New England Patriots vs Los Angeles Chargers Prediction & Picks - NFL

Prediction published on 1/11/26, 5:12 PM  by Carlos Zabala | Modified on 1/16/26 at 4:43 AM in NFL Picks

The NFL action continues on Sunday with a highly anticipated Wild Card matchup between the 11-6 Chargers and the 14-3 Patriots. The game will take place at Gillette Stadium, and New England is a 3.5-point favorite in the betting odds.

Drake Maye's incredible numbers during the regular season highlight the Patriots' impressive season. He played 17 games, attempting 492 passes and completing 354, throwing 8 interceptions and 31 touchdowns. This unexpectedly amazing season has made him a strong MVP candidate. He will now lead New England to its first playoff game since 2021. His teammate, Stefon Diggs, said he is confident that we will see the same dominant version of Maye, even in the playoffs. The 23-year-old quarterback simply stated, "I've got to play well for us to win."

Of course, on the other side will be another QB having a fantastic season; Justin Herbert will lead the Chargers, looking to improve his personal 0-2 record in playoff games. Herbert reports being ready and rested, despite having undergone surgery on his non-throwing hand less than a month ago.