Sun Jan 05 04:10:00 UTC 2025: **Chargers Coach Harbaugh: Playoff Berth Won’t Mean Resting Starters**
LOS ANGELES – The Los Angeles Chargers have clinched a playoff berth, but the question remains whether head coach Brandon Staley will rest key starters in their final regular season game against the Las Vegas Raiders this Sunday. While the risk of injury looms large – a concern highlighted by Mike Williams’ season-ending injury in a similar situation two years ago – Staley has indicated he intends to field his strongest lineup.
“We’re going to be playing to win at all times,” Staley said on the “Let’s Go Podcast.” Echoing the sentiment of team captain Derwin James, who prefers an 11-win season to a 10-win one, Staley dismissed the idea of resting starters, stating, “What are we going to do? Dress 25 guys for the game?”
The Chargers’ final seeding (fifth or sixth) depends on the outcome of the Saturday game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cincinnati Bengals. A Steelers loss necessitates a Chargers win over the Raiders to secure the fifth seed; a Steelers victory locks the Chargers into the sixth seed.
However, some players, such as edge defender Joey Bosa, expressed concerns about the potential for rust from a lack of game action. Bosa, still recovering from injury, emphasized the importance of maintaining game sharpness heading into the playoffs. The decision on starter participation will be made in the coming days. The Chargers’ approach to this crucial game will be closely watched as they prepare for the postseason.
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