Best Moneyline Odds: Los Angeles Chargers -156 (FanDuel) / Houston Texans +132 (FanDuel)
Best Spread Odds: 3.0 - Los Angeles Chargers -105 (BetMGM) / Houston Texans -112 (DraftKings)
Best Total Odds: 43.5 - Under -110 (BetRivers) / Over -110 (BetRivers)
Special offers available for this game
Underdog: Free Pick for NEW Customers: Justin Herbert Total Yards > 0.5
Betr: Free Pick for NEW Customers: Justin Herbert Total Passing Attempts > 0.5
Game Info
Date: 1/11/2025
Time: 4:30 PM EST
Location: NRG Stadium (Houston, TX)
TV: CBS
Historic Head-to-Head Stats and Analysis
Over the past three seasons, the Los Angeles Chargers and the Houston Texans have faced each other once, with the Chargers emerging victorious. In this matchup, the visiting team, the Chargers, secured the win, while the home team, the Texans, did not manage to claim victory. The Chargers also covered the spread in this game, while the Texans did not. The game went over the projected total, with the over hitting once and the under not hitting at all. This singular encounter provides a limited but clear picture of the Chargers' dominance in this specific matchup, both in terms of outright victory and against the spread.
In the most recent game on October 2, 2022, the Los Angeles Chargers defeated the Houston Texans with a final score of 34-24. The Chargers, favored with a closing spread of 5.5, managed to cover the spread comfortably. The game saw a total score of 58 points, surpassing the closing over-under line of 45, thus resulting in an over. The Chargers' offense was effective, accumulating 419 total yards, with Justin Herbert throwing for 340 yards and two touchdowns. Austin Ekeler contributed significantly with two rushing touchdowns. The Chargers' defense also played a crucial role, recording four sacks and two interceptions, which helped limit the Texans' offensive output.
The Texans, despite the loss, had some notable performances, particularly from Dameon Pierce, who scored a 75-yard rushing touchdown. Houston's offense managed 346 total yards, with Davis Mills throwing for 246 yards and two touchdowns. However, the Texans struggled on third downs, converting only 33.3% of their attempts, and their two turnovers proved costly. The Chargers' ability to control the game was evident in their time of possession, holding the ball for 31 minutes and 39 seconds compared to the Texans' 28 minutes and 21 seconds. This game highlighted the Chargers' ability to execute both offensively and defensively, setting a precedent for their upcoming matchup.
Los Angeles Chargers at Houston Texans Preview
The Los Angeles Chargers, under the guidance of head coach Jim Harbaugh, are set to face the Houston Texans in a highly anticipated AFC Wild Card matchup. The Chargers, who finished the regular season with an impressive 11-6 record, are riding a wave of momentum after securing three consecutive victories, including a decisive 34-20 win over the Las Vegas Raiders. This victory not only clinched the No. 5 seed for the Chargers but also showcased the offensive prowess of quarterback Justin Herbert, who threw for 346 yards and two touchdowns, and wide receiver Quentin Johnston, who had a career-high 186 receiving yards.
On the other side, the Houston Texans, who ended the regular season with a 10-7 record, have shown resilience despite facing challenges. The Texans secured the AFC South title and the No. 4 seed, but their journey has been marred by inconsistency, particularly on offense. Quarterback C.J. Stroud, while showing flashes of brilliance, has struggled behind a porous offensive line and a receiving corps hit by injuries, including the loss of key players Stefon Diggs and Tank Dell. However, the Texans' defense, ranked 11th in rushing yards allowed and 7th in passing yards allowed, has been a formidable force, led by pass rushers Will Anderson and Danielle Hunter.
As the Chargers prepare to travel to NRG Stadium, they will rely on their top-ranked scoring defense, which has been instrumental in their success this season. The Chargers' ability to control the game with their defense and capitalize on the Texans' offensive struggles will be crucial. Meanwhile, the Texans will look to leverage their home-field advantage and defensive strengths to counter the Chargers' high-powered offense. This matchup promises to be a thrilling contest, with both teams eager to advance in the playoffs and make a statement in the postseason.
Los Angeles Chargers at Houston Texans Pick: Houston Texans Moneyline
The Houston Texans, despite their challenges this season, present a compelling case for a victory in this wild-card matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers. The Texans have demonstrated resilience, securing the AFC South title and the No. 4 seed with a 10-7 record. Their defense has been a standout unit, ranking 11th in rushing yards allowed and 7th in passing yards allowed, showcasing their ability to stifle opposing offenses. This defensive prowess will be crucial in countering the Chargers' high-powered offense led by Justin Herbert.
While the Texans' offense has faced inconsistencies, particularly with injuries to key receivers like Stefon Diggs and Tank Dell, quarterback C.J. Stroud has shown flashes of brilliance. In their recent victory over the Tennessee Titans, Stroud was efficient, completing all his passes in the opening drive for a touchdown. The Texans' ability to adapt and overcome adversity, as evidenced by their bounce-back win against the Titans after two tough losses, highlights their potential to rise to the occasion in the playoffs.
Moreover, the Texans will benefit from playing at home in NRG Stadium, where they have the support of their fans and the familiarity of their environment. This home-field advantage could play a pivotal role in their performance, providing them with the extra edge needed to secure a win. The Chargers, while impressive in their recent games, have not faced a defense as formidable as Houston's in their final stretch of the regular season. The Texans' defensive capabilities, combined with their determination to advance in the playoffs, make them a strong contender to emerge victorious in this matchup.
Los Angeles Chargers at Houston Texans Top Player Prop Picks
Justin Herbert Over 231.5 Passing Yards -114 (FanDuel)