Jim Harbaugh wasted no time making his mark in Los Angeles, transforming the Chargers into a playoff team in his first season as head coach. Under Harbaugh’s leadership, the Chargers wrapped up the 2024 regular season with an impressive 11-6 record, securing second place in the competitive AFC West. But should we be surprised by this quick turnaround? Harbaugh’s track record speaks for itself, as he has consistently elevated teams with his ability to implement a winning culture and maximize player potential.
Their wild-card opponent, the Houston Texans, is no strangers to remarkable comebacks. After one of the most dramatic turnarounds in NFL history during the 2023 season, the Texans have returned to the playoff stage for a second straight year. However, the buzz surrounding them this time isn’t quite as electric. Last season, the Texans captivated fans by clinching the AFC South title and hosting a playoff game for the first time since 2019, a feat spearheaded by then-rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud.
While Houston achieved key milestones again this season—winning the division title and earning a postseason berth—the lofty expectations of becoming a legitimate Super Bowl contender remain just out of reach. Regular season inconsistencies and significant injuries to key players suggest the Texans may still be a year away from entering the upper echelon of the AFC. In last year’s playoff opener, Houston stunned the Cleveland Browns with a dominant 45-14 victory at home. The question is whether they can replicate that success against a disciplined and rejuvenated Chargers team.
Here’s an in-depth preview of Saturday’s clash between the Los Angeles Chargers and the Houston Texans.
Chargers Scouting Report
Head Coach: Jim Harbaugh
Quarterback: Justin Herbert
Record: 11-6 (2nd in AFC West)
The Los Angeles Chargers are not defined by flashiness but by efficiency and effectiveness under head coach Jim Harbaugh. Harbaugh’s ability to maximize his players’ potential has translated into notable improvements across the roster, with quarterback Justin Herbert being the most significant beneficiary. Once prone to costly mistakes, Herbert refined his game under Harbaugh’s guidance, showcasing a more disciplined and calculated approach in 2024.
Statistically, Herbert ranked ninth in passing yards (3,870), 12th in touchdowns (23), and committed just three interceptions over the course of the regular season. This starkly contrasted to prior seasons, where turnovers hindered his growth as a premier NFL passer. Running back J.K. Dobbins also experienced a resurgence after consecutive injury-plagued seasons with the Ravens. Staying healthy for most of 2024, Dobbins contributed 905 rushing yards and nine touchdowns, proving a dependable option in the Chargers’ offensive arsenal.
The departure of veteran wide receivers Mike Williams and Keenan Allen raised concerns about the team’s passing game. However, 2024 first-round pick Ladd McConkey emerged as the primary target, delivering a standout rookie campaign with 82 receptions for 1,149 yards and seven touchdowns. McConkey’s performance exceeded expectations and broke Keenan Allen’s rookie records set in 2013, solidifying his role as a cornerstone of the Chargers’ offense.
The Chargers made significant strides on defense, shedding the inconsistencies that plagued them in prior seasons. Anchored by veteran pass rushers Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack, the unit finished the season ranked first in points allowed per game (17.7), 11th in total defense (324.4 yards per game), and seventh in passing defense (206.9 yards per game). Linebacker Tuli Tuipulotu led the team with 8.5 sacks, while Daiyan Henley recorded 147 tackles. Under the direction of first-year defensive coordinator Jessie Minter, the Chargers’ defense has undergone a remarkable transformation from 2023, when it ranked 23rd in points allowed, 27th in rushing defense, and 21st in passing defense. The improvements reflect a cohesive, disciplined unit that complements the team’s offensive production.
Texans Scouting Report
Head Coach: DeMeco Ryans
Quarterback: C.J. Stroud
Record: 10-7 (1St in AFC South)
Expectations for the Houston Texans soared after a strong finish to the 2023 season, which saw them claim the AFC South title behind rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud. Stroud’s record-breaking debut campaign set a high bar, solidifying him as the centerpiece of the Texans’ rebuild. Entering 2024 with Stroud still on a cost-effective rookie contract, the Texans front office aggressively added talent to build a roster capable of contending in the AFC. Notable acquisitions included Stefon Diggs, Danielle Hunter, Denico Autry, Azeez Al-Shaair, and Joe Mixon, creating anticipation for a potential deep playoff run.
However, the team’s high hopes were tempered by injuries that disrupted their progress. Diggs and second-year receiver Nathaniel Dell suffered season-ending injuries, depleting the team’s receiving corps. Joe Mixon provided impactful performances when healthy but was frequently sidelined with nagging injuries. The team’s inability to field a consistent lineup hindered their offensive output and overall performance.
C.J. Stroud, while still showing promise, faced the challenges of a sophomore slump. His numbers dipped from an impressive rookie year—4,108 passing yards, 23 touchdowns, and five interceptions—to a more modest 3,727 passing yards, 20 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions in 2024. These growing pains were compounded by ineffective offensive line play, limiting his ability to replicate his debut success.
Despite these hurdles, the Texans secured their second consecutive AFC South title. While not meeting the lofty expectations set at the start of the season, the team demonstrated resilience and remained competitive. Stroud’s development and improved roster health and stability will be key factors in determining how quickly Houston can transition from divisional winners to legitimate Super Bowl contenders.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Justin Herbert vs. Texans Secondary
Herbert’s ability to distribute the ball to weapons like McConkey and fellow wideout Quentin Johnston will test Houston’s banged-up secondary. - C.J. Stroud vs. Chargers Pass Rush
The Chargers’ dynamic duo of Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack will look to make life difficult for Stroud. Houston’s offensive line must hold up under pressure to give their young quarterback a chance. - Chargers Rushing Attack vs. Texans Front Seven
J.K. Dobbins has been critical to Los Angeles’ success. If Houston’s defense can limit his production, they could force the Chargers into a one-dimensional attack. - Special Teams Execution
Both teams rank near the middle of the pack in special teams performance. A big play in the kicking or return game could swing momentum.
X-Factors
- Chargers: Ladd McConkey – The rookie wideout has been a game-changer and will be key to stretching the Texans’ defense.
- Texans: Danielle Hunter – His ability to disrupt Herbert’s timing and pressure the pocket could make a significant difference.
Betting Trends and Analysis
On paper, the Chargers are the better team. They’ve been more efficient offensively and are just as strong defensively as the Texans. Additionally, Los Angeles has performed well against lower-seeded playoff teams, making them a slight favorite despite being on the road.
However, playoff games, particularly early Saturday contests, often defy expectations. Houston’s defense can keep the game close, and divisional familiarity could work in their favor.
Score Prediction
The Texans won’t surprise anyone in the postseason this time, but I expect a close outing with Los Angeles this Sunday. Be prepared for a close, low-scoring affair in Houston, but the Chargers will advance to the divisional round.
Chargers 24, Texans 21
Show Your Support
Support the growth of Sports View 360’s platform by heading to Fanatics.com and purchasing officially licensed gear from the National Football League. Each purchase made through the text link below goes into the funding of the Sports View 360 brand. To proceed, click the link below and enjoy shopping at Fanatics.
NFL Fan Gear at Fanatics
