Although we are not quite in the territory where the Los Angeles Chargers' upcoming matchup with the Philadelphia Eagles is an absolute must-win game, we have certainly entered the realm where each successive week carries an intense importance in the league's playoff picture.
Entering this final stretch of games, the Chargers have a rough slate set for them, with each of their upcoming matchups presenting their own unique challenges in comparison to the deficiencies the team has experienced this season.
Yet, given the way that the Eagles' passing offense has struggled to find its footing this season, the Chargers could have a prime opportunity to exploit their opponent's glaring weakness in their passing game, giving them an excellent shot at pulling out a pivotal win to begin their run through this gauntlet.
The Chargers have the perfect path to forcing the Eagles into a disadvantageous situation
Despite a couple of brutal losses that have scarred the Chargers' record, their defense, overall, has been the strength of the team this season.
While their run defense struggled in the earlier portions of the season, they have begun to look drastically improved past their bye, and there is a good chance that, with everyone healthy, they will remain effective throughout the rest of the season.
The real star, however, has been their secondary. Through the team's first 12 games, Los Angeles is the fifth-best team in the league in regards to net passing yards per opponent attempt, having allowed the second-fewest passing yards on a per-game basis in the entire NFL.
Philadelphia, meanwhile, has struggled to find its footing on offense under new offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo this season. Through their first 12 games, they are 24th in the NFL in total passing yards.
This, largely, is a result of the run-heavy approach that the Eagles have taken this season despite the struggles they've seen on the ground. They are 29th in the league in total passing attempts, and, while their net yards per attempt are relatively high, it is clear that they are not comfortable leaning into a heavy air game under their current offensive structure.
If the Chargers are somehow able to jump out to a quick lead, buoyed by the absence of Jalen Carter and the health of their offensive pieces (including, hopefully, Justin Herbert and Omarion Hampton), they could force Philadelphia into a game script that necessitates them testing Los Angeles's staunch passing defense.
The Eagles will, almost certainly, present a tough matchup for the Chargers even despite their struggles this season. Yet, with Philadelphia coming off of back-to-back losses, Los Angeles now has a unique opportunity to capitalize upon a favorable matchup.