Analyst Makes Bold Chargers-Chiefs Playoff Prediction

Got That Big Kick Energy?

It’s not an entirely baseless take. Head coach Jim Harbaugh has a proven track record of turning franchises around quickly, and Year 1 with the Chargers saw their defense transform from one of the NFL’s worst to its best in points allowed. With a foundation in place, Harbaugh and GM Joe Hortiz have stacked back-to-back drafts with offensive weapons, including running back Omarion Hampton and receivers Ladd McConkey and Tre Harris.

Combined with franchise quarterback Justin Herbert, elite tackle play from Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt, and an improved ground game, the Chargers appear better positioned than in recent years to challenge for the AFC West crown.

Of course, any claim to the division goes through Patrick Mahomes. The Chiefs are riding a streak of nine consecutive AFC West titles and are fresh off a 15-2 season. But as Cowherd noted, they benefited from going 11-0 in one-score games—a trend unlikely to repeat. Offensive line concerns remain in Kansas City, particularly with new faces at key spots and the departure of Joe Thuney. Even with the return of Rashee Rice and the addition of Hollywood Brown, there’s uncertainty about how well the Chiefs will protect their quarterback.

Los Angeles still has to prove it on the field—especially given Herbert’s 0-2 postseason record—but with a balanced roster, continuity on defense, and Harbaugh’s influence, the Chargers finally look like a team ready to push Kansas City for control of the West.