Can the Chargers Complete the AFC West Sweep?
The Los Angeles Chargers are off to a blistering start in the 2025 NFL season, dispatching both the Kansas City Chiefs and Las Vegas Raiders in back-to-back statement wins. The Bolts now stand on the brink of a rare early-season feat: a clean sweep of their AFC West rivals in the first three weeks. With the Denver Broncos coming to town, the Chargers face their final AFC West hurdle. Denver, led by rookie QB Bo Nix, is still searching for consistency after a heartbreaking 29-28 loss to the Indianapolis Colts. Chargers QB Justin Herbert has yet to throw an interception this season and ranks among the league’s top quarterbacks in air yards and success rate.
The stakes are high: a win not only gives Los Angeles a perfect three-win divisional record but also sends a message that the AFC West crown is up for grabs. With Jim Harbaugh’s aggressive play-calling and a defense that just held the Raiders without a touchdown, the Chargers look poised to seize control of the division. On the other hand, Denver’s defense, ranked ninth against the pass, could make this a tough feat. The Chargers were given a significant blow heading into Week Three with the news that star edge rusher Khalil Mack is being placed on injured reserve due to a dislocated elbow. Mack’s early-season impact was undeniable—he anchored the pass rush, commanded double teams, and brought veteran leadership to a defense already adjusting to life without Joey Bosa. His absence now forces a reshuffling of the defensive front at a critical time in the season.
As Los Angeles prepares to face the Denver Broncos, Mack’s injury couldn’t come at a more inconvenient time. Denver’s offensive line has been quietly effective, allowing minimal pressure on its quarterback. Without Mack collapsing the edge, the Chargers will need to rely heavily on the other defensive players to generate pressure. Defense coordinator Jesse Minter may dial up more blitzes or lean on disguised coverages to compensate, but the margin for error shrinks without their most disruptive defender. Week Three now becomes a test—not just for the Chargers’ defensive resilience, but for their ability to adapt and maintain momentum.
The Chargers can win this game by leaning into their strengths and adapting smartly to Khalil Mack’s absence. On offense, Justin Herbert must continue to play efficiently to exploit Denver’s secondary. Establishing the run with RB Najee Harris will be key to controlling the tempo, especially against a Broncos defense that gave up over 160 rushing yards in Week Two. If the Chargers can win the turnover battle, maintain offensive rhythm, and finish strong—especially in the fourth quarter—they’ll be well positioned to complete the AFC West sweep and solidify their early-season dominance.
