LAS VEGAS — Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert expressed excitement based on the supportive noises coming from teammates in adjacent meeting rooms on Saturday, indicating that positive events were unfolding. The Los Angeles Chargers had a vested interest in the evening’s game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cincinnati Bengals, needing a Steelers loss to maintain hopes for the AFC playoffs’ fifth seed. The Bengals succeeded in defeating the Steelers, which paved the way for the Chargers to seize a significant chance the following day.
Despite encountering early challenges in the red zone, Herbert led the team to a commanding 34-20 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders, passing for 346 yards and two touchdowns. With this win, the Chargers secured their fifth seed in the playoffs, finishing the regular season with an impressive 11-6 record. They will face off against the Houston Texans, who finished fourth with a record of 10-7, on Saturday. A defeat would have meant a daunting matchup against the Baltimore Ravens, a situation that could have led to an unfortunate family rivalry of sorts between head coaches Jim and John Harbaugh, with the elder sibling having an undefeated record against the younger one.
Reflecting on the team’s performance, Jim Harbaugh expressed immense pride in his players, particularly emphasizing Herbert’s capabilities. “It was astounding, but I’ve watched his growth every day. His throws were so precise, as if he were simply handing off the ball. A remarkable game indeed,” he noted. The Raiders, under coach Antonio Pierce, wrapped up their season with a 4-13 record, and Pierce faced inquiries about his job security, responding with two “no comments” regarding his future with the team.
This victory marked a significant milestone for the Chargers, who achieved their first win in Las Vegas since 2020, as well as the first season sweep against their AFC West rival since 2018—also the last time they reached at least 11 wins in a season. Herbert showcased his impressive skills, including a notable 41-yard run in the third quarter that set the stage for a 2-yard touchdown pass to Will Dissly, extending their lead to 27-13.
In the receiving department, second-year player Quentin Johnston shone brightly, breaking personal records with 13 catches for 186 yards. After facing criticism for a dropped pass in a previous loss to the Ravens, Herbert praised Johnston’s recent performance, highlighting his confidence and ability to contribute when it matters most. Ladd McConkey contributed five receptions for 95 yards, extending his streak to ten consecutive games with over 50 yards—a new rookie record, surpassing that of Odell Beckham Jr. His season totals of 82 receptions and 1,149 yards set new rookie benchmarks for the Chargers.
Raiders quarterback Aidan O’Connell managed 214 yards and two touchdowns, with Jakobi Meyers making nine catches for 123 yards and a touchdown to reach over 1,000 yards for the first time in his career as an undrafted free agent. Meanwhile, Brock Bowers recorded four catches for 50 yards and a touchdown, finishing the season just shy of 1,200 receiving yards.
Throughout the game, despite outgaining the Raiders by a considerable margin of 473 yards to 264, the Chargers encountered difficulties in the red zone early on, failing to score touchdowns on three of their first four attempts. Las Vegas had held the lead for the majority of the first half, seemingly poised to extend their advantage. However, a crucial interception by linebacker Daiyan Henley just before halftime shifted momentum in favor of the Chargers, leading to a last-minute touchdown that put them ahead 17-10.
The Chargers maintained control following their resurgence, while the contrast from their previous experience at Allegiant Stadium could not be overlooked. The last matchup had culminated in a devastating loss, prompting significant changes within the organization. Now, the Chargers set their sights on the playoffs as questions loom over the Raiders, particularly regarding Pierce’s future and the quarterback position moving forward.
In terms of injuries, the Chargers saw several key players sidelined, including running back Gus Edwards (ankle) and wide receiver Josh Palmer (foot). Offensive lineman Rashawn Slater was also scratched due to discomfort, while guard Trey Pipkins left early in the third quarter. The Raiders missed running back Ameer Abdullah (foot) and cornerback Nate Hobbs (illness) in their season finale.
Upcoming for the Chargers is a playoff matchup against the AFC South champion Texans, marking their first postseason appearance since 2022 and the second since 2018. The Raiders, on the other hand, face a critical offseason full of uncertainty, including the future of both coach Antonio Pierce and quarterback Aidan O’Connell.
