The Chargers beat the New England Patriots 40-7 to clinch their first playoff berth since 2022, which will be their third postseason appearance in 11 seasons.

Justin Herbert threw three touchdown passes and the Los Angeles Chargers clinched their second playoff appearance in three seasons with a 40-7 victory over the New England Patriots on Saturday. The win also secured the fourth postseason appearance in Jim Harbaugh’s five seasons as an NFL coach,

The loss moved New England (3-12) into position for the No. 2 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, something the Patriots will likely maintain with losses in the final games against Los Angeles and Buffalo. Wins in either contest would likely drop New England several spots in the draft order.