Shorthanded and resting key starters, the Chargers fell 19-3 to the Broncos in the season finale. Despite offensive struggles, Jesse Minter’s defense stood tall, helping Los Angeles finish 11-6 and enter the playoffs relatively healthy.
The Los Angeles Chargers suffered their first divisional loss of the season, falling to the Denver Broncos 19–3 in the regular-season finale. Resting many of their key starters — most notably franchise quarterback Justin Herbert — the Chargers struggled to generate consistent offense throughout the afternoon. While the final score was lopsided, the game still offered several encouraging takeaways as Los Angeles turns its attention to the postseason.
The contest began largely as expected. Los Angeles was unable to establish any offensive rhythm early, opening the game with a three-and-out on their first possession. Denver took advantage of the field position, moving the ball efficiently down the field. However, Jesse Minter’s defense quickly settled in, tightening up in the red zone and forcing the Broncos to settle for a field goal. Given how shorthanded the Chargers were, holding Denver to three points was an early positive sign.
Momentum swung firmly in Denver’s favor on Los Angeles’ second drive. Backup quarterback Trey Lance attempted to connect with rookie wide receiver KeAndre Lambert-Smith, but the pass deflected off Lambert-Smith’s hands and into the arms of a Broncos defender. The interception was returned 45 yards for a touchdown, extending Denver’s lead and highlighting some of the challenges Herbert has dealt with throughout the season.
From there, the first half turned into a punting duel. Neither offense found sustained success, with both teams struggling to move the ball against disciplined defensive units. Late in the second quarter, Lance finally put together the Chargers’ most productive drive of the day, guiding the offense 51 yards down the field. The drive stalled, but kicker Cameron Dicker converted a 30-yard field goal. The score marked a small rebound for Dicker after a rough outing the previous week and put the Chargers on the board heading into halftime.
Despite trailing, Los Angeles remained competitive thanks largely to its defense. Minter’s unit continued to frustrate rookie quarterback Bo Nix, consistently pressuring him and limiting Denver to field goals throughout the game. Unfortunately, the Chargers’ offense was unable to capitalize. Lance faced relentless pressure behind a depleted offensive line, absorbing several hard hits — much like Herbert has endured all season. One of those sacks resulted in a costly fumble that was recovered by Denver, effectively ending any hopes of a comeback.
The Chargers close the regular season with an 11–6 record, earning the seventh seed in the AFC playoff picture. While the loss itself was disappointing, the primary objective was achieved: keeping Herbert and other key contributors healthy. The defense once again showed the grit and resilience that has defined this team all season. With a playoff matchup against the New England Patriots looming, Los Angeles now turns the page, confident that their best football still lies ahead.