:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/57926595/186756390.jpg.0.jpg)
The Los Angeles Chargers (6-6) need a win today to keep up with the Kansas City Chiefs (7-6) who destroyed the Oakland Raiders (6-7) during the morning slate of games. Standing in their way will be the NFC East’s Washington Redskins (5-7).
Philip Rivers and the Chargers offense are facing a slightly above average defensive unit (12th by DVOA) led by cornerback Josh Norman and a pair of solid edge defenders in Junior Galette and Preston Smith.
On the defensive side of the ball, Joey Bosa, Melvin Ingram, and Casey Hayward have to deal with an offense quarterbacked by Kirk Cousins. While Cousins has had a reasonably effective season, he will be without some of his better weapons. Running back Chris Thompson was lost for the season and tight end Jordan Reed continues to be perpetually injured. Both of Washington’s offensive tackles are active, but they are also dealing with injuries and could struggle to cope with a Chargers pass rush that is among the very best in the NFL.