The Buffalo Bills' playoff hopes hang in the balance after a crucial win against the Chiefs

The Buffalo Bills needed to win. A loss all but eliminates them from playoff contention and the calls for Coach McDermott's firing would only intensify. Instead, the team did just enough to pull out the victory against the Kansas City Chiefs and keep their playoff hopes well intact. Their chances of making the playoffs rose to 39% after the win and the day's results.

Are there still some things to clean up, yes. Was there some questionable playcalling, perhaps? But at the end of the day, getting the win is all that matters. Getting a win in the conference, against the Kansas City Chiefs is a huge win in so many ways and is the sort of win that can propel this team the rest of the way, as they continue their fight for a playoff spot.

This isn't the same Chiefs team we've seen in past seasons, but they are still one of the top teams in the league and even though the Bills didn't move up the playoff seeding, they still sit at 11th, the gap has closed and now we have six teams sitting at 7 - 6, vying for playoff spots. I'm looking forward to putting together this week's AFC power rankings too. I think they just might move up from last week's rankings.

This game certainly had the feel of a playoff game and for the Bills, it was just that. While it hurts the Chiefs, they still sit at 8 - 5 and first place in the AFC West. However, with the Broncos winning again, the Chiefs hold only a one-game lead over the Broncos. But I'll break down the playoff picture later this week, after the Dolphins game but for now, let's take a look at my five thoughts on this Bills win.