The Chargers face a tough test against Houston’s elite defense in a pivotal Week 17 matchup. Establishing the run, spreading the ball beyond Ladd McConkey, and limiting turnovers will be key if Justin Herbert and the offense want to control their playoff destiny.
The Los Angeles Chargers face a crucial Week 17 matchup against the Houston Texans in a game that could go a long way toward determining their playoff seeding. With a win over the Texans on Saturday, the Bolts would control their own destiny in the AFC West. A loss, however, could leave them staring at a seventh seed and a difficult road through the postseason.
The biggest challenge for the Chargers will come on offense. The Houston Texans defense is among the best units in the NFL, ranking first in yards per game allowed and second in turnovers forced. Quarterback Justin Herbert saw firsthand just how ferocious this defense can be when he threw four interceptions in last season’s Wild Card loss to Houston.
With a fiery Texans defense coming into SoFi Stadium, how can Herbert and the Chargers offense navigate their way to a victory?
Offensive coordinator Greg Roman cooked up an excellent game plan last weekend against the Dallas Cowboys. While Dallas’ defense does not compare to Houston’s, Roman showed he is capable of designing a balanced, efficient attack that keeps Herbert upright and the offense on schedule. That approach will be critical against a Texans unit that thrives on forcing long-yardage situations and capitalizing on mistakes.
Arguably the biggest point of emphasis for the Chargers on Saturday must be establishing the running game. One of the major differences from last season’s playoff matchup is the addition of rookie running back Omarion Hampton. Hampton is nearing full strength after returning from injury, and his downhill running style could be exactly what the Chargers need to stay ahead of the chains. A consistent rushing attack would also slow Houston’s pass rush and limit the number of obvious passing downs Herbert faces.
In January’s Wild Card game, the Chargers’ passing offense was far too one-dimensional. Wide receiver Ladd McConkey was sensational, hauling in nine catches for 197 yards and a touchdown. The problem was the lack of production elsewhere. Outside of McConkey, no other Chargers receiver eclipsed 16 receiving yards, allowing the Texans to key in on Herbert’s favorite target.
General manager Joe Hortiz made it a priority this offseason to address that issue. Bringing back Keenan Allen while adding rookies Omarion Hampton and Oronde Gadsden has given Herbert more reliable options at every level of the field. Even with a banged-up offensive line, Herbert should be able to spread the ball around, forcing Houston’s defense to defend the entire field rather than locking in on one player.
Another key will be getting the ball out of Herbert’s hands quickly. Short passes, play-action and designed rollouts can neutralize Houston’s aggressive front and reduce turnover opportunities. Limiting mistakes is essential; giving the Texans extra possessions is a recipe for disaster.
If the Chargers can run the ball effectively, distribute targets evenly and protect Herbert from obvious passing situations, they can move the ball against even an elite Texans defense. It won’t be easy, but with a balanced game plan and disciplined execution, the Chargers have a clear path to scoring enough points to secure a pivotal late-season victory.