The Chargers are on the road Sunday with a date against the Kansas City Chiefs. Kickoff is at 10 a.m. (PT) from Arrowhead Stadium.
The Chargers-Chiefs betting line shows the Bolts are slight underdogs on Sunday.
Here are five final thoughts ahead of Week 15.
1. Another Chargers-Chiefs clash
The Chargers aren't buying it.
They don't believe the Chiefs season is over and done with. Nor do they think Sunday will be a walk in the park.
As the Chargers head to Arrowhead Stadium for a Week 15 AFC West clash, Justin Herbert and Co. expect the same hostile environment and yet another close game against a team that has been the standard bearer across the NFL for the better part of a decade.
"Still as loud as we've ever expected," Herbert said this week. "They're still a very, very good football team and we have a ton of respect for them. They're much better than their record indicates as well.
"They've played a lot of tough games, a lot of close games and that's the NFL. That's the unfortunate part, you're not going to go in there and dominate any team willy nilly," Herbert added. "They're very good and we have to be on our stuff this week."
Entering Sunday, the Chargers and Chiefs each find themselves in unique spots.
Jim Harbaugh's squad is 9-4 and in a Wild Card spot in the AFC playoff picture.
According to The Athletic, the Chargers currently have a 78 percent chance to make the playoffs, a number that can soar to 95 percent with a win Sunday.
The Chiefs, meanwhile, are 6-7 and in danger of missing the playoffs for the first time in a decade. The Athletic has Kansas City's playoff odds at 12 percent, and they go under 1 percent with a loss to the Chargers.
In other words, the Bolts expect the Chiefs best effort — and maybe the kitchen sink — in Week 15.
"I expect that every time you go out there, guys are going to play desperate to win because they just want to win no matter the team, no matter the record," Derwin James, Jr. said. "If you're 9-4 and you aren't playing like you're desperate, then you're in trouble, too.
"We desperate. They desperate. Let's go out there and play," James added.
Harbaugh noted: "It's that time of the season where everybody is competing. Lay it on the line, a lot of cliches you can fill in right there. But everybody is fighting for their playoff lives, their football lives. That's what it's going to be. Going to be great noise, a competitive environment."
The Chargers on Sunday can grab their 10th win, which would mean consecutive double-digit win seasons for the first time since 2006 and 2007.
The Bolts, of course, can also secure a season sweep of the Chiefs, something that hasn't happened since 2013.
The Chargers and Chiefs usually play each other close, with plenty of classic games over the years.
If the Bolts can find a way to win this one, they could take a massive step toward the postseason — and make sure their biggest rival is sitting at home in January.
"I expect Arrowhead to be just as it's been in the past," Daiyan Henley said. "And the reason I expect that is that they still have a hell of a team over there and a hell of a quarterback and offense in general, plus a coach who has been a winner for a long time.
"I expect Arrowhead to have a huge vibe so we need to walk in with a steady head and calm spirits knowing that we have to get our job done," Henley continued.
"We're trying to win. We understand what we're fighting for right now and it's about controlling our destiny," Henley added.
2. The finale of James vs. Kelce?
Way back in Week 1 of the 2018 season, James made his NFL debut against the Chiefs.
It was Chapter 1 of what has evolved into a legendary rivalry with tight end Travis Kelce, who was limited to just one catch for six yards on that day.
Now, as the 2025 season heads into the final month, there's a chance that this could be Kelce's final season.
While he remains undecided on that, it means that Sunday could also be the final chapter of the James-Kelce saga.
"Dang, I hadn't even thought about it. But I hope it's not [our last matchup]," James said.
He later added: "Lot of respect, Hall of Famer, you know how many battles we've had. I think this is my 12th game playing them. I'm just excited to go compete. If it is [his last season], I want to compete at a high level."
James and Kelce have produced some memorable moments over the years, with each player having the upper hand at times.
James said this week that going up against No. 87 one final time would be a "full circle" moment considering this will be James' 12th career game against Kansas City.
James added there are very few players he had enjoyed competing against.
"Just the respect we have for each other. I respect him and he respects me," James said. "It's always high competition and we're each just always trying to make a play for our team."
"Even during the game, it's always been a healthy and good relationship," James added.
Entering Week 15, Kelce's Hall of Fame resumé is secure. He is the Chiefs all-time leader in receptions (1,064), receiving yards (12,878) and receiving touchdowns (82).
"One of the best tight ends to ever play the game," James said.
Check out the best photos from practice on Wednesday at The Bolt in El Segundo!
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
3. Hart back in at RT
Coming out of the bye week, the Chargers settled on an offensive line combination they hoped would last them through the rest of the season.
That group, from left to right, was made up of Jamaree Salyer, Zion Johnson, Bradley Bozeman, Mekhi Becton and Trey Pipkins III.
The starting five was strong in a win against the Raiders, but their time together was also short-lived as Pipkins suffered an ankle injury in the second quarter Monday night and didn't return.
With Pipkins ruled out for Sunday, Bobby Hart will return to the starting lineup as the Bolts roll out their ninth starting combo up front in 2025.
"I think we're really lucky to have Bobby," Herbert said. "A guy that is able to play guard, tackle and has stepped in a few times when guys have gone down.
"You can never have enough guys like that, especially on the offensive line with how many injuries that happen to offensive linemen each year," Herbert added. "Bobby is great teammate, great locker room guy and it's really fun to play behind him."
Hart has already started four games this season from Weeks 6 to 9 and is more than ready to do so again for the stretch run.
"Find a way," Hart said of his mindset. "Whatever is necessary to get this team a W and continue to push us one step closer to our goal of being what we want to be, I'll be for this team."
Hart's play has been a key storyline this season, especially considering he didn't see the field in recent seasons.
Before Hart stepped in earlier this season, he last played in an NFL game in 2022. And his most-recent start was way back in the 2021 season.
"It's been a blessing, a dream come true to be able to come to an organization like this," Hart said.
He later added: "Everybody on the offensive line has helped me tremendously. Everybody. It's been a group effort making me feel at home and chasing wins."
Check out the best photos from practice on Thursday at The Bolt in El Segundo!
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
The Los Angeles Chargers practice at Training Camp on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at The Bolt in El Segundo, CA.
4. Jackson finding the ball
Don't look now, but Donte Jackson has quietly put together one of the best seasons of his career.
According to Pro Football Focus, Jackson's 82.8 coverage grade ranks third among cornerbacks with at least 200 coverage snaps this season.
And his overall defensive PFF grade of 80.6 ranks fourth among cornerbacks with at least 340 snaps in 2025.
"He's getting better and better, honestly," Chargers Defensive Coordinator Jesse Minter said of the 30-year-old Jackson. "He's getting really detailed in his approach and how he sees things, how he sees routes.
"He's learned a lot about how we try to play and he's always had really good instincts and really good ball awareness," Minter continued. "We talked about it in the offseason, he came in with a good amount of interceptions.
"We sort of hoped and saw that could be the type of guy he could be in our defense," Minter added. "Particularly in the last few weeks, it's really come to fruition."
Jackson had an interception Monday night to bring his season total to four, which is one off his career high he set last season in Pittsburgh.
And, as Minter mentioned above, Jackson has been hot of late with three interceptions in his past four games.
"I always like to think of myself as a ball guy, a guy who can change the game just by going to find the ball," Jackson said. "But getting to a defense where the defensive coordinator, Coach Minter, is all about putting guys in situations where they can be confident and they can go out there and play fast, that's really what I've been doing.
"Just taking what I've always done and coming here in a different scheme, fine tuning it, fine tuning my coverage, my eyes and being able to know when I can go and take chances," Jackson continued. "Just playing with that confidence is allowing me to go make those plays for the team.
"When you can be in good coverage and do that consistently, at some point you're going to get a chance to go and make a play on the ball," Jackson added. "That's kind of how I see it, I like to be tight in coverage so when I do get that chance to go and make a play on the ball, it can find me."
Jackson now has 23 career interceptions, good for ninth among active players.
5. Get ready for cold weather
A week ago, it looked as if the Chargers and Chiefs were going to square off on a nice 40-degree day at Arrowhead.
Not anymore.
According to weather.com as of early Friday afternoon, Sunday's high temperature in Kansas City is expected to be 21 degrees.
In other words, get ready for one of the coldest games in Chargers history.
Because while the high will be 21, the temperature is projected to be only 14 degrees, which would make it the third-coldest game in Bolts history.
And that doesn't factor in the wind chill, which could bring the real-feel conditions down into single digits.
The Chargers response? Bring it on.
"December football, that's what you grow up watching on TV," James said. "I lived in Florida my whole life so I always grew up wanting to watch and play in those games like a snow game or a big game."
Henley added: "Football weather is anytime we're on the field. It doesn't matter if it's freezing cold or burning hot, we'll be ready to play."
Harbaugh on Friday offered up some advice on dealing with frigid conditions.
"I personally feel like an expert when it comes to dealing with cold weather," Harbaugh said. "You're young, your body is pumping warm, hot blood. Get your feet moving and keep them moving.
"When they come to the sideline, we'll have heated benches and those kinds of things," Harbaugh said. "But your body is like a human hot tub. It keeps you warm."
