This Christmas, the NFL is gifting fans with two crucial AFC matchups, both streaming exclusively on Netflix. The Kansas City Chiefs face the Pittsburgh Steelers, and the Baltimore Ravens clash with the Houston Texans, presenting a significant test for the streaming platform.

Following streaming difficulties during the Jake Paul-Mike Tyson fight, Netflix is under intense scrutiny to deliver a seamless viewing experience. This marks the first NFL game streamed solely on Netflix, as part of a three-year agreement for annual Christmas Day broadcasts.

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes is introduced prior to a game against the Houston Texans at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. (Denny Medley-Imagn Images)

Netflix's vice president, Brandon Riegg, acknowledged the past technical issues and assured improvements based on lessons learned. The high viewership of the boxing match provided valuable insights for optimizing the streaming infrastructure.

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson takes the field against the Cleveland Browns at Acrisure Stadium. (Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images)

The Chiefs, aiming to secure the AFC's top seed, are coming off a victory against the Texans, with Mahomes performing admirably despite an ankle sprain. A win against the Steelers would lock in the number one seed and a crucial bye week.

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens breaks through the Bengals defense for a touchdown reception at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati on Dec. 1, 2024. (IMAGN)

The Steelers, however, suffered a setback against the Ravens, hampered by their struggles to contain Derrick Henry's rushing performance and a key interception returned for a touchdown. Their game against the Chiefs is critical for their AFC North title hopes, and the potential return of wide receiver George Pickens offers a glimmer of hope.

Baltimore Ravens cornerback Marlon Humphrey returns an interception for a touchdown against the Pittsburgh Steelers at M&T Bank Stadium. (Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images)

The Ravens, vying for the AFC North crown, face the Texans, who are reeling from a loss to the Chiefs and season-ending injuries to key receivers Tank Dell and Stefon Diggs. A Christmas Day win for the Texans would secure a playoff berth, the AFC South title, and a home playoff game.

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson throws against the Pittsburgh Steelers at M&T Bank Stadium. (Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images)

Lamar Jackson, a contender for the MVP award, aims to showcase his skills on the national stage. The Texans-Ravens game will also feature a halftime performance by Beyoncé, adding another layer of complexity to Netflix's streaming challenge.

Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud scrambles against Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Drue Tranquill at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. (Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images)

With all four teams playing their third game in 11 days, fatigue will be a factor. The high stakes, combined with the halftime show, place immense pressure on Netflix to ensure a smooth broadcast.