When Was the Last Time the Chargers Beat the Chiefs? A Look at the Division Rivals’ Recent History

The Los Angeles Chargers and Kansas City Chiefs have long been locked in one of the AFC West’s most enduring rivalries. But in recent years, the matchup has tilted heavily in favor of the reigning Super Bowl runner-ups.

Here’s how the records look after the Chargers won 27-21 against the Chiefs in Week 1.

When Did the Chargers Last Defeat the Chiefs?

Prior to tonight’s win, the last time the Chargers defeated the Chiefs was September 26, 2021, when Justin Herbert led Los Angeles to a 30–24 victory at Arrowhead Stadium.

Herbert threw for four touchdowns, including the game-winner to recently retired Mike Williams with 32 seconds remaining. It was a signature win for the young quarterback and a rare blemish on Patrick Mahomes’ home record.

Since then, the Chiefs won seven straight games against the Chargers, including a 19–17 nail-biter in their most recent meeting on December 8, 2024.

Like many in the series, that game was decided in the final minutes. Kansas City kicker Matthew Wright banked a 31-yard field goal off the upright to seal the win.

Despite the losing streak, the Chargers have remained competitive. Five of the last seven losses have been decided by one score, and Los Angeles has held a fourth-quarter lead in several of those contests. The rivalry has been defined more by dramatic finishes than blowouts.

After the Chargers’ 27-21 win, the Chiefs currently lead the all-time series 71–59–1. Their dominance has coincided with Mahomes’ rise and Andy Reid’s steady leadership. Since Reid took over in 2013, Kansas City has lost to the Chargers just five times.

As the teams opened the 2025 season in São Paulo, Brazil, the Chargers ended the streak to reset the narrative. With Jim Harbaugh entering his second year as head coach and a revamped roster featuring rookie running back Omarion Hampton and the return of veteran Keenan Allen, Los Angeles will hope to ride the momentum.

Herbert completed 25/34 of his throws for 318 yards, three touchdowns, and no interceptions. He also rushed for 36 yards on four carries, including a game-sealing run of 19 yards.

JUSTIN HERBERT CALLS GAME. WHAT A NIGHT.

KCvsLAC on YouTube https://t.co/JVXS9sMrs3 pic.twitter.com/SslSt8mKPd

— NFL (@NFL) September 6, 2025

It was a great bounce-back game from the Chargers quarterback after his shocking performance in last season’s loss in the Wild Card round against the Houston Texans.

In the first half, the Chargers’ defense made its presence felt, limiting Mahomes to short gains and forcing three punts. Kansas City got a pair of Harrison Butker field goals, including a dramatic 59-yarder to end the half, but the Chiefs have struggled to find rhythm against a retooled Los Angeles front.

The Chargers will play against the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 2 and will be in a prime position to start the season 2-0. As for the Chiefs, they’ll be up against the Philadelphia Eagles, in what will be a rematch of last season’s Super Bowl.

This Chargers’ win against the Chiefs could prove crucial at the end of the season in the race to win the division. It will be interesting to see how Kansas City will react to this loss next week in a huge matchup against the Eagles.