(Photo: Clutchpoints)
AFC Game Of The Week
Houston Texans at Los Angeles Chargers
Texans (10-5):
The fact that they are where they are now after starting the season 0-3 is remarkable. I was very vocal about them during that losing streak — one side of the ball was clearly outperforming the other. In their opener against the Los Angeles Rams, they gave up only 14 points on defense. In week two, they allowed 20 points against Tampa Bay, and in week three against the Jacksonville Jaguars, they gave up 17. Whenever teams struggle, fingers are often pointed everywhere, but in this instance, the defense was what kept them in games, while the offense struggled whenever the defense went three-and-out and returned the ball. The last time this group lost a game was November 2nd in week nine against the Denver Broncos, and they played them tough. Since then, the Houston Texans have won seven consecutive games, currently the longest streak in the league. Some of the teams they’ve defeated have been impressive: the comeback win over the Jacksonville Jaguars, the domination of the Bills (sacking Josh Allen eight times), the win over the Colts, who controlled the AFC South for most of the season, and the most impressive — a Sunday night win at Arrowhead against the Chiefs. They’ve defeated two teams currently in the AFC playoff picture and even got by the defending AFC champions. The Texans have the best defense I’ve seen this year, and if they make the playoffs, I can see them winning a game simply because of their defense and physicality — which travels especially well in January. Tomorrow, they will look for their eighth consecutive victory.
Chargers (11-4):
After a 3-0 start, I thought they had finally figured it out. Then, they lost two straight — one to the New York Giants and a tough loss to the Washington Commanders. But now, let’s focus on what’s gone well. In their last nine games, they have a 7-2 record, including wins over last year’s Super Bowl participants (Eagles and Chiefs), and they also eliminated the Chiefs from playoff contention. The win against the Cowboys was the best I’ve seen them look since week one against the Chiefs. They controlled the game from the first whistle to the last, with Justin Herbert carving up the Dallas defense — something few teams have done this year. The Chargers are also getting healthy at the right time, including the return of Omarion Hampton, who missed seven games due to a fractured ankle. This is a good football team due to a potent mix of Jim Harbaugh’s physical philosophy, Justin Herbert’s high-level play despite offensive line issues, and a stingy, physical defense — a Harbaugh staple. They force turnovers, swarm to the ball, and generate a dominant edge rush. Believe it or not, the Chargers are still in play for the AFC West division title — something they haven’t won since 2009, when Philip Rivers, LaDainian Tomlinson, and Antonio Gates were teammates. Tomorrow, they welcome the streaking Houston Texans for a playoff rematch from January.
Texans X-Factor: Nico Collins
What a difference he makes a huge difference for this Houston offense. Whether the team is ahead or trailing, they still find ways to get him the football, which screams X-factor. He can create mismatches against the L.A. secondary, and if he wins early battles, the Chargers will be forced to adjust their coverage. Nico is also a chain mover; when Stroud needs to keep the offense on the field, he’s usually the first read. Additionally, the attention he commands in the red zone can either lead to touchdowns or open opportunities for other players.
Chargers X-Factor: Quentin Johnston
I was high on him during his college days at TCU, where he was a key piece in their 2022 National Championship run. This is the type of receiver Justin Herbert has needed, and Quientin has stepped up this season. His combination of size and speed gives him home-run ability, and his presence forces Houston into “coverage decisions.” If the Texans double McConkey or shade Keenan Allen, he gets favorable matchups. Against an aggressive Texans defense, quick passes to Quentin can turn into chunk gains.
Final Thoughts:
These two teams kicked off Super Wild Card weekend in January, with the Texans dominating and intercepting Justin Herbert four times. More than 11 months later, here we are for the rematch. Both teams are clicking — Houston has won their last seven games, and the Chargers have won their last four. One winning streak will continue, while the other will be snapped. There are playoff stakes and momentum for both sides. If Houston wins, they stay within striking distance of the AFC South crown and clinch a playoff spot. The Chargers have already clinched a playoff spot, but a win would set up a huge game against the Denver Broncos next weekend. Keys for Houston: Get push up front, especially in the run game, to relieve pressure on Stroud. lean on the defense to create negative plays and limit big gains and exploit favorable matchups early. Keys for Los Angeles: Protect Justin Herbert from Houston’s elite pass rush, get McConkey and Johnston involved to neutralize the Texans’ pass rush and lastly, stay efficient on third downs to control the clock and keep Houston’s offense off the field. I’m expecting a hard-hitting, physical football game.
