Despite the game being at NRG Stadium in Houston, the Chargers are three-point favorites this weekend against the Texans. Jim Harbaugh has his squad playing some of the best football of the season.
It’s the first time Los Angeles takes the field in the playoffs since the epic collapse against the Jaguars back in 2022.
Here are some bold predictions in the Chargers-Texans AFC playoff tilt on Saturday:
Teams combine for 6+ sacks
There are lethal pass rushers on each side’s defense. Both teams were top-six in the NFL in sacks this season, so this isn’t even that bold of a prediction. Furthermore, both offensive lines are vulnerable. While there are elite tackles on both teams, the Texans allowed 54 sacks, tied for third-most in the NFL. The Chargers still had their flaws as well, particularly on the interior portion of their line, as they gave up 44 sacks. Expect guys like Khalil Mack and Will Anderson Jr. to wreck havoc on multiple instances this weekend.
Quentin Johnston goes for 70+ yards again
Texans Pro Bowl corner Derek Stingley Jr. will more than likely shadow Ladd McConkey on Saturday. As a result, that should open the field up for other Chargers playmakers. Johnston had a career day in Week 18 with 13 catches for 186 yards. He’s been nursing a thigh injury throughout the week, so his status for the game is something to keep an eye on. Assuming he plays, he should be in line for another big day.
Justin Herbert throws an INT
Across 503 pass attempts this year, Herbert miraculously threw just three interceptions. That’s an outstanding number, but something has to give this weekend. The Texans defense snagged 19 interceptions this season, the second-most in the NFL. Houston has two secondary members with five interceptions each and playmakers all over the defense. With limited weapons at wideout, Herbert gets overly aggressive and makes an uncharacteristic mistake.