The NFL playoffs will kick off on Saturday's AFC Wild Card matchup between the Los Angeles Chargers (11-6) and Houston Texans (10-7). Kickoff from NRG Stadium in Houston is set for 4:30 p.m. ET, with CBS and Paramount+ bringing you all the action.
How to Watch Los Angeles Chargers vs. Houston Texans:
- Date: Saturday, January 11, 2025
- Time: 4:30 PM ET
- Channel: CBS, Paramount
- Stream: Fubo
What a difference a year—and a coach—makes. The Chargers underwent a major overhaul in the offseason, bringing in Jim Harbaugh to lead the team, and the results speak for themselves. Los Angeles finished the season on a three-game win streak, improving by six wins from last year to an impressive 11-6 record.
L.A. capped off the regular season with a 34-20 win over the Raiders in Week 18. This team is peaking at just the right time.
The Chargers boast the NFL's top-ranked scoring defense, allowing just 17.7 points per game. They've also been opportunistic, forcing 21 turnovers while committing just 9 themselves, a testament to their discipline on both sides of the ball.
Meanwhile, the Texans have had an interesting season, QB C.J. Stroud, who dazzled as a rookie, faced some challenges this season. His numbers dipped, thanks partly to injuries to his top targets: Stefon Diggs, Tank Dell, and Nico Collins all missed time. However, Collins is back and ready to go, giving the Texans a much-needed boost in the passing game.
Prediction: Chargers 27, Texans 20
This game has all the makings of a hard-fought battle, but the Chargers' elite defense and Herbert's steady hand should be the difference. Houston's offense, led by Mixon, will keep it close, but L.A.'s momentum and balanced attack give them the edge.
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