Overview
- Denver secured its first division title since 2015 after Houston beat the Chargers 20-16, guaranteeing a home playoff game.
- The crown halts Kansas City’s nine-year hold on the AFC West, a season for the Chiefs marked by injuries including Patrick Mahomes’ knee issue.
- At 13-3, the Broncos remain in contention for the AFC’s top seed, which could be decided by other results or by a Week 18 win if the scenario persists.
- Sean Payton reiterated the team’s season-long goals of the division, best possible seed and Super Bowl, while Bo Nix emphasized focusing on finishing Week 18.
- Los Angeles enters 11-5 with a playoff spot clinched, and under Jim Harbaugh the Chargers have beaten Denver in all three 2025 matchups as Justin Herbert targets a sharper finish.