Patriots vs Chargers: Match Date, Kick-off Time and TV Channels – A Crucial NFL Wild Card Showdown
The NFL Wild Card showdown between the New England Patriots and the Los Angeles Chargers promises an exciting battle, as both teams aim to advance in the AFC Playoffs. Based on current betting lines and team performances, New England enters this matchup as the favorite.
Match Date Patriots vs Chargers and Game Details
The Patriots vs Chargers match date is set for Sunday, January 11, 2026, with kickoff scheduled for 8:15 p.m. ET. The game will be played at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, giving New England a valuable home-field advantage. Fans can watch the game live on NBC/Peacock, with live stats available on FOX Sports.
Patriots vs Chargers Odds and Betting Lines
According to the latest odds, the New England Patriots are favored by -3.5 points, indicating expectations of a close but controlled win. The total points line is set at 46.5, suggesting a moderately high-scoring game while still leaning toward a defensive battle.
Patriots vs Chargers Prediction and Best Picks
The prediction favors New England to secure the win in this AFC Wild Card matchup. The Patriots’ defense has been one of the most effective units this season, allowing just 18.8 points per game. Playing at home further strengthens their defensive impact.
While the Chargers’ offense, led by Justin Herbert, has shown strong production, it is expected to face difficulties against New England’s ninth-ranked pass defense, which limits opponents to 193.5 passing yards per game.
The projected final score for this matchup is Patriots 28, Chargers 17.
- Pick Against the Spread (ATS): Patriots (-3.5)
- Over/Under Pick: Under 46.5
- Final Prediction: Patriots 28 – Chargers 17
Patriots vs Chargers Recent Matchups Overview
Looking at recent history, New England holds a 3-2 record against Los Angeles in their last five meetings. During those games, the Chargers have scored 111 total points, while the Patriots have recorded 96 points, highlighting competitive and closely contested matchups.
New England Patriots Betting Trends and Team Performance
The Patriots have been reliable against the spread, posting an 11-6 ATS record this season. When favored by 3.5 points or more, New England has covered the spread seven times. Additionally, Patriots games have gone over the total in 64.7% of contests this year.
New England has also been dominant as a moneyline favorite, winning 10 of 11 games, which translates to an implied win probability of 65.8% for this matchup.
Key Players to Watch for the New England Patriots
Patriots Offensive Leaders
Drake Maye has been outstanding, ranking fourth in the NFL with 4,394 passing yards, averaging 258.5 yards per game, and throwing 31 touchdowns. He also adds mobility with 450 rushing yards and four rushing scores.
The running game features TreVeyon Henderson, who averages 5.1 yards per carry and has totaled 911 rushing yards with nine touchdowns. Rhamondre Stevenson adds depth with 603 rushing yards and seven touchdowns, along with valuable receiving contributions.
In the passing game, Stefon Diggs leads with 1,013 receiving yards, 85 receptions, and four touchdown catches.
Patriots Defensive Standouts
Defensively, Marcus Jones, Jaylinn Hawkins, and Robert Spillane have been key contributors, combining interceptions, sacks, and strong tackling. Harold Landry adds consistent pressure with 8.5 sacks this season.
Los Angeles Chargers Betting Trends and Outlook
The Chargers have covered the spread nine times this season and have been particularly dangerous as underdogs, winning four of five games when not favored. Despite this, the moneyline suggests Los Angeles has an implied win probability of 38.5% in this matchup.
Key Players to Watch for the Los Angeles Chargers
Justin Herbert has recorded 3,727 passing yards, 26 touchdowns, and adds value on the ground with 498 rushing yards. His top targets include Quentin Johnston, who has eight receiving touchdowns, and Ladd McConkey, who has posted 789 receiving yards.
The rushing attack is led by Omarion Hampton, who has 545 rushing yards, four touchdowns, and additional production as a receiver.
Chargers Defensive Playmakers
On defense, Tuli Tuipulotu has been dominant with 13 sacks, while Daiyan Henley and Derwin James anchor the unit with high tackle counts and multiple interceptions. Odafe Oweh also contributes steady pass-rushing pressure.
The Patriots vs Chargers Wild Card game sets up as a compelling clash between a disciplined New England defense and a talented Chargers offense. With home-field advantage and balanced production on both sides of the ball, the Patriots are well-positioned to cover the spread and advance in the AFC Playoffs.