STAFF PICKS

Texans 27, Chargers 24

I probably won’t be picking many upsets this season, but here’s one this week. The Chargers have the worst rushing offense in the NFL, which will be one less thing the Texans have to worry about. If they can limit explosive plays from Justin Herbert and win the turnover battle, I think they win. The Texans have won two games against the Chargers in the past three seasons. Sunday, they’ll make it three.

Chargers 27, Texans 17

Let’s not overreact about the Chargers being 1-2. Running back Austin Ekeler has faced top-15 run defenses the past three games. The last-place Texans surrender 45 more rushing yards on average than any other team. A revamped Chargers run game should be enough to support quarterback Justin Herbert, who’s still battling a rib injury. Defensive end Joey Bosa’s on injured reserve (torn groin), but outside linebacker Khalil Mack will be enough to cause Davis Mills problems.

Texans 20, Chargers 17

I shouldn’t do this, especially after the Texans completely screwed it up last week. But the Chargers are a walking injury report, and the Texans will win at least one game this season. Wrap it all together, and the Texans beat Los Angeles’ other NFL team again.

Chargers 27, Texans 17

The Chargers don’t have much of a running game, but Justin Herbert can throw it with the best of them. The Texans can’t score enough to keep up.