The Las Vegas Raiders and Los Angeles Chargers are set to renew their rivalry in Week 1 of the 2024 NFL season at SoFi Stadium. This divisional matchup is particularly intriguing as it marks the debut of Jim Harbaugh as the Chargers’ head coach, bringing new strategies and expectations to a team that underperformed last season. The Chargers finished with a 5-12 record in 2023, but they are eager to start fresh with a revamped coaching staff and a healthier roster. The Raiders, coming off an 8-9 season, aim to build on their late-season momentum under the leadership of quarterback Aidan O’Connell, who threw for over 2,200 yards and 13 touchdowns last season. Key offensive weapons like wide receiver Davante Adams, who recorded 1,144 receiving yards, will be crucial for Las Vegas as they try to exploit a Chargers defense that allowed an average of 23.4 points per game last season.

For the Chargers, quarterback Justin Herbert will be at the center of their offensive plans. Herbert, who threw for 3,134 yards and 23 touchdowns last season, will rely on his connection with receivers like Joshua Palmer and the running game led by Joshua Kelley. Defensively, the Chargers are anchored by stars like Khalil Mack, who recorded 17 sacks last season, and safety Derwin James Jr., who made 125 tackles. The defense will need to contain the Raiders’ balanced attack to have a chance to secure a home victory. This game could come down to which team makes fewer mistakes and executes better in critical situations. Both teams have talented rosters, but the Chargers’ home-field advantage and new coaching direction under Jim Harbaugh could provide them the edge.