The Chargers have struggled to advance beyond the divisional round, where they last lost to New England in 2018. The Los Angeles team wants to make amends and now, unlike six years ago, has more tools to do so.
The Patriots managed to make the playoffs in 2021 before going through three consecutive losing seasons. They return to the postseason this year with 23-year-old prodigy quarterback Drake Maye, who threw for 30 touchdowns in just his second season.
Recent history: Slight advantage to New England
In their last six meetings, the trend is favorable for the Patriots with a 4-2 record. In 2020, New England crushed the Los Angeles team 45-0. Four years later, the Chargers got their revenge and took that beating 40-7 against the Pats.
In 2023, they starred in one of the great games in terms of defense. It was a chess match to see who could defend better. The victory was 6-0 for the Chargers.
The good news for the Chargers: The pressure is on Drake Maye
With New England the overwhelming favorite to win this tie, Justin Herbert has the advantage of entering the field lighter. In addition, the Patriots’ quarterback is weighed down by the shadows and comparisons with Tom Brady, something that can play against him on an emotional level.
The key to the game: the first half
If the Chargers manage to contain the Patriots’ offense in the first two quarters, they will have a high chance of winning, because in addition to avoiding points against them, they will manage to frustrate their opponent and cause nervousness that translates into errors or carelessness. Going into halftime with a one-possession lead or deficit is a good result to upset New England’s plans.
What should Chargers do? Play their game
Unlike those seasons when they watched the playoffs on television and let victory slip away in the last minute, the current Chargers are a solid and balanced team that has found in its offensive vocation a structure that gives results. The best thing is that they continue with that mentality and vision without thinking about the opponent.
Where and when to watch Chargers vs. Patriots?
Date: Sunday, January 11, 2026
Time: 8:00 p.m. ET
Venue: Gillette Stadium, Foxborough
TV: NBC/Peacock
Streaming: Fubo, NFL+
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