Chargers vs kansas city chiefs match player stats
The chargers vs kansas city chiefs match player stats from December 14, 2025, tell the story of a closely contested AFC West matchup that ended with the Los Angeles Chargers defeating the Kansas City Chiefs 16-13. The Chargers combined efficient quarterback play, a productive rushing effort, and timely defensive takeaways to secure the victory. Justin Herbert threw for 210 yards and one touchdown, while Omarion Hampton led the ground game with 61 rushing yards. On the other side, Patrick Mahomes recorded 189 passing yards and one interception, while Travis Kelce led Kansas City’s receiving unit with 70 yards. The biggest difference came through the defensive performance: Los Angeles intercepted Kansas City twice and prevented the Chiefs from scoring a passing touchdown.
This game was more than a three-point divisional result. It highlighted how defensive pressure, turnover opportunities, red-zone execution, and special teams can shape an NFL contest even when the overall offensive production is relatively close. Kansas City finished with 211 receiving yards according to the individual receiving totals, while Los Angeles recorded 210. However, the Chargers found a way to turn their opportunities into enough points to win.
This article examines the individual performances, team statistics, quarterback efficiency, rushing and receiving contributions, defensive impact, and special teams numbers from the matchup. It also explains what the figures reveal about the way the game developed.
Chargers vs Kansas City Chiefs Match Player Stats: Game Overview
The December 14 meeting between the Los Angeles Chargers and Kansas City Chiefs was decided by a narrow margin. Los Angeles finished with 16 points, while Kansas City managed 13. The Chargers established an important advantage through their defensive takeaways and maintained control of the scoring margin during the second half.
NFL Regular Season
Final
File:Los Angeles Chargers logo.svg – Wikimedia Commons
Los Angeles Chargers
16
Winning team
How to Watch & Listen Chiefs Games | Kansas City Chiefs – Chiefs.com
Kansas City Chiefs
13
Final score
| Match information | Details |
| Date | December 14, 2025 |
| Competition | NFL |
| Winning team | Los Angeles Chargers |
| Chargers record | 10-4 |
| Chiefs record | 6-8 |
| Chargers away record | 4-2 |
| Chiefs home record | 5-3 |
Quarter-by-Quarter Scoring
The scoring pattern shows that Kansas City started with the early advantage, but Los Angeles responded before halftime and added another six points in the third quarter.
| Quarter | Chargers | Chiefs |
| First quarter | 3 | 7 |
| Second quarter | 7 | 6 |
| Third quarter | 6 | 0 |
| Fourth quarter | 0 | 0 |
| Final | 16 | 13 |
Kansas City scored seven points in the opening quarter. Los Angeles answered with seven in the second quarter, creating a competitive first-half contest.
The third quarter became particularly important. The Chargers scored six unanswered points, while the Chiefs failed to add to their total. Neither team scored in the fourth quarter, allowing Los Angeles to preserve its three-point advantage.
The final scoring pattern illustrates an important aspect of close NFL games: a team does not always need to dominate every quarter. It needs to make the most of its strongest periods and prevent its opponent from building momentum.
Justin Herbert vs Patrick Mahomes: Quarterback Statistics
Quarterback performance was one of the most important aspects of this matchup. Justin Herbert and Patrick Mahomes both faced defensive pressure, but their statistical contributions differed in passing efficiency, touchdown production, and turnovers.
Justin Herbert’s Passing Performance
Denver Broncos v Los Angeles Chargers – NFL 2025
Justin Herbert
Winning quarterback
210
Passing yards
Herbert completed 19 of his 29 passing attempts, producing a completion rate of approximately 65.5%. He recorded 210 passing yards, averaged 7.2 yards per attempt, and threw one touchdown against one interception.
| Passing statistic | Justin Herbert |
| Completions | 19 |
| Attempts | 29 |
| Completion percentage | 65.5% |
| Passing yards | 210 |
| Yards per attempt | 7.2 |
| Passing touchdowns | 1 |
| Interceptions | 1 |
| Sacks taken | 4 |
| Sack yards lost | 9 |
| QBR | 53.8 |
| Passer rating | 84.0 |
Herbert’s 7.2 yards per attempt indicates that his completed passes generated a reasonable amount of yardage. He also avoided losing substantial yardage on sacks, with four sacks accounting for nine yards.
His one passing touchdown was an important scoring contribution in a game where both offenses experienced difficulties converting opportunities into touchdowns.
However, the interception remains a relevant part of the evaluation. Even though Herbert helped lead the Chargers to victory, his performance was not completely mistake-free. His 84.0 passer rating provides a useful summary of his passing efficiency, while his 53.8 QBR offers another measure of his overall quarterback performance.
Patrick Mahomes’ Passing Performance
Indianapolis Colts v Kansas City Chiefs – NFL 2025
Patrick Mahomes
189
Passing yards
Mahomes completed 16 of his 28 passing attempts, finishing with 189 passing yards. His average was 6.8 yards per attempt. Unlike Herbert, he did not throw a passing touchdown and recorded one interception.
| Passing statistic | Patrick Mahomes |
| Completions | 16 |
| Attempts | 28 |
| Completion percentage | 57.1% |
| Passing yards | 189 |
| Yards per attempt | 6.8 |
| Passing touchdowns | 0 |
| Interceptions | 1 |
| Sacks taken | 5 |
| Sack yards lost | 21 |
| QBR | 56.1 |
| Passer rating | 62.9 |
Mahomes experienced more pressure than Herbert based on the supplied statistics. He was sacked five times and lost 21 yards through those plays.
His 57.1% completion rate was also lower than Herbert’s 65.5%. Kansas City still generated productive receiving performances from several players, but those contributions did not translate into a passing touchdown.
Mahomes did, however, contribute to the Chiefs’ only touchdown with his rushing performance. That distinction is important because his impact cannot be evaluated through passing numbers alone.
Gardner Minshew’s Limited Passing Appearance
Gardner Minshew II also appeared in the passing statistics for Kansas City.
| Statistic | Gardner Minshew II |
| Completions | 3 |
| Attempts | 5 |
| Passing yards | 22 |
| Completion percentage | 60.0% |
| Yards per attempt | 4.4 |
| Passing touchdowns | 0 |
| Interceptions | 1 |
| Sacks | 0 |
| QBR | 34.5 |
| Passer rating | 30.8 |
Minshew completed three of five attempts but threw an interception. His limited number of attempts means his statistics should be interpreted in context rather than compared directly with the full-game workloads of the starting quarterbacks.
Herbert vs Mahomes: Direct Comparison
| Category | Justin Herbert | Patrick Mahomes |
| Completions | 19 | 16 |
| Attempts | 29 | 28 |
| Completion rate | 65.5% | 57.1% |
| Passing yards | 210 | 189 |
| Yards per attempt | 7.2 | 6.8 |
| Passing TDs | 1 | 0 |
| Interceptions | 1 | 1 |
| Sacks | 4 | 5 |
| Passer rating | 84.0 | 62.9 |
| QBR | 53.8 | 56.1 |
Herbert finished ahead in passing yards, completion percentage, yards per attempt, touchdown passes, and passer rating.
Mahomes recorded a slightly higher QBR, according to the supplied figures. These two ratings use different calculations, so they should not be treated as interchangeable measurements.
The most meaningful distinction was the difference in passing touchdowns. Herbert produced one through the air, while Kansas City relied on Mahomes’ rushing touchdown for its only trip to the end zone.
Rushing Statistics: Chargers vs Chiefs Ground Game
The rushing game provided another important comparison between the two teams. Los Angeles recorded 94 rushing yards on 29 attempts, while Kansas City finished with 49 yards on 21 carries.
The Chargers averaged 3.2 yards per carry, compared with 2.3 for the Chiefs. Although neither rushing attack produced a high-volume performance, Los Angeles generated nearly twice as many rushing yards.
Los Angeles Chargers Rushing Leaders
Omarion Hampton and 4 More Must Start Running Backs in the Fantasy Football Championships
Omarion Hampton
61
Rushing yards on 15 carries
Hampton was the leading rusher for Los Angeles. He carried the football 15 times for 61 yards, averaging 4.1 yards per attempt. His longest run covered 26 yards.
| Chargers player | Carries | Rushing yards | Average | TD | Longest |
| Omarion Hampton | 15 | 61 | 4.1 | 0 | 26 |
| Kimani Vidal | 12 | 33 | 2.8 | 0 | 8 |
| Justin Herbert | 2 | 0 | 0.0 | 0 | 1 |
| Team total | 29 | 94 | 3.2 | 0 | 26 |
Hampton’s contribution was particularly useful because he supplied a consistent rushing option without requiring an unusually large number of attempts. His 26-yard longest run also gave the Chargers an opportunity to gain significant field position in a single play.
Kimani Vidal added 33 yards on 12 carries. His 2.8-yard average was lower than Hampton’s, but his involvement helped Los Angeles distribute the rushing workload.
Herbert recorded two rushing attempts for no net yards. His passing contribution remained the more significant part of his offensive performance.
Kansas City Chiefs Rushing Leaders
Los Angeles Chargers v Kansas City Chiefs – NFL 2025
Patrick Mahomes
15
Rushing yards and one touchdown
Mahomes was the most productive Kansas City player on the ground despite receiving only two rushing attempts. He gained 15 yards, averaged 7.5 yards per carry, and scored the Chiefs’ only touchdown.
| Chiefs player | Carries | Rushing yards | Average | TD | Longest |
| Isiah Pacheco | 11 | 21 | 1.9 | 0 | 7 |
| Patrick Mahomes | 2 | 15 | 7.5 | 1 | 12 |
| Kareem Hunt | 6 | 12 | 2.0 | 0 | 4 |
| Brashard Smith | 2 | 1 | 0.5 | 0 | 2 |
| Team total | 21 | 49 | 2.3 | 1 | 12 |
Isiah Pacheco carried the ball 11 times but gained only 21 yards. His 1.9-yard average suggests that the Chargers’ defensive front limited his ability to establish a productive running rhythm.
Kareem Hunt recorded 12 yards on six attempts, while Brashard Smith contributed one yard on two carries.
The most important rushing play for Kansas City came from Mahomes. His 12-yard touchdown run gave the Chiefs their early lead and accounted for their only touchdown of the afternoon.
Rushing Comparison and Key Takeaways
| Category | Chargers | Chiefs |
| Rushing attempts | 29 | 21 |
| Rushing yards | 94 | 49 |
| Average per carry | 3.2 | 2.3 |
| Rushing touchdowns | 0 | 1 |
| Longest run | 26 | 12 |
Los Angeles had the advantage in total rushing production, while Kansas City had the advantage in rushing touchdowns.
The difference of 45 rushing yards is significant in a game decided by three points. It suggests that the Chargers had more success generating ground yardage, even though they did not score a rushing touchdown.
Receiving Statistics: Top Chargers and Chiefs Pass Catchers
The receiving numbers show that both teams had productive individual contributors. However, their leading receivers played different roles in their respective offensive systems.
Los Angeles distributed the ball among several targets, with Keenan Allen, Oronde Gadsden, and Tre’ Harris all recording meaningful contributions.
Kansas City relied heavily on Travis Kelce and Rashee Rice, while Tyquan Thornton and Xavier Worthy provided additional downfield production.
Los Angeles Chargers Receiving Leaders
Oronde Gadsden II shatters Chargers franchise records in win over the Chiefs
Oronde Gadsden II
61
Receiving yards
Gadsden led the Chargers in receiving yards with four receptions for 61 yards. He averaged 15.3 yards per catch and recorded a longest reception of 27 yards.
| Chargers receiver | Receptions | Targets | Yards | Average | TD | Longest |
| Oronde Gadsden | 4 | 5 | 61 | 15.3 | 0 | 27 |
| Tre’ Harris | 3 | 5 | 49 | 16.3 | 0 | 37 |
| Keenan Allen | 5 | 7 | 36 | 7.2 | 0 | 12 |
| Ladd McConkey | 2 | 3 | 20 | 10.0 | 0 | 13 |
| KeAndre Lambert-Smith | 1 | 1 | 16 | 16.0 | 1 | 16 |
| Kimani Vidal | 1 | 1 | 15 | 15.0 | 0 | 15 |
| Scott Matlock | 2 | 2 | 9 | 4.5 | 0 | 5 |
| Omarion Hampton | 1 | 1 | 4 | 4.0 | 0 | 4 |
| Trevor Penning | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0.0 | 0 | 0 |
| Team total | 19 | 26 | 210 | 11.1 | 1 | 37 |
Tre’ Harris was another important contributor. He caught three passes for 49 yards, averaging 16.3 yards per reception. His longest catch covered 37 yards, making it the longest reception recorded by either team in the supplied receiving statistics.
Keenan Allen led the Chargers in receptions with five. He finished with 36 yards from seven targets. His contribution was based more on reception volume than explosive yardage.
Ladd McConkey added two receptions for 20 yards, while Kimani Vidal caught one pass for 15 yards. These contributions helped Herbert distribute the football rather than depend on a single receiver.
KeAndre Lambert-Smith’s Touchdown Contribution
KeAndre Lambert-Smith Highlight: First NFL TD
KeAndre Lambert-Smith
Chargers receiving touchdown
16 yards
One reception, one touchdown
Lambert-Smith made one reception for 16 yards, and that reception became one of the most important offensive plays of the game.
His touchdown came with only five seconds remaining in the second quarter. It reduced Kansas City’s lead from 13-3 to 13-10 and gave Los Angeles a much-needed scoring opportunity before halftime.
The timing made the play especially important. Instead of entering the break trailing by ten points, the Chargers went into halftime within three.
It was also the first NFL touchdown of Lambert-Smith’s career, making the play a significant individual milestone as well as a key moment in the game. The Chargers’ official recap confirms the late 60-yard scoring drive and the 16-yard touchdown reception.
Kansas City Chiefs Receiving Leaders
Los Angeles Chargers v Kansas City Chiefs
Travis Kelce
70
Receiving yards
Kelce was Kansas City’s leading receiver. He caught seven passes on nine targets for 70 yards, averaging 10.0 yards per reception.
| Chiefs receiver | Receptions | Targets | Yards | Average | TD | Longest |
| Travis Kelce | 7 | 9 | 70 | 10.0 | 0 | 17 |
| Rashee Rice | 7 | 11 | 51 | 7.3 | 0 | 11 |
| Tyquan Thornton | 2 | 3 | 47 | 23.5 | 0 | 26 |
| Xavier Worthy | 2 | 4 | 35 | 17.5 | 0 | 26 |
| Kareem Hunt | 1 | 2 | 8 | 8.0 | 0 | 8 |
| JuJu Smith-Schuster | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0.0 | 0 | 0 |
| Team total | 19 | 30 | 211 | 11.1 | 0 | 26 |
Kelce’s seven catches tied him with Rashee Rice for the most receptions on the Kansas City roster. However, Kelce gained 19 more receiving yards.
Rice also caught seven passes, finishing with 51 yards on 11 targets. His 7.3-yard average was lower than Kelce’s, reflecting a different receiving contribution.
Tyquan Thornton produced one of the most efficient receiving performances of the game. He caught two passes for 47 yards, averaging 23.5 yards per reception.
Xavier Worthy added 35 yards on two receptions. His 17.5-yard average demonstrated his ability to generate meaningful gains when given opportunities.
Kareem Hunt caught one pass for eight yards, while JuJu Smith-Schuster did not record a reception.
Receiving Comparison
| Category | Chargers | Chiefs |
| Receptions | 19 | 19 |
| Targets | 26 | 30 |
| Receiving yards | 210 | 211 |
| Average per reception | 11.1 | 11.1 |
| Receiving touchdowns | 1 | 0 |
| Longest reception | 37 | 26 |
The receiving totals are remarkably close. Kansas City recorded one more receiving yard, but Los Angeles produced the only passing touchdown.
This is a useful reminder that total receiving yardage does not automatically determine offensive success. The timing and scoring value of individual receptions matter just as much as the final yardage figure.
Defensive Player Stats: How the Chargers Limited Kansas City
Defense was arguably the defining factor in this contest.
The Chargers recorded two interceptions and five sacks according to the supplied team statistics. They also registered nine tackles for loss and nine quarterback hits.
Kansas City’s defense was active as well, recording four sacks, six tackles for loss, and 12 quarterback hits.
Chargers Defensive Statistics
| Defensive category | Chargers |
| Total tackles | 69 |
| Solo tackles | 36 |
| Sacks | 5 |
| Tackles for loss | 9 |
| Passes defended | 5 |
| Quarterback hits | 9 |
| Defensive touchdowns | 0 |
| Interceptions | 2 |
The Chargers’ ability to create turnovers was particularly important. Their two interceptions helped prevent Kansas City from maintaining offensive momentum.
The defensive unit also recorded five sacks, creating repeated pressure on the Chiefs’ quarterbacks.
Leading Chargers Defensive Players
| Player | Total tackles | Solo tackles | Sacks | TFL | Passes defended |
| Derwin James Jr. | 10 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| Denzel Perryman | 9 | 4 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
Los Angeles Chargers v Kansas City Chiefs – NFL 2025
Derwin James Jr.
10
Total tackles
James led the Chargers in total tackles with ten. He also recorded two passes defended and contributed an interception.
His performance reflected the value of having a versatile defensive back who can contribute in multiple areas. Tackling, coverage, and turnover creation all played a role in the Chargers’ defensive effort.
Denzel Perryman finished with nine tackles, including four solo tackles and one tackle for loss. His contribution helped the Chargers limit Kansas City’s rushing production.
Chiefs Defensive Statistics
| Defensive category | Chiefs |
| Total tackles | 72 |
| Solo tackles | 41 |
| Sacks | 4 |
| Tackles for loss | 6 |
| Passes defended | 3 |
| Quarterback hits | 12 |
| Defensive touchdowns | 0 |
| Interceptions | 1 |
Kansas City recorded more total tackles, solo tackles, and quarterback hits than Los Angeles. The Chiefs also generated four sacks.
These numbers show that the Kansas City defense was not passive. It consistently pressured Herbert and forced the Chargers to work for their offensive production.
Leading Kansas City Defensive Players
| Player | Total tackles | Solo tackles | Sacks | TFL | QB hits |
| Drue Tranquill | 14 | 8 | 0 | 1 | 1 |
| Nick Bolton | 11 | 5 | 0 | 1 | 1 |
Photos: Game Action from Week 15 | Chiefs vs. Chargers
Drue Tranquill
14
Total tackles
Tranquill led all listed defensive players with 14 tackles. Eight were solo tackles, demonstrating his involvement in stopping the Chargers’ offensive plays.
Nick Bolton added 11 tackles, including five solo stops. He also recorded one tackle for loss and one quarterback hit.
Interceptions and Turnover Battle
Turnovers were one of the most important statistical differences between the teams.
| Team | Interceptions recorded | Interceptions thrown |
| Chargers | 2 | 1 |
| Chiefs | 1 | 2 |
Derwin James Jr. and Daiyan Henley each recorded an interception for Los Angeles. Ashton Gillotte recorded the Chiefs’ interception against Herbert.
The most important takeaway is that Kansas City threw two interceptions across its quarterback appearances, while Los Angeles threw one.
That difference gave the Chargers a net advantage in the turnover battle.
Daiyan Henley’s interception was especially important late in the contest. With Kansas City threatening in the red zone during the fourth quarter, Henley made a crucial coverage play on a pass intended for Kareem Hunt. His interception helped preserve the Chargers’ three-point lead.
The official team recap describes this as a major defensive turning point. It demonstrates why defensive statistics should be examined alongside the scoring summary rather than in isolation.
Special Teams Player Stats: Kickers, Punters and Returners
Special teams contributed directly to the final scoring margin.
Both kickers converted every listed field goal attempt, but Cameron Dicker finished with three successful field goals compared with Harrison Butker’s two.
Chargers Kicking Statistics
Los Angeles Chargers v Kansas City Chiefs – NFL 2025
Cameron Dicker
10 points
Perfect field goal record
| Kicking category | Cameron Dicker |
| Field goals made | 3 |
| Field goal attempts | 3 |
| Field goal percentage | 100% |
| Longest field goal | 49 yards |
| Extra points made | 1 |
| Extra point attempts | 1 |
| Total points | 10 |
Dicker scored ten of Los Angeles’ 16 points. His three field goals included two successful kicks from 49 yards.
His performance was especially valuable because the Chargers did not score a rushing touchdown. Field goals supplied most of their scoring production and helped them maintain the advantage.
Chiefs Kicking Statistics
Detroit Lions v Kansas City Chiefs – NFL 2025
Harrison Butker
7 points
Perfect field goal record
| Kicking category | Harrison Butker |
| Field goals made | 2 |
| Field goal attempts | 2 |
| Field goal percentage | 100% |
| Longest field goal | 47 yards |
| Extra points made | 1 |
| Extra point attempts | 1 |
| Total points | 7 |
Butker converted both field goal attempts and his extra point. His seven points accounted for most of Kansas City’s scoring contribution.
Both kickers performed efficiently, but Dicker’s additional field goal was a major part of the final difference.
Punting Statistics
| Punter | Team | Punts | Total yards | Average | Inside 20 | Longest |
| JK Scott | Chargers | 4 | 150 | 37.5 | 3 | 48 |
| Matt Araiza | Chiefs | 4 | 190 | 47.5 | 1 | 57 |
Matt Araiza averaged ten more yards per punt than JK Scott. His longest punt traveled 57 yards, compared with Scott’s 48.
However, Scott placed three of his four punts inside the 20-yard line. Araiza placed one inside the same area.
This difference demonstrates that punting effectiveness is not measured by distance alone. Field position and the ability to make the opposing offense start deep in its own territory also matter.
Kick Return Statistics
| Returner | Team | Returns | Total yards | Average | Longest |
| KeAndre Lambert-Smith | Chargers | 4 | 93 | 23.3 | 34 |
| Nikko Remigio | Chiefs | 4 | 102 | 25.5 | 26 |
| Tyquan Thornton | Chiefs | 1 | 28 | 28.0 | 28 |
Kansas City generated 130 kickoff return yards on five returns, averaging 26.0 yards.
Los Angeles recorded 93 yards on four returns, averaging 23.3 yards.
The Chiefs had the advantage in total kickoff return yardage, but the Chargers still managed to win the game through their overall offensive and defensive contributions.
Punt Returns
Kansas City recorded one punt return for no yards through Nikko Remigio. The Chargers did not record a punt return.
Although punt return production was limited, it is useful to include these numbers when evaluating the complete special teams performance.
Team Statistics: Chargers vs Chiefs Full Comparison
The team statistics provide a broader explanation of how the game developed.
Los Angeles finished with 295 total net yards, compared with 239 for Kansas City. The Chargers also controlled possession for 34 minutes and 42 seconds, while the Chiefs held the football for 25 minutes and 18 seconds.
| Team statistic | Chargers | Chiefs |
| Final score | 16 | 13 |
| Total net yards | 295 | 239 |
| Rushing attempts | 29 | 21 |
| Rushing yards | 94 | 49 |
| Net passing yards | 201 | 190 |
| First downs | 18 | 17 |
| Third-down conversions | 5/14 | 6/13 |
| Third-down percentage | 35.7% | 46.2% |
| Sacks recorded | 5 | 4 |
| Interceptions recorded | 2 | 1 |
| Penalties | 5 | 9 |
| Penalty yards | 50 | 64 |
| Time of possession | 34:42 | 25:18 |
Total Offensive Production
The Chargers generated 295 total net yards, giving them a 56-yard advantage over Kansas City.
The difference came primarily from rushing production. Los Angeles recorded 94 rushing yards, while Kansas City managed only 49.
Passing production was much closer. The Chargers recorded 201 net passing yards, and the Chiefs recorded 190.
This combination allowed Los Angeles to maintain a modest offensive advantage without producing a high-scoring performance.
First Downs and Third-Down Efficiency
The Chargers recorded 18 first downs, one more than Kansas City’s 17.
However, the Chiefs had a better third-down conversion percentage.
Kansas City converted six of 13 third-down opportunities, compared with five of 14 for Los Angeles.
This is an important detail because it shows that the Chargers did not win every major statistical category. Kansas City was more efficient on third down, but that advantage did not translate into more points.
Penalties and Discipline
Los Angeles committed five penalties for 50 yards.
Kansas City committed nine penalties for 64 yards.
The difference of four penalties gave the Chargers an advantage in discipline and helped reduce the number of free yards surrendered.
Penalties can influence an NFL game in several ways:
- Defensive penalties can extend an opponent’s offensive drive.
- Offensive holding can create difficult down-and-distance situations.
- False starts can reduce the value of a successful offensive series.
- Personal fouls can change field position and scoring opportunities.
In a three-point game, avoiding unnecessary penalties is particularly important.
Time of Possession
The Chargers controlled the football for 34:42, compared with 25:18 for the Chiefs.
That represents a difference of 9 minutes and 24 seconds.
Longer possession can help a team in several ways. It gives the defense additional recovery time, reduces the opponent’s offensive opportunities, and allows the offense to control the rhythm of the game.
Los Angeles’ possession advantage was consistent with its higher rushing total and overall net yardage.
Key Moments That Decided the Game
The final score only tells part of the story. Several individual plays and statistical developments explain why Los Angeles finished with the victory.
1. Kansas City’s Early Scoring Advantage
The Chiefs started the game with a 7-0 lead after Mahomes scored on a 12-yard rushing touchdown.
Los Angeles responded with a 49-yard field goal from Cameron Dicker, but Kansas City continued to add points through two additional field goals.
With 13 points on the scoreboard, the Chiefs appeared to have control of the first half.
2. KeAndre Lambert-Smith Changed the Momentum
The Chargers’ most important offensive moment came with five seconds remaining in the second quarter.
Herbert connected with Lambert-Smith for a 16-yard touchdown, completing a quick scoring drive.
The touchdown reduced the deficit to 13-10 and gave Los Angeles a much better position heading into halftime.
3. Cameron Dicker Delivered Three Important Field Goals
Dicker converted field goals from 49, 23, and 49 yards.
His third successful field goal gave Los Angeles its final 16-13 advantage.
The Chargers did not score during the fourth quarter, making those earlier kicks particularly valuable.
4. Daiyan Henley Produced a Crucial Defensive Play
Kansas City threatened to score during the fourth quarter, but Henley intercepted a pass intended for Kareem Hunt near the goal line.
This prevented the Chiefs from converting a promising red-zone opportunity into points.
The interception helped Los Angeles maintain its narrow advantage.
5. The Chargers Finished With a Turnover Advantage
Los Angeles recorded two interceptions, while Kansas City recorded one.
The Chiefs also finished with two interceptions thrown across their quarterback appearances.
That turnover difference was especially important because the game was decided by only three points.
What the Statistics Reveal About Both Teams
Looking beyond the individual box score helps explain the overall performance of both teams.
Why the Chargers Won
Los Angeles did not dominate every statistical category. Kansas City had more quarterback hits, more total tackles, and better third-down efficiency.
However, the Chargers performed better in several areas that directly influenced the result.
Their main advantages included:
- Total offensive yards: 295 compared with 239.
- Rushing yards: 94 compared with 49.
- Time of possession: 34:42 compared with 25:18.
- Interceptions: Two defensive interceptions.
- Field goals: Three successful attempts.
- Penalties: Five compared with Kansas City’s nine.
The Chargers also benefited from Herbert’s passing touchdown to Lambert-Smith.
Their defensive performance prevented Kansas City from scoring through the air, forcing the Chiefs to rely on field goals and Mahomes’ rushing touchdown.
Why Kansas City Lost
Kansas City had several productive individual performances, particularly from Kelce, Rice, and Thornton.
Nevertheless, its offensive production lacked the scoring consistency required to win.
Three major problems stand out.
First, the passing game did not produce a touchdown.
Mahomes finished with 189 passing yards but no passing touchdowns. Minshew also failed to record a passing touchdown.
Second, the rushing attack struggled to generate yardage.
The Chiefs finished with 49 rushing yards on 21 attempts. Their 2.3-yard average made it difficult to consistently establish the ground game.
Third, turnovers interrupted offensive opportunities.
Two interceptions thrown by Kansas City created additional challenges for the offense.
These factors combined to limit the Chiefs to 13 points despite several productive receiving performances.
Important Statistical Details and Box Score Interpretation
When comparing NFL player statistics, it is important to understand the difference between individual passing yards, team passing yards, and net passing yards.
The figures supplied for this game include both gross and net passing production.
For example, Herbert recorded 210 individual passing yards. However, the Chargers finished with 201 net passing yards after accounting for nine sack yards lost.
Kansas City’s quarterbacks combined for 211 gross passing yards, but the Chiefs recorded 190 net passing yards after losing 21 yards through sacks.
This distinction explains why individual quarterback passing totals do not always match team net passing totals.
There is another important difference between receiving production and total passing production. Receiving yards represent the yards gained by players after catching passes, while passing statistics describe the quarterback’s passing output.
For accurate statistical comparisons, readers should avoid mixing these categories.
The official NFL official gamebook and match statistics provides the detailed team-level record for this contest.
Chargers vs Chiefs Match Player Stats: Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who won the Chargers vs Kansas City Chiefs game on December 14, 2025?
The Los Angeles Chargers defeated the Kansas City Chiefs 16-13 on December 14, 2025. The Chargers scored 16 points, while Kansas City finished with 13.
2. How many passing yards did Justin Herbert record against the Chiefs?
Justin Herbert recorded 210 passing yards on 19 completions from 29 attempts. He threw one touchdown and one interception and finished with an 84.0 passer rating.
3. How many passing yards did Patrick Mahomes record?
Patrick Mahomes recorded 189 passing yards on 16 completions from 28 attempts. He threw no passing touchdowns and recorded one interception. He also scored one rushing touchdown.
4. Who was the leading rusher in the game?
Omarion Hampton led all listed players with 61 rushing yards on 15 carries for the Chargers. He averaged 4.1 yards per carry and recorded a longest run of 26 yards.
5. Who led the game in receiving yards?
Travis Kelce led the Kansas City Chiefs with 70 receiving yards on seven catches. Oronde Gadsden was the leading Chargers receiver with 61 yards on four receptions.
6. Which team recorded more interceptions?
The Chargers recorded two defensive interceptions, while the Chiefs recorded one. Kansas City’s quarterbacks threw two interceptions, compared with one thrown by Herbert.
Conclusion
The December 14, 2025, matchup between the Los Angeles Chargers and Kansas City Chiefs demonstrated how small statistical advantages can determine the outcome of a close NFL game.
Los Angeles secured a 16-13 victory through a combination of productive quarterback play, a more effective rushing attack, reliable kicking, and important defensive takeaways.
Justin Herbert completed 19 of 29 passes for 210 yards and one touchdown. Omarion Hampton led the rushing attack with 61 yards, while Oronde Gadsden contributed 61 receiving yards. KeAndre Lambert-Smith provided the Chargers’ only passing touchdown, and Cameron Dicker converted all three of his field goal attempts.
Kansas City also had notable individual performances. Patrick Mahomes recorded 189 passing yards and one rushing touchdown, Travis Kelce led the receiving group with 70 yards, and Drue Tranquill finished with 14 tackles.
However, the Chiefs struggled to establish their rushing offense and failed to produce a passing touchdown. Their two interceptions also made it difficult to maintain offensive momentum.
Ultimately, the Chargers’ defensive execution, advantage in total yardage, and ability to convert scoring opportunities made the difference. The final numbers show that this was a competitive divisional matchup in which defensive plays and special teams contributions were just as important as quarterback statistics.
