Final Six Games Prediction of the 2024 NFL Season for the Los Angeles Chargers 

The Los Angeles Chargers have reached a critical point in the season, sitting at 7-4 as they prepare for the final six games of the 2024 NFL season. With a strong roster led by quarterback Justin Herbert and a shot at a playoff spot, the Chargers must navigate a challenging schedule to keep their hopes alive. From NFL Week 13 against the Atlanta Falcons to a crucial Week 18 divisional showdown with the Las Vegas Raiders, every game is a chance to prove themselves. Here’s a detailed prediction for how the Chargers will finish the season and their chance of making the playoffs.

NFL Week 13: Can the Chargers Outplay the Atlanta Falcons?

The Chargers kick off their final six games with a must-win matchup against the Atlanta Falcons. Sitting atop the NFC South, the Falcons are no pushovers. The Chargers will need to contain running back Bijan Robinson, who averages over 70 yards per game, and disrupt quarterback Kirk Cousins with a relentless pass rush.

Despite Atlanta’s strong run game and weapons like Drake London and Kyle Pitts, the Chargers should have the edge. Justin Herbert, surging aerial attack, is poised to lead the Chargers offense to a victory. The Falcons' defense struggles in the secondary, making this a winnable game if Herbert can connect with targets like rookie Ladd McConkey and a bounce back from second-year Quentin Johnston.

Prediction: Chargers win 31-24 in a close game.

NFL Week 14: Road Test Against the Kansas City Chiefs

The Week 14 matchup against the Chiefs is always a high-stakes divisional clash. With the Chiefs sitting at the top of both the AFC West and AFC, this is a game where the Chargers must find a way to win. This will be the second game of four that running back J.K. Dobbins will miss due to being placed on IR before week 13. If the Chargers can find a way to win, it will be by putting disciplined pressure on Mahomes.  All too often, pass rushers overcommit and run past their containment responsibilities and Mahomes makes you pay on 3rd downplays when you have to get off the field.

However, divisional games are never an easy task, especially in primetime. The Chargers’ offensive line must protect Herbert from the Chiefs’ tough interior rush, led by Chris Jones.

Prediction: Chargers lose a close one 24-21.

NFL Week 15: Home Game Against Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Chargers will host the Tampa Bay in Week 15 for a challenging contest at SOFI. Facing a Buccaneer team fighting for relevance, this matchup could go either way. Tampa Bay’s defense, anchored by Vita Vea, will test the Chargers’ ability to run the ball, while their offense looks to exploit the secondary.

The key here is Herbert’s ability to adapt under pressure. If the Chargers’ offensive line holds up, Herbert will find enough opportunities to make plays but expect this one to come down to the wire.

Prediction: Chargers win 21-20 in a close game.

NFL Week 16: A Crucial Game Against the Denver Broncos

The Chargers’ Week 16 showdown with the Denver Broncos might decide their playoff fate. With both teams likely fighting for a wildcard spot, expect an intense, physical game.

Denver’s defense, led by sack leader Nik Bonitto with 10 through 12 weeks and all pro-CB Pat Surtain II, will aim to pressure Herbert all night, while the Chargers need to stop the Broncos’ ground game. If the Chargers can limit turnovers and find balance on offense, this is a game they should win.

Prediction: Chargers win 23-20 in dramatic fashion.

NFL Week 17: Facing the New England Patriots

In Week 17, the Chargers meet the struggling Patriots in what feels like a classic trap game. The Patriots' rebuilding year with rookie Drake Maye has been tough, but games like this can still turn ugly if the Chargers aren’t sharp. Regarding Drake Maye, while the record isn't what they'd hope for, the rookie has been playing well and extending plays better than most in the league.

Expect the Patriots to rely on their defense to slow down the Chargers. But with Herbert playing at an MVP level and head coach Jim Harbaugh scheming to exploit mismatches, the Chargers should control this one from the start.

Prediction: Chargers win 24-10 in a decisive performance.

NFL Week 18: Road Test Against the Las Vegas Raiders

The Week 18 matchup against the Raiders is always a high-stakes divisional clash. With the Raiders sitting near the bottom of the AFC West, this is a game where the Chargers must dominate. Look for hopefully a healthy running back J.K. Dobbins returning from IR to take pressure off Herbert by exploiting a weak Raiders' run defense.

However, divisional games are never an easy task. The Chargers’ offensive line must protect Herbert from the Raiders’ pass rush, led by Maxx Crosby who has 7.5 sacks as of week 13. If they execute on both sides of the ball, this is a win they can count on.

Prediction: Chargers win 27-17.

Can the Chargers Secure a Playoff Spot?

With a projected finish of 12-5, the Chargers have a strong case for a playoff spot and a high wild card spot at that. Divisional wins over the Raiders and Broncos give them the edge in any tiebreaker scenarios.

Much of their success depends on the continued dominance of the Chargers Defense led by Jesse Minter and the excellence of Justin Herbert, who has been the anchor of this team. The Chargers still have some weaknesses to address, particularly their rush defense, but they’ve shown they can compete with the best teams in the league.

Key Factors for Chargers Fans to Watch

1. Justin Herbert’s Leadership: With over 3,500 passing yards likely by season’s end, Herbert is the key to the Chargers’ success.

2. Defensive Improvements: Players like Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack must step up their pass rush in these final games, which has taken a back seat as of late.

3. Avoiding Trap Games: Wins against weaker teams like the Patriots and Raiders are essential to reach 12-5.

4. Divisional Matchups: The Chargers need victories over the Broncos and Raiders to secure their wildcard spot.