The LA Chargers seriously hurt their playoff chances by losing to the Houston Texans in Week 16. The Texans are one of the worst teams in the league and nobody expected the Chargers, who controlled their own destiny, to squander an opportunity against a team like the Texans.
Now the Chargers need some help to get into the playoffs. The percent chances of the Chargers making the playoffs dropped significantly after losing to the Texans but Charger fans can still be confident in their team making the playoffs this season.
That is, as long as the same team that showed up in Week 16 does not show up again.
There are two main reasons why the LA Chargers making the playoffs is still the most likely outcome.
Some might view this as merely being wishful thinking and there certainly is part of that in this. Obviously, we are hopeful that the LA Chargers will be able to make the playoffs in 2021. This is a team that has the talent to go on a deep playoff run and if they get hot at the right time can make some serious noise.
Granted, there are some big holes on this roster as well and the Chargers could also very well lose in the first round of the playoffs. The experience alone is the most valuable thing. While 2021 has been really fun, the 2022 season has been touted as the year that was supposed to really be the year. The Chargers have a ton of cap space heading into the offense and will be in year two of this Staley-Herbert partnership.
If the Chargers can get that playoff experience under their belt, especially for Herbert, then that only maximizes the window for next season. The Bolts could very well be a new version of the 2017-2018 Rams who made the playoffs in year one with Sean McVay and made the jump to the Super Bowl in year two.
So yes, there is some wishful thinking but when you really break it down, the Chargers have a good chance.