Houston Texans vs. L.A. Chargers: NFL Week 9 predictions from Chronicle sports staff

INGLEWOOD, Calif. - The  Houston Texans will face the winless Los Angles Chargers on Sunday at SoFi Stadium, one week after their off week.  At 2-5, the Texans are desperate for a win in hopes of saving their season.  Here are our staff predictions:  Jonathan M. Alexander  Texans 23, Chargers 16 The Chargers' offense is one of the worst I've seen on film, and it's largely because quarterback Justin Herbert is making poor decisions. I'll give credit to the Chargers defense for keeping most of these games close. But I think the Texans' defense finally takes advantage of Herbert's mistakes this weekend.  Season record : 4-3 Reid Laymance  Texans 23, Chargers 19 This version of Justin Herbert isn't the same as the Texans have seen in previous years. It's the perfect match to give Houston's defense a boost.  Season record : 3-4 Greg Rajan Texans 27, Chargers 17 We've said before that losing to (fill in the blank) would be rock bottom for the Texans. This week, it's for real with the 0-7 Chargers. A loss to them would be cataclysmic for Houston and given this season, actually would be on brand. But C.J. Stroud won't let it happen in a return to his native Southern California.  Season record : 3-4 Peter Warren Texans 20, Chargers 13 The list of teams more disappointing than the Texans is a small one but the Chargers are definitely on it. Houston won't beat the doors down in Los Angeles but the defense puts in a strong performance and keeps hope alive for the coming weeks. Season record : 2-5 Matt Young Texans 20, Chargers 16 In a battle of desperate teams the winless Chargers are the most desperate. Still, fresh off a bye week, the Texans will do just enough to get a win.  Season record : 1-6 Subscribe There’s more to Houston with the Chronicle. Subscribe today for just 25¢. This article originally published at Houston Texans vs. L.A. Chargers: NFL Week 9 predictions from Chronicle sports staff .