Why Week Two Could Cement the Chargers as the AFC West Favorites
Week Two of the 2025 NFL season presents a pivotal moment for the Los Angeles Chargers—a chance to not just build momentum, but to stake their claim as the team to beat in the AFC West. Fresh off a statement win over the reigning conference champion Kansas City Chiefs, the Chargers now face the Las Vegas Raiders in a high-stakes Monday night showdown. With Justin Herbert already delivering an MVP-caliber performance and Jim Harbaugh’s team showing early signs of balance and resilience, a second consecutive divisional victory would not only put them atop the standings but also signal a power shift in a division long dominated by Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs. If Los Angeles can silence the Raiders, Week Two could mark the moment the Bolts truly take control of the West.
Although the Chargers’ Week Two matchup against the Raiders is more than just a divisional clash—it’s a test for how well Jim Harbaugh’s system is taking root. In Week One, Los Angeles showcased a revitalized defense that stifled Kansas City’s high-powered offense, while Herbert operated with poise and precision behind a newly improved offensive line. If the Chargers can replicate that success against a Raiders team looking for consistency, it would underscore their ability to win tough road games and dominate within the division. While it is still very early in the season, Week Two offers the Chargers a rare opportunity to set the tone months ahead. Momentum in the NFL can be fleeting, but establishing dominance within the division from the beginning can help later—especially in the tightly contested AFC West. A win over the Raiders would give Los Angeles a 2-0 start, and it would send a clear message that this team isn’t just talented on paper. Early success also builds confidence in Harbaugh’s new system.
On the other hand, a strong start doesn’t guarantee a smooth ride. The Chargers have shown flashes of brilliance before, only to be derailed by injuries, inconsistency, or late-game collapses. If they stumble in Week Two, it could reignite doubts about their ability to finish what they start. A loss would not only level their divisional record but also hand momentum back to rivals like Kansas City or Denver, who are always lurking. More importantly, it could shake early confidence in Harbaugh’s leadership and expose lingering weaknesses—whether in depth, discipline, or execution. In a division where margins are razor-thin, missing the chance to set the tone early could mean playing catch-up for the rest of the season.
To shape their season with a win over the Raiders, the Chargers need to execute with precision on both sides of the ball. Offensively, protecting Justin Herbert from the Raiders’ pass rush is essential, while establishing a balanced attack through the run game will help control tempo and open up play-action opportunities. Defensively, they must contain Geno Smith and prevent explosive plays that could swing momentum. Discipline in the secondary and dominance at the line of scrimmage will be key to neutralizing Las Vegas’ weapons.
