Which NFL teams are surprising in Week 14?

Teams like the Bengals, Bills, and Bears are exceeding expectations in Week 14, altering the playoff picture.

Can the Kansas City Chiefs miss the NFL playoffs?

Yes, the Chiefs are facing must-win December games due to struggles in one-score contests, putting their playoff streak at risk.

Who is leading the AFC North in December?

The AFC North race is unexpectedly tight, with teams like the Bengals surprisingly in contention despite earlier challenges.

Home / Sports / NFL's Wild Week 14: Surprises Abound!

NFL's Wild Week 14: Surprises Abound!

5 Dec, 2025

•

Summary

Several NFL teams defy expectations as December begins.
AFC North race features surprising contenders.
Playoff picture uncertainty dominates Week 14 matchups.

Week 14 marks a significant turn in the NFL season, with surprising team performances reshaping the playoff landscape. The AFC North, in particular, showcases unexpected contenders, with teams like the Bengals defying low expectations due to quarterback injuries and defensive struggles. Meanwhile, perennial powerhouses like the Bills find themselves in unfamiliar territory, potentially heading towards a wildcard berth.

The AFC West also presents a shock, as the dominant Chiefs face a must-win situation in December, a stark contrast to their usual conference championship appearances. This season's struggles in close games have put their playoff streak in jeopardy, forcing them to fight for every victory against teams like the Texans.

In the NFC, the Chicago Bears have emerged as a surprising division leader, exceeding preseason predictions and challenging traditional powers like the Lions and Packers. This unexpected rise underscores the parity and unpredictability gripping the league as teams vie for postseason contention.