Posted on Dec 24

Chargers' Herbert reflects on playoff loss to Texans, vows to learn from mistakes

Posted Dec 24, 2025

The Los Angeles Chargers' Justin Herbert faces a critical rematch against the Houston Texans after a disappointing playoff performance last season.

Why it matters: This upcoming game offers Herbert an opportunity for redemption following a playoff loss in which he threw four interceptions—his highest total in any game and a stark contrast to his regular-season performance.

Herbert's four interceptions tied for the third-worst performance in franchise history (minimum 20 attempts) and marked a drastic drop from his regular-season form, where he had thrown just three interceptions, making him the first player in NFL history to throw more picks in a playoff game than during the regular season with at least 200 attempts.

What's new: The Chargers are gearing up to tackle the same Texans defense that stifled them previously, and both Herbert and head coach Jim Harbaugh acknowledge the need for improvement.

"It was one of those things that you continue to think about," Herbert reflected on the playoff loss.
Notably, the Texans’ defense ranks among the league's best in multiple categories, emphasizing the challenge ahead for Herbert and the Chargers.

Yes, but: While Herbert's individual talent is unquestionable, the Chargers' offensive line has struggled significantly, ranking last in pass-block win rate.

In the previous playoff encounter, Herbert faced considerable pressure, getting sacked four times and experiencing pressure on 39% of his dropbacks.
Harbaugh noted, "The team needed to protect him better," highlighting a crucial area for improvement as they prepare for this matchup.

What to watch: Herbert’s ability to learn from past mistakes will be pivotal in determining the outcome of this game.

He stated, "I try not to make the same mistake twice. And I think that's the most important thing," underscoring his commitment to accountability and growth.
The Chargers strategy may involve quicker passes or adjustments in the offensive scheme to counteract the Texans' defensive prowess.

The bottom line: This matchup is more than just a game; it’s a crucial test for Herbert's resilience and the Chargers' offensive line.

A successful performance against a formidable opponent like the Texans could reinvigorate the Chargers' aspirations for the season, while another lackluster showing would raise further questions about the team's readiness for postseason play.

Chargers' Herbert reflects on playoff loss to Texans, vows to learn from mistakes

Alex Parker

Posted Dec 24, 2025

The Los Angeles Chargers' Justin Herbert faces a critical rematch against the Houston Texans after a disappointing playoff performance last season.

Herbert's four interceptions tied for the third-worst performance in franchise history (minimum 20 attempts) and marked a drastic drop from his regular-season form, where he had thrown just three interceptions, making him the first player in NFL history to throw more picks in a playoff game than during the regular season with at least 200 attempts.

What's new: The Chargers are gearing up to tackle the same Texans defense that stifled them previously, and both Herbert and head coach Jim Harbaugh acknowledge the need for improvement.

"It was one of those things that you continue to think about," Herbert reflected on the playoff loss.

Notably, the Texans’ defense ranks among the league's best in multiple categories, emphasizing the challenge ahead for Herbert and the Chargers.

Yes, but: While Herbert's individual talent is unquestionable, the Chargers' offensive line has struggled significantly, ranking last in pass-block win rate.

In the previous playoff encounter, Herbert faced considerable pressure, getting sacked four times and experiencing pressure on 39% of his dropbacks.

Harbaugh noted, "The team needed to protect him better," highlighting a crucial area for improvement as they prepare for this matchup.

What to watch: Herbert’s ability to learn from past mistakes will be pivotal in determining the outcome of this game.

He stated, "I try not to make the same mistake twice. And I think that's the most important thing," underscoring his commitment to accountability and growth.

The Chargers strategy may involve quicker passes or adjustments in the offensive scheme to counteract the Texans' defensive prowess.

The bottom line: This matchup is more than just a game; it’s a crucial test for Herbert's resilience and the Chargers' offensive line.

A successful performance against a formidable opponent like the Texans could reinvigorate the Chargers' aspirations for the season, while another lackluster showing would raise further questions about the team's readiness for postseason play.