Chiefs (10-6) at Chargers (5-11)
Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET, SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, California TV: CBS
Spread (BetMGM):
Chargers by 2
Chiefs’ keys to victory: With the AFC West locked up for the eighth consecutive season as well as the conference’s No. 3 seed, the Chiefs don’t have anything to play for, which could lead to them resting their starters. Regardless of who plays, Kansas City must minimize edge rusher Khalil Mack, who recently reached 100 career sacks and a new season high with 16. Defensively, they have caused fits for opposing offenses by generating consistent pressure.
Chargers’ keys to victory: The Chargers struggled offensively against the Broncos without their top wide receivers, Keenan Allen and Joshua Palmer. If they’re back from injuries, they should provide a spark in the season finale. Protecting QB Easton Stick is imperative. The Chiefs are second in the league in sacks with 54. Defensively, the Chargers need to play fundamentally sound football by making open-field tackles, something they have struggled with all season.
Matchup to watch: Chiefs defense vs. Chargers’ Stick. Stick has been at the helm the past few weeks since QB Justin Herbert suffered a season-ending injury to his throwing hand. This will be his last time to audition for a new contract, whether it be with Los Angeles or another team. He is still looking for his first win as an NFL starter, and this game provides a good opportunity.
Who wins? The Chargers will play hard for Giff Smith in his final game as interim head coach, but since their roster is so depleted, it’s difficult to see them winning, even if it is against the Chiefs backups.
Chiefs, 17-13