Updated
Updated · Fox News · Aug 9
McIntyre Picks Chargers to Win AFC West as Herbert Eyes 3,650.5 Passing Yards
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Aug 9

McIntyre Picks Chargers to Win AFC West as Herbert Eyes 3,650.5 Passing Yards

1 articles · Updated · Fox News · Aug 9

Summary

  • Los Angeles is McIntyre’s surprise AFC West pick after an 11-6 season that ended with a 16-3 playoff loss to New England.
  • Mike McDaniel’s arrival as offensive coordinator drives the call, with McIntyre expecting the former Dolphins coach to unlock Justin Herbert more effectively.
  • Herbert’s betting outlook reflects that view: McIntyre likes the over on 3,650.5 passing yards and also sees value on 25.5 touchdown passes.
  • The case leans on Harbaugh’s track record—only one non-playoff season in six years as an NFL head coach—and a roster that kept Khalil Mack, upgraded at center and added first-rounder Akheem Mesidor.
  • The main risk is postseason credibility: Herbert is 0-3 in the playoffs, and McIntyre expects offensive gains to outweigh what could be a slightly weaker defense.

Insights

Are the Chargers finally built to win the AFC West, or is Justin Herbert still one playoff breakthrough away from proving the hype real?
If the Chargers’ defense slips in 2026, can Herbert, Ladd McConkey, and Omarion Hampton score enough to carry them to the division title?