What Are the Chargers' Playoff Chances After Eagles Game?

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Dec 9, 2025 12:37 AM ET

A lot was on the line for Justin Herbert and the Los Angeles Chargers on Monday night as they battled the Philadelphia Eagles in a primetime matchup. The Chargers entered the game with an 8-4 record and on a mission to secure their second straight win after a convincing 31-14 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 13.

Herbert fractured his left hand in the win over Vegas and had to undergo surgery on Monday, Dec. 1, to address the injury. There was a lot of doubt on his status for the Eagles game, but ultimately, not even a fracture on his non-throwing hand was going to prevent the Pro Bowl quarterback from taking the field in this crucial matchup.

Herbert, with a cast on his left hand, willed his team to a crucial victory against the defending champs, 22-19 after overtime. This win led to a significant change in L.A.'s playoff chances as the postseason approaches.

Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert after an NFL game.Amanda Perobelli/Reuters via Imagn Images

It was far from an incredible performance for Herbert, though. The former Oregon Ducks star finished with 12-of-26 completed passes for 139 yards, one touchdown and one interception, while also getting sacked six times. However, the 27-year-old was able to make up for it with 66 rushing yards on six carries.

In the end, it was a Tony Jefferson interception that sealed the deal for the Chargers. After scoring a field goal in the opening drive of overtime, L.A.'s defense came through, picking off Jalen Hurts on what could have very well been a game-winning touchdown pass in the extra period.

What Are the Chargers' Playoff Chances After Eagles Game?

According to a projection model presented by Ali Bhanpuri of NFL.com, the Chargers entered “Monday Night Football” with a 61% chance of making the playoffs. A loss would have brought their chances down to 50%, but the win has now boosted their odds to 76%.

The Chargers, now 9-4, remain second in the AFC West behind the 11-2 Denver Broncos, who are riding a 10-game winning streak. L.A. has climbed to fourth in the conference.

As for the Eagles, the champs entered Monday's contest with a 95% chance of making the postseason. Their odds dipped slightly to 89% after the loss. They remain first in the NFC East and third in the conference.

Both teams now have four games remaining on their schedule for the regular season.

Up next for the Chargers is a matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs, who are in dire straits after suffering a second straight loss on Sunday against the Houston Texans. Herbert and Co. will head to Arrowhead Stadium for Week 15, with kickoff against the mighty Chiefs scheduled for Sunday at 1:00 p.m. ET.

The Eagles, on the other hand, get the 2-11 Las Vegas Raiders next in a home game at Lincoln Financial Field on Sunday.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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