The most pivotal matchup on the Los Angeles Chargers’ 2025 schedule may not come in the season finale, but rather one week earlier. In Week 17, the Chargers will host the Houston Texans in what could be a defining moment of the season — a rematch of last year’s AFC Wild Card debacle that saw L.A. suffer a brutal 32-12 loss.
That playoff exit, marked by four interceptions from Justin Herbert, was one of the lowest points of his career and a humbling end to what had been a promising run under new head coach Jim Harbaugh. The Chargers had entered the postseason with momentum after three straight wins, drawing dark-horse Super Bowl buzz. But the Texans dismantled them, exposing flaws the team is now determined to fix.
Los Angeles Chargers Week 17 Rematch Vs. Houston Texans
Week 17 isn’t just about revenge — it’s about proving growth. With the playoffs again in sight, this game will likely carry significant implications. Depending on how the season unfolds, the Chargers could enter with eight or nine wins. Historically, 10 victories are the threshold for securing an AFC playoff spot, making this clash potentially decisive.
For Houston, the game will matter just as much. While they may lock up the AFC South by then, the Texans and Chargers could also find themselves fighting for a Wild Card berth. The stakes will be enormous either way.
Though the Chargers finish the season on the road — again — against the Denver Broncos (their seventh road finale in eight years), it’s Week 17 that looms largest. Denver in January is no picnic, but the true test of L.A.’s playoff mettle will come the week before.
If the Chargers are legitimate contenders, they’ll need to navigate a gauntlet that includes Dallas, Houston, and Denver. Another lopsided loss to the Texans would raise major red flags. A win, however, could be the spark that carries them into January — and maybe even February.
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