The Los Angeles Chargers find themselves in an enviable position with a 2-0 start to the season, poised to potentially go 3-0 against the Denver Broncos in their upcoming home opener. Such a start in the AFC West is rare, and for the Chargers, it hasn’t happened since 1988. If they succeed, this would mark their first 3-0 start since 2002, setting them on a promising trajectory as they approach what appears to be a softer segment of their schedule.
The strategic arrangement of the Chargers’ schedule has raised eyebrows, with their first three games against division rivals—the Kansas City Chiefs, Las Vegas Raiders, and now the Broncos—a unique pattern not seen in recent years. One of the highlights of the season opener was an unexpected international match against the Chiefs in São Paulo, Brazil. This game, selected as part of the NFL’s initiative to expand its global audience, also marked the league’s first YouTube broadcast event. The Chargers took full advantage, defeating the Chiefs and giving their star quarterback, Justin Herbert, a platform to shine. Meanwhile, the Chiefs faced a daunting return journey to prepare for their Super Bowl rematch against the Philadelphia Eagles, which they lost.
The peculiarities of the NBA schedule didn’t stop there. Week 2 threw another curveball, with a Chris Brown concert creating a scheduling conflict at SoFi Stadium. As a result, the Chargers played the Raiders on the road in a Monday night doubleheader, deftly securing another victory through a defensive showcase. This adaptability reflects well on the Chargers’ head coach, Jim Harbaugh, whose strategic acumen has been evident in guiding the team through these early challenges.
The Chargers now face the Broncos, a team considered a potential dark horse this season. Intriguingly, Harbaugh and Broncos coach Sean Payton share ties dating back to their early days, a connection that adds an element of competitiveness to the matchup.
Looking ahead, the Chargers’ schedule includes potentially favorable games against the New York Giants, Miami Dolphins, and Tennessee Titans. Yet, as demonstrated by teams like the Indianapolis Colts, who have surprised with a 2-0 start, predictions remain risky.
Both the Chargers and their SoFi Stadium co-tenants, the Rams, have enjoyed a strong start, something not seen since 2001, sparking interest and hope for football fans in Los Angeles. The success of both teams in such a large market aligns with the NFL’s goals under the new Nielsen methodology, which places a premium on viewership data. With both franchises boasting exceptional quarterbacks and solid defenses, there’s optimism in the air.
As the NFL season unfolds, the Chargers’ promising start, coupled with the league’s strategic planning and the buzz generated by major markets, suggests that the team may be poised for a compelling season, potentially setting the stage for future Super Bowl aspirations at SoFi Stadium. While it’s still early days, the excitement surrounding the Chargers is palpable, and they will undoubtedly be a team to watch as the season progresses.