The Athletic is providing live coverage of NFL Week 14 games.
The final month of the NFL regular season is here, marking a crucial time for teams.
With divisional titles still undecided and playoff positions up in the air, December is shaping up to be one of the most competitive months in recent memory.
This week’s action began with a Thursday night face-off between the Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys, where the Lions significantly boosted their playoff chances while the Cowboys faced challenges. The excitement continues Sunday with 12 more games, including seven matchups between divisional rivals.
The week will wrap up with a Monday night clash featuring the Philadelphia Eagles, looking to bounce back from last week’s defeat against Dallas, and the Los Angeles Chargers, who share an 8-4 record and hope to catch up with the AFC West-leading Denver Broncos.
AFC North Struggles
This year has been tough for AFC North teams. The Pittsburgh Steelers started strong but have struggled lately, losing five of their last seven games. Meanwhile, the Baltimore Ravens managed to ride a five-game winning streak, though they recently stumbled against the Bengals. This Sunday, the 6-6 Steelers and Ravens will meet in Baltimore with the division lead on the line.
Showdown of Urgency
Bills’ Josh Allen and Bengals’ Joe Burrow find themselves in precarious positions. A 3-2 record in November has pushed the Buffalo Bills to seventh in the AFC, while Burrow’s return from injury hasn’t yet stabilized a struggling Bengals defense. Both teams are desperate for a win this Sunday in Buffalo to bolster their playoff chances.
AFC South Battle
Unexpectedly, the Indianapolis Colts and Jacksonville Jaguars are both in the playoff race. After leading the AFC South for most of the season, Colts have slipped behind the Jaguars, who are riding a three-game win streak. Their Sunday matchup in Jacksonville is pivotal for division standings as both teams are 8-4.
Rivalry Renewed
The long-standing rivalry between the Bears and Packers has diminished in recent years, but this Sunday’s game carries significant implications. With the Chicago Bears at 9-3 and leading the NFC North, they can strengthen their position against the Packers, who are close behind with an 8-3-1 record. The stakes are high, making for an exciting clash between these historic foes.
High Stakes in KC
The Chiefs and Texans entered the season with playoff aspirations, yet both teams are now in urgent situations heading into their Sunday night game at Arrowhead Stadium. The Chiefs sit at 6-6, having lost three of their last four games, while the Texans are trending upwards, winning four straight. The playoff atmosphere will be palpable as both teams vie to remain in contention.
