NFL football is back and the Los Angeles Chargers are hungry to take that next step towards being one of the top teams in the league.
With a slate of big-time division clashes and tough showdowns, the Bolts are set up for what looks to be an exciting season. While every game matters, some games just mean more. Here are the top three matchups that fans can look forward to along the Chargers’ quest back to the postseason.
Week 3: Sept. 21 vs. Denver Broncos
This is an early but crucial matchup in the AFC West. After beating the Chiefs in week 1, 27-21, a big-time win against the Broncos would put the Chargers in the driver’s seat of the division.
Denver looks to have found their guy in quarterback Bo Nix and while it’s still early, the Broncos’ defense has been impressive, recording six sacks and two turnovers in week 1. After making a playoff appearance as the No. 7 seed in the AFC, Denver has high expectations in 2025.
Justin Herbert and the Chargers’ offense against Denver’s deep group up front and talented secondary anchored by reigning NFL Defensive Player of The Year, Patrick Surtain will be an exciting matchup to watch.
While the Chargers swept the Broncos last season, both meetings were determined by one score games. In a division that has seen big improvements from several teams, this matchup may prove to be important in terms of the playoff picture and seeding down the line.
Week 14: Dec. 8 vs. Philadelphia Eagles
There is nothing better than a prime-time matchup under the lights. The defending Super Bowl 59 champions Philadelphia Eagles will be in town to take on the Chargers on Monday Night Football.
The Eagles’ exceptional run game, led by last season’s Offensive Player of The Year, Saquon Barkley, will go head-to-head against a Chargers defense that finished as one of the best in the league and allowed the fewest rushing touchdowns last year.
Taking on the reigning Super Bowl champs will be a big test for the Chargers, who are looking to prove that they can be one of the best in the league.
Week 17: Dec. 27 vs. Houston Texans
Last year’s playoff exit is not too far in the distance for the Chargers and motivation for this electric week 17 game won’t be difficult.
The Texans ended Los Angeles’ promising season with a 32-12 win in their wild card meeting. The Chargers had one of their worst outings of the year against Houston, committing four turnovers on offense and allowing over 400 total yards on defense.
Houston has struck gold, drafting C.J. Stroud at quarterback and head coach DeMeco Ryans has completely turned the team around. With Pro Bowlers Danielle Hunter and Will Anderson Jr. on the line, the Chargers’ offensive line is going to be tested.
A late-season showdown that may have big playoff implications is a prime opportunity for the Chargers to build some serious momentum heading into the postseason.
The Chargers’ season will ultimately be defined by how they perform in big games. These three matchups should showcase what this team is made of to fans and the rest of the league.
If Los Angeles is able to answer the call in these crucial games, they’ll set themselves up as true contenders.