' postseason hopes, whereas Josh Allen all-but ended the Cincinnati Bengals' hopes. At the same time, the Houston defence presented a huge challenge and could have ended the Kansas City Chiefs season earlier than ever in the Mahomes tenure.

Divisional Analysis: Division Deciders Exceed the Hype

Three huge divisional battles delivered.

Veteran signal-caller Aaron Rodgers, competing with a injured wrist, led his squad to a hard-fought close win in on the road. He recorded his first rushing touchdown in almost three years, however it was his long passes to his top wideout that proved to be the difference.

Lamar Jackson was out of sync as his team failed to capitalize on key chances—although they were angry by a late touchdown being nullified. These teams are scheduled to face off once more on the final day of the season.

In another, the longest-running rivalry in the NFL saw a classic encounter. Even with scoring bombs, an exhausted defensive unit had to stop another late-game rally from the visiting rookie QB in the frigid weather.

This outcome handed one side a narrow lead in their division, whereas the losers dropped from the NFC's top spot all the way to outside the playoff picture.

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

Statistical models assign the Chiefs only a fifteen percent chance of reaching the play-offs. In all likelihood, this will be the initial missed post-season for star quarterback Mahomes—and the first for the franchise in a ten years.

In Mahomes' 7 complete seasons as a starting quarterback, he has reached 7 conference championship contests and 5 Super Bowls. That means the team has competed in almost each available contest during his time.

Therefore, the causes for this year's failure are evident and were highlighted during the recent loss. Injuries decimated an already struggling O-line, with several starters out.

Despite that, Mahomes provided his team a fighting chance, however failed field goals and crucial dropped passes—including on a key fourth-down attempt—confirmed their downfall.

Spotlight: Could the Lombardi Trophy Be Destined for the Western US?

A pair of top teams from the western divisions are building strong arguments for championship favorites.

One team, atop their conference, claimed the most recent title played at February's venue. They are built on a dominant defence that leads the NFL in sacks and wins through methodical, long drives.

The second team, leading the NFC, demonstrated an high-powered offence capable of scoring from anywhere. They feature a two-headed ground attack to pair with an exceptional passing game.

The question would be whether the high-flying offence could withstand the relentless pressure of the elite defensive unit—a a fascinating potential showdown.

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

Among the aftermath from the Kansas City's loss, remarks from the quarterback about his star teammate fueled speculation about a potential departure.

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

"He will have the choice to do whatever he chooses to do after this campaign," Mahomes continued. If the year ends early for the team, the 3x Super Bowl veteran could decide to walk away.

Preview: Buffalo vs. New England Highlights the Upcoming Slate

The Bills' quarterback did it all once more for Buffalo in a wintry win. Allen threw three touchdowns and rushed for another, responsible for a remarkable portion of his team's overall touchdowns this year.

Allen is the first player in league history with 3,000 passing yards, 20 touchdown passes and 10 running scores in three straight seasons.

Now, he puts the team on his back again as they try to chase down their division rivals, the New England Patriots—coincidentally, that's precisely who they play this coming Sunday.

Key Week 15 Games:

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

This Week's Stats, Records & Notes

• A kick-off return for a 100-yard touchdown—the biggest scoring play of the season—kick-started a second-half onslaught for one offense.
• A prolific receiver scored two touchdowns and is still tracking for a historic 2,000-yard receiving.
• A feared pass rusher notched his twentieth QB sack of the campaign, closing in of the all-time record.
• An international kicker helped his team in a surprise win in rainy weather.
• A offense that was held scoreless one week responded with a shutout of its own the following week.
• A struggling team saw its franchise quarterback return from injury, only to leave the game again with a similar ailment.