### Justin Herbert's Absence Paves the Way for Broncos' Playoff Aspirations In a significant development for the NFL's Week 18, Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh announced that quarterback Justin Herbert will not start against the Denver Broncos. This decision comes as the Chargers, already playoff-bound, have little to gain from the game, while the Broncos are vying for the top seed in the AFC. The absence of Herbert, a Pro Bowl quarterback, is expected to bolster the Broncos' chances as they aim to secure home-field advantage in the playoffs. The Chargers will instead start Trey Lance, with DJ Ulagalelei as the backup, focusing on preserving Herbert's health for the postseason [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/justin-herbert-not-start-vs-222947619.html][https://www.denverpost.com/2025/12/29/justin-herbert-out-chargers-broncos-week-18]. ### Breakdown of the Situation and Implications 1. **Chargers' Decision to Rest Herbert** - The Chargers have already secured a playoff spot, making the Week 18 game against the Broncos less critical for them. This led to the decision to rest Herbert to ensure he is healthy for the playoffs [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/chargers-rest-starting-qb-vs-221447330.html]. 2. **Broncos' Playoff Stakes** - The Denver Broncos are in a competitive race for the AFC's top seed, needing a win against the Chargers to improve their playoff positioning. The absence of Herbert significantly enhances their chances [https://www.sportingnews.com/ca/nfl/denver-broncos/news/broncos-chances-1-seed-afc/730ab8ec13fc593d5ee6fd27]. 3. **Impact on Game Dynamics** - With Herbert out, the Chargers will start Trey Lance, who has less experience than Herbert. This change could affect the Chargers' offensive strategy and overall performance against a strong Broncos defense [https://www.denverpost.com/2025/12/29/justin-herbert-out-chargers-broncos-week-18]. 4. **Coaching Strategy** - Coach Jim Harbaugh emphasized the importance of player health, stating that they will prioritize resting players with injuries to ensure they are ready for the playoffs [https://bluewaterhealthyliving.com/news/national-news/california/jim-harbaugh-reveals-chargers-week-18-plan-for-starters]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Quarterback Changes**: - Justin Herbert (Pro Bowl QB) will not play. - Trey Lance will start, with DJ Ulagalelei as backup [https://redlandsdailyfacts.com/2025/12/29/justin-herbert-will-not-play-in-chargers-regular-season-finale-vs-broncos]. - **Playoff Implications**: - Broncos need a win to secure the No. 1 seed in the AFC, competing against the New England Patriots [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/chargers-rest-starting-qb-vs-221447330.html]. ### Conclusion: Strategic Moves Ahead of Playoffs 1. **Chargers' Focus on Health** - The decision to rest Herbert is strategic, aimed at ensuring he is fit for the playoffs, reflecting a long-term view rather than short-term gains [https://www.denverpost.com/2025/12/29/justin-herbert-out-chargers-broncos-week-18]. 2. **Broncos' Advantage** - The Broncos are likely to benefit from facing a less experienced quarterback, which could be pivotal in their quest for the top seed [https://www.sportingnews.com/ca/nfl/denver-broncos/news/broncos-chances-1-seed-afc/730ab8ec13fc593d5ee6fd27]. 3. **Game Dynamics Shift** - The change in quarterback for the Chargers may alter the dynamics of the game, potentially favoring the Broncos' strong defense [https://www.denverpost.com/2025/12/29/justin-herbert-out-chargers-broncos-week-18]. In summary, the Chargers' decision to rest Justin Herbert not only underscores their focus on playoff readiness but also significantly impacts the competitive landscape of the AFC as the Broncos aim for the top seed.