Chargers HC Jim Harbaugh gives a somber farewell to the Texans after the loss

The The Los Angeles Chargers’ playoff hopes have been abruptly ended on Saturday after suffering a 32-12 loss Houston Texas in the AFC Wild Card round. After the game, the first-year Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh acknowledged supremacy Texans, saying, “They were the better team today. Kudos to them,” via Thuc Nhi Nguyen on X, formerly Twitter.

chargers quarterback Justin Herbert endured one of the worst performances of his career at the most inopportune time. Known for his efficiency and composure, Herbert threw a career-high four interceptions against a stifling Texas defense led by All-Pro cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. and safety Eric Murray. Herbert, who threw just three interceptions all regular season, struggled to find his rhythm, finishing with 242 passing yards, one touchdown and a 40.9 passer rating.

Herbert’s costly mistakes included a 38 yard pick-six by Murray in the third quarter that extended Houston’s lead to 20-6. Another interception, caused by a tip from Will Dissley’s hand, was picked off by Stingley, sealing the game for the Texans.

Jim Harbaugh’s Chargers were eliminated in the Wild Card after a poor performance by Justin Herber

The Texans’ defense was the star of the day, neutralizing the Chargers’ offensive weapons and constantly pressuring Herbert. Stingley, Kamari Lassiter and Murray each had tackles, while the pass rush recorded four touchdowns. Despite Houston’s offense having its issues, the defense provided a much-needed boost to secure the win.

CJ Stroud, Houston’s second-year quarterback, contributed 282 passing yards and a touchdown. Stroud connected with Nick Collins for a 13-yard touchdown late in the first half to give the Texans a lead they never relinquished. Joe Mixon added 106 yards and a touchdown, while Collins posted seven catches for 122 yards.

The Chargers’ struggles in key moments continued to haunt them. Despite an early 6-0 lead, Los Angeles was unable to capitalize on turnovers or sustain offense. The blocked extra point in the fourth quarter, which Houston returned for two points, epitomized the team’s mistakes.

Harbaugh, who led the Chargers back to the playoffs for the first time since 2018. expressed disappointment in the result, but praised his team’s resilience. “We’ve had a lot of growth this season, but today wasn’t the best,” Harbaugh said in his postgame press conference.

For the Texans, the win marked their second straight Wild Card victory and showed a defense capable of making a deep postseason run. Meanwhile, the Chargers were left to reassess after another early playoff exit, searching for answers on how to turn regular-season success into postseason victories.