Week 14 of the 2024 NFL season was filled with bold decisions, unexpected upsets, and more teams officially eliminated from playoff contention. TheNew York Giantsare the only NFC team with no chance to extend their season, while the AFC sees six teams—the Cleveland Browns, Jacksonville Jaguars, New York Jets, Tennessee Titans, New England Patriots, and Las Vegas Raiders—out of the running.
The Jets’ playoff drought extended to 14 seasons, the longest active streak across all major sports leagues, including the NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, and WNBA. The Carolina Panthers gave the Philadelphia Eagles a tough battle, with the game coming down to the wire. Another nail-biter saw the New Orleans Saints edge the Giants 14-11, capped by a crucial blocked field goal. Quarterback Mac Jones led the Jaguars to a victory over the Titans, though the win could hurt them in the long run due to its impact on their draft position
One of the week’s most thrilling moments came from the Buffalo Bills’ seven-game win streak, which ended with a loss to the Los Angeles Rams in a game full of fireworks. With 86 total points, 902 yards, and 12 touchdowns, the game featured Bills quarterback Josh Allen throwing for three touchdowns and rushing for three more—becoming the first player in NFL history to do so. Despite Allen’s historic performance, the Bills fell short 44-42, marking only the second time in NFL history a team with at least six touchdowns and zero turnovers has lost.
In another exciting moment, Eagles running back Saquon Barkley surpassed LeSean McCoy’s franchise record for most rushing yards in a single season with 1,623 yards after rushing for 124 yards in the win over Carolina.
Week 14 also showcased some remarkable catches, including rookie Rome Odunze’s toe-tapping reception and Amari Cooper’s tight-coverage grab from a perfectly placed throw by Josh Allen. Cooper Kupp also made a highlight-worthy catch, securing the ball and a score with some help from his leg.
Kirk Cousins made his return to Minnesota after six seasons with the Vikings, but it wasn’t a warm reception. The fans booed him, and he had a rough day, throwing two interceptions in a 42-21 loss. Meanwhile, Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold had a career-best performance, throwing five touchdowns.
Lastly, the NFL’s “My Cause My Cleats” program allowed players to showcase causes close to their hearts through custom footwear, with Week 14 marking the last opportunity for players to highlight their chosen organizations for the season.