DENVER — The Los Angeles Chargers are gearing up for their regular-season finale against the Denver Broncos, set to kick off at 1:25 p.m. PT on Sunday. With playoff implications hanging in the balance, both teams are preparing for a game that could impact their postseason trajectories.

The Chargers enter this matchup as underdogs, having clinched a Wild Card spot already. However, the atmosphere will be notably different as quarterback Justin Herbert will not take the field due to injuries sustained during the season. Coach Jim Harbaugh noted that Herbert, despite his efforts, has been managing significant bruises, including a broken left hand that has hindered his performance in recent weeks.

In Herbert’s absence, Trey Lance will make only his sixth career start for the Chargers. Offensive Coordinator Greg Roman expressed enthusiasm about Lance’s opportunity, emphasizing the supportive dynamic between the two quarterbacks. “It’s a great chance for him to step up and lead,” Roman said, highlighting the potential for innovative plays with Lance under center.

The Chargers have enjoyed a successful season, finishing with 11 wins, but as they approach this game, the focus will also be on rest and rehabilitation for other key players. It remains uncertain whether additional starters will be held back, as the team balances the desire for an impactful showing against the necessity of maintaining player health.

While the Chargers aim to end the season on a high note, the Broncos will be hungry for a victory of their own. With a record of 13 wins, Denver is in the hunt for the top seed in the playoffs, underscoring the competitive atmosphere of the game. Despite any roster changes on the Chargers’ side, Defensive Coordinator Jesse Minter affirmed his team’s intent, stating, “We’re going there to win.”

As both teams prepare on this pivotal weekend, the Chargers are also looking ahead to the playoffs, which will kick off shortly after the conclusion of the regular season. The specific seed they will occupy—ranging between fifth and seventh—remains uncertain, contingent on the outcomes of other games.

Harbaugh acknowledged the unpredictability of the playoff landscape, stating, “We have to let the games play out. Our focus is on winning this one before we turn our sights to the postseason.” With so much at stake, fans can expect a thrilling contest that will set the tone for what lies ahead as the postseason beckons.