Patrick Mahomes’s magic made up for his errors against the Broncos, Brock Purdy took control of the 49ers’ offense, and receiver Jameson Williams gave the Lions a major boost to beat the Vikings.
True contenders are seemingly bulldozing their way to the N.F.L. postseason, but no game in the final weeks of the regular season is an easy win.
The Texans surprisingly pushed the Cowboys to the wire by picking on a sore spot, and the Lions’ slow climb to efficacy gained new momentum with a win over the Vikings. The Giants, however, may be stalling out after a promising start.
Even the 49ers’ throttling of the Buccaneers required a stunning offensive performance, and the Broncos played Kansas City closer than expected after Patrick Mahomes perhaps got too crafty with his throws.