Predicting Chargers’ remaining schedule: How many wins in final 6 games?
The Chargers are standing at 6-5 after falling to the Broncos this past weekend.
The team currently is in a three-way tie for second place in the AFC West and is barely holding on for the final playoff spot, with a handful of teams right behind them.
With only six games remaining on their schedule, every game for the Bolts is crucial and should be treated like a postseason contest if they want to play beyond the regular season.
With that being said, let’s take a crack at predicting how the Chargers’ schedule could shake up.
Week 13: at Bengals
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The Bengals are hungry, riding a two-game win streak and only one game out from first place in the AFC North, while the Chargers are simply looking to find consistency with their game. Los Angeles found themselves struggling against the run again, and Joe Mixon poses a threat. On the other hand, Justin Herbert has not had his way against disguised coverages and Cincinnati is yet another a team that has had plenty of success with it.
Prediction: Loss (6-6)
Week 14: vs. Giants
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The Giants are not to be taken for granted, as they lost to the Chiefs by just three points and beat the Raiders. New York has been doing some good things defensively, but the team has also dealt with offensive sputters all season long, even after the coordinator change. The Chargers will force Daniel Jones into a couple of turnovers and put up enough points to come away with a win.
Prediction: Win (7-6)
Week 15: vs. Chiefs
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The Chiefs seemed to be on an unusual downward spiral, but after finding their groove on defense and establishing the explosive element on offense, they’re again a threat. The Chargers have an advantage because the game will be played at SoFi Stadium instead of in the cold conditions of Kansas City on a Thursday night. Nonetheless, even though I expect the primetime Justin Herbert to show up, Patrick Mahomes will guide the Chiefs on the final drive to set up the game-winning field goal.
Prediction: Loss (7-7)
Week 16: at Texans
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Tyrod Taylor will be seeking revenge on the team that punctured his lung in the second week of the 2020 season, which cost him his job. However, I can’t see the Chargers losing to a two-win Texans team that will be in contention for the No. 1 pick in the 2022 NFL draft.
Prediction: Win (8-7)
Week 17: vs. Broncos
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This is where it gets compelling. Given how neck and neck these teams are, this might not only be for a playoff spot but the division potentially. By then, Matt Feiler should be on the field this time around to prevent the pass protection problems from occurring. Furthermore, Linval Joseph should be available, and Brandon Staley should make the necessary personnel changes to slow the run. The Chargers get their revenge on the Broncos.
Prediction: Win (9-7)
Week 18: at Raiders
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The Chargers find themselves in Vegas to close out the regular season, with the playoffs in sight. Herbert carries his hot streak over and tosses three touchdowns. However, the defense allows Derek Carr and company to put up some points on their own. Ultimately, Los Angeles prevails.
Prediction: Win (10-7)
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