FOXBORO, Mass. — Jim Harbaugh burst into the locker room like the Kool-Aid Man. There was an open entrance, so he did not have to break down a wall. But considering the enthusiasm the Los Angeles Chargers coach was exuding, he probably could have shouldered through some drywall if necessary.

Justin Herbert threw three touchdown passes and the Los Angeles Chargers clinched their second playoff appearance in three seasons with a 40-7 victory over the New England Patriots

The Chargers beat the New England Patriots 40-7 to clinch their first playoff berth since 2022, which will be their third postseason appearance in 11 seasons.

Despite loss, Denver can still make the playoffs with a Week 18 win, while Cincinnati must win and receive some help.

After the Cincinnati Bengals narrowly beat the Denver Broncos, the AFC playoff picture has gotten a lot more complicated.