The anticipation for the upcoming NFL season is palpable, and I couldn’t resist diving into the schedule to make some predictions. Last year’s attempt yielded a respectable 8-9 record, considering the numerous coaching changes, injuries, and other factors that affected the season’s outcome.
This year, many fans are optimistic about their team’s chances, and rightfully so. The addition of a seasoned coach like Harbaugh is a significant boost, but I believe this season will be a year of adjustments rather than a playoff push.
Here’s my game-by-game prediction:
Week 1: vs. Las Vegas – WIN (1-0)
The Chargers typically dominate the Raiders in their first matchup, only to struggle later in the season. This year, the Raiders’ lackluster draft and losses on both sides of the ball make them vulnerable.
Week 2: @ Carolina – WIN (2-0)
The Panthers are in disarray, and their offseason moves did little to inspire confidence. Without a reliable quarterback, they’ll struggle to keep up with the Chargers.
Week 3: @ Pittsburgh – WIN (3-0)
The Steelers’ quarterback situation is uncertain, which gives the Chargers an edge. While Pittsburgh has made some positive moves, their overall roster still has question marks.
Week 4: vs. Kansas City – LOSS (3-1)
The Chiefs have improved their roster and boast one of the best coaches, quarterbacks, and tight ends in the league. It’s hard to envision the Chargers pulling off a win in either matchup.
Week 5: BYE
Week 6: @ Denver – LOSS (3-2)
The Broncos are in a similar state of flux as the Chargers, but their defense remains solid. I expect the Chargers to split the series, with the loss coming in Denver.
Week 7: @ Arizona – LOSS (3-3)
The Cardinals are an enigma, but with Kyler Murray back, they have the potential to cause problems. If Murray is on form, this could be a frustrating loss for Chargers fans.
Week 8: vs. New Orleans – WIN (4-3)
The Saints are in limbo, which works in the Chargers’ favor. With a weak secondary and an aging quarterback, the Saints are ripe for the taking.
Week 9: @ Cleveland – LOSS (4-4)
Even if Deshaun Watson struggles, the Browns’ defense is still formidable, and their offense has enough talent to cause problems.
Week 10: vs. Tennessee – LOSS (4-5)
The Titans have made some savvy moves, and their young quarterback has potential. With a strong receiving corps and a solid defense, they could give the Chargers fits.
Week 11: vs. Cincinnati – LOSS (4-6)
With Joe Burrow back and their team at full strength, the Bengals will be tough to beat. The Chargers’ missing pieces on both sides of the ball make a win unlikely.
Week 12: vs. Baltimore – LOSS (4-7)
The Harbowl will be entertaining, but the Chargers’ chances of winning are slim. The Ravens’ defense and Lamar Jackson are too much to overcome.
Week 13: @ Atlanta – WIN (5-7)
I’m high on the Falcons this year, but their inconsistency makes them hard to trust. The Chargers should capitalize on Atlanta’s weaknesses.
Week 14: @ Kansas City – LOSS (5-8)
Unless the Chiefs suffer significant injuries, it’s hard to see them losing to the Chargers twice.
Week 15: vs. Tampa Bay – WIN (6-8)
The Buccaneers have regressed, and their aging stars might start to decline. The Chargers should take advantage of their vulnerabilities.
Week 16: vs. Denver – WIN (7-8)
Logic suggests the Chargers will win at home, especially if they want to split the series.
Week 17: @ New England – WIN (8-8)
The Patriots are in course-correction mode, and their lack of a proven quarterback and commander-in-chief makes them vulnerable.
Week 18: @ Las Vegas – LOSS (8-9)
This feels like a split series, and the Raiders will likely celebrate a meaningless win.
In the end, I believe 8-9 is a reasonable prediction. While the difference between 8-9 and 9-8 feels significant, I don’t think the latter will secure a wildcard spot this year. The AFC North and East will be highly competitive, and the Chargers’ roster isn’t ready to compete with the top teams in the conference. Next year, expectations will rise, but for now, I’m content to watch Herbert play with a competent team around him for the first time.
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