One prediction defies expectations, favoring the Chargers over the Patriots. Discover the surprising rationale behind this bold forecast for Sunday's showdown.
The Los Angeles Chargers are big underdogs on Sunday night. They face star quarterback Drake Maye and the New England Patriots.
Most predictions seem to be leaning toward the Patriots winning the game, but Gennaro Filice of NFL.com has other thoughts. Filice has the Chargers winning the game, 23-20. He shared his thoughts on the game.
"Because New England lacks the edge rush to exploit Los Angeles' fully exposed Achilles' heel. The Chargers have suffered devastating carnage at offensive tackle this season, inherently subjecting Justin Herbert to weekly beatings and a career-high 54 sacks taken. It's the thing that keeps me from buying the Bolts as true Super Bowl contenders: Eventually, my thinking goes, they'll run into some QB hunters who'll rock Herbert and wreck an elimination game. I still suspect that ultimately will be the case, with prolific pass-rushing teams like Denver and Houston lurking in the AFC field. But in Round 1, L.A. draws New England, which finished the regular season tied for 22nd in sacks. ...
I'm just not sure this defense -- which has been dealing with additional injuries to key figures like LB Robert Spillane -- has the horses to terrorize Herbert. On the other hand, the Chargers' D appears pretty well-equipped to keep a lid on Drake Maye. The second-year pro has been wildly efficient as a deep passer, but Jesse Minter's unit typically limits downfield gains. All in all, I just don't love this matchup for the resurgent Pats."
Miami Dolphins quarterback Zach Wilson (0) throws a pass against New England Patriots defensive tackle Leonard Taylor III (93) during the fourth quarter at Gillette Stadium. Brian Fluharty-Imagn ImagesThe Patriots have been the better team this season, but experience is on the other side of the field. The Chargers, though they have fallen short, may be hardened to postseason pressure after character building playoff disappointment. The young Patriots, including Drake Maye, have not had the adrenaline-filled pressure of several postseason matchups.
The experience edge certainly stands with Justin Herbert at quarterback, though some question whether or not he can win the big game. Others question Herbert's toughness, but the Chargers quarterback's leadership has not wavered in 2025.
Mike Vrabel has certainly done an outstanding job in bringing New England quickly back to relevance. His attention to detail is certainly Bill Belichick-trained if not on the same level as his former head coach. That said, Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh knows what he's doing as well, having had success with the San Francisco 49ers in a prior stint in the NFL.
We'll agree with Filice on this one. Give us the Chargers by four points, 24-20.