The Chargers’ special teams proved costly in a 20-16 loss to the Texans. Cameron Dicker endured the worst game of his career, while JK Scott’s inconsistent punting led to short fields, leaving Los Angeles with little margin for error.
The Los Angeles Chargers came up short on Saturday, falling to the Houston Texans 20–16 in a frustrating loss. While several factors contributed to the defeat, special teams played one of the largest roles. For a unit that ranked among the NFL’s best last season, the Chargers’ special teams have regressed noticeably in 2025. With just one game remaining before the playoffs, improvement is no longer optional if the Bolts hope to make a postseason run.
Los Angeles has experienced inconsistency on both sides of the ball throughout the season. The offense has battled significant injuries along the offensive line, while the defense has struggled to find sustained rhythm. In a game that exposed flaws on offense and defense at various points, the last thing the Chargers could afford was a subpar performance from a unit that is supposed to provide stability. Unfortunately, that is exactly what happened.
Chargers kicker Cameron Dicker, who has been outstanding throughout his career, endured the worst game of his professional tenure. Entering Saturday, Dicker held the distinction of being the most accurate kicker in NFL history. Even the most reliable players, however, are not immune to off days. Dicker missed a 32-yard field goal just before halftime, marking the first miss of his career from under 40 yards. The miss was a significant momentum shift in what was already shaping up to be a tightly contested matchup.
Things only worsened in the fourth quarter when Dicker missed an extra point following an Omarion Hampton touchdown. That kick would have pulled the Chargers within a field goal, dramatically changing the late-game dynamic. In close losses, missed points are often magnified, and rightly so. Dicker’s combined four points left on the field loomed large, as they could have potentially tied the game and forced overtime.
Dicker was not the only special teams contributor to struggle. Punter JK Scott also had a rough outing, delivering several erratic punts that consistently gave the Texans short fields. This has been an issue at times throughout the season, particularly with punts sailing out of bounds. Scott has never been known as a booming distance punter, instead prioritizing hang time to limit return opportunities. That approach, however, becomes ineffective when punts are netting barely 30 yards, putting unnecessary pressure on the defense.
As the Chargers prepare for the playoffs, special teams must return to being a strength rather than a liability. Close games in January are often decided by field position and missed opportunities, and Saturday served as a clear warning. If Los Angeles hopes to make noise in the postseason, cleaner execution in the kicking game will be essential.