The Jaguars beat the Jets on Thursday night, which increased the Chargers’ playoff chances from 82% to 86%, according to FiveThirtyEight.
New York losing to Jacksonville was one of the scenarios that needed to happen for Los Angeles to clinch a playoff berth this week.
Following the Jets’ loss, the Bolts now need to beat the Colts on Monday night, and the Patriots need to lose to the Bengals on Saturday night and the Raiders to lose to the Steelers on Christmas Eve.
Even if New England and Las Vegas win, a Chargers’ win over Indianapolis would increase their playoff chances to 99%.
While getting the help they need would be ideal, Los Angeles essentially controls its destiny. And a win this weekend and next weekend against the Rams would clinch a playoff spot.