The Chargers will do all they can to win their first game of the 2026 season. 

Los Angeles remains the only winless team in the NFL. They are certainly one of the league's more disappointing teams, and the Texans are in the same boat. 

The Chargers (0-7) will host the Texans (2-5) this Sunday. The two teams are nowhere near where they expected to be, but they'll hope this week helps one of them turn the tide. 

Here are four bold predictions for Week 9.

Justin Herbert throws for 300+ yards and one touchdown

Herbert is coming off a season-high 257 passing yards. The 28-year-old completed 24 of 32 passes, another season-high. Although he recorded two interceptions, Herbert showed clear signs of improvement. Houston's defense allows 244 passing yards per game, the fifth-most in the NFL, which helps Herbert build on his Week 8 performance. 

Chargers force C.J. Stroud into two turnovers

The Chargers' defense is far and away their best unit of the three. I expect them to wreak some havoc on Stroud, although he has taken exceptional care of the football. Stroud has 11 touchdowns to just one interception and no fumbles. However, I'm predicting the Texans quarterback has at least one interception and a forced fumble. 

Chargers running backs combine for 100+ rushing yards

The Chargers offense hasn't rushed for 75+ in their last two games. Los Angeles rushed for 64 yards against the Rams, averaging 2.6 yards per carry. Omarion Hampton could see an increased role in the backfield, with a fierce pass rush led by Will Anderson and Danielle Hunter. The Texans' rush defense is allowing 3.8 yards per carry (9th) and 98.0 yards per game (11th). While the Chargers' rush offense hasn't been what we expected, I think they'll find a better groove in Week 9, despite their opponent. 

Chargers score two touchdowns

After going 27 consecutive offensive drives without scoring a touchdown, the Chargers will get in the end zone, not once, but twice. One of those touchdowns will come through the air, while the other will be on the ground.