
The Los Angeles Chargers faced a disheartening defeat against the Houston Texans, marking yet another chapter in the saga of Chargering — a term that encapsulates the team’s uniquely painful ability to lose games. The latest incident unfolded during the Wild Card Weekend, where a two-play sequence epitomized their struggles.
After two disastrous drives ended with interceptions thrown by Justin Herbert, including a Pick-Six that put the Texans ahead 20-6, the Chargers found themselves in a precarious position early in the fourth quarter. With Houston applying pressure, the Chargers faced a daunting 3rd-and-26 situation deep in their territory, trailing by two touchdowns.
But in a surprising turn of events, Herbert managed to connect with rookie wide receiver Ladd McConkey, who turned a short pass into an impressive 86-yard touchdown. Suddenly, the Chargers were back in the game, narrowing the deficit to 20-12, with an opportunity to make it a one-score game.
Check out this incredible play:
LADD MCCONKEY GOES 86 YARDS ON 3RD AND 26!
: #LACvsHOU on CBS/Paramount+
: Stream on #NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/HY54nsLyeo— NFL (@NFL) January 12, 2025
With renewed hope, the Chargers lined up for the extra point, but disaster struck once again.
Houston’s special teams made a remarkable play, blocking the kick and returning it for a two-point conversion, extending their lead to 22-12. Despite Cameron Dicker’s efforts to recover the ball, the Texans capitalized on the miscue, solidifying their momentum.
.@HoustonTexans special teams making more plays! They return the blocked kick back for two!
: #LACvsHOU on CBS/Paramount+
: Stream on #NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/BCdKRKpICr— NFL (@NFL) January 12, 2025
In a swift turn of events, the momentum shifted back to the Texans, proving that Chargering is a phenomenon that can strike at any moment.
Even for the skeptics of momentum, the Chargers’ performance in this game highlighted the challenges they continue to face. The term “Chargering” has never felt more relevant, as the team struggles to break free from their history of heartbreaking losses.