A quick look at the New England Patriots possible playoff opponents

Los Angeles Chargers

Record: 8-7

Week 17 Opponent: Oakland Raiders

Week 17 Scenarios: Clinch a wild-card berth with a win combined with a Titans loss/tie and a Bills loss/tie, or a win combined with a Titans loss/tie and Ravens loss/tie, or a tie combined with a Titans loss and a Bills loss/tie

The Los Angeles Chargers and New England Patriots have already met this season, with the Patriots coming out on top 21-16. Los Angeles gave New England some problems, and it was a tougher game than many thought would occur.

Melvin Gordon was a nightmare for the Patriots as he rushed for 132 yards and a touchdown. A lot of that came on one long 87-yard play, but throughout the day he was an issue. The Patriots defense though was able to limit Phillip Rivers to 212 yards through the air. Travis Benjamin was the Chargers leading receiver with 64 yards and a score, but that’s not anything crazy.

If this matchup were to appear again in the playoffs, the Patriots would likely have some more success on offense. Rob Gronkowski should be counted on for more than he was able to do in the earlier game, and the addition of Kenny Britt and return of Chris Hogan could help stretch the field. New England would not have any problems with the Chargers as a playoff opponent. Los Angeles needs some help first to even get into the playoffs. Their best bet is a win and a Titans loss and Bills loss, but none of those three things happening is a given.