Bengals-Chargers preview: Joe Burrow's last regular-season game with no Ja'Marr Chase

Los Angeles Chargers at Cincinnati Bengals

Sunday, Jan. 8, 1 p.m. ET

Paycor Stadium, Cincinnati

Los Angeles Chargers: 10-6

Cincinnati Bengals: 11-4

Line: Bengals -1

Over/Under: 49.5

The Cincinnati Bengals and Los Angeles Chargers will face off in a Week 18 AFC matchup with playoff implications for both teams.

The Bengals (11-4) have already clinched a playoff berth, but they can still earn a first-round bye with a win and a loss by the Buffalo Bills.

The Chargers (10-6) need a win to clinch a playoff berth. They can also get in with a tie and a loss by the New York Jets.

The Bengals will be without star wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase, who is out with a hip injury.

Chargers pass offense vs. Bengals pass defense

The Chargers have one of the most explosive passing attacks in the NFL, led by quarterback Justin Herbert.

The Bengals have a solid pass defense, but they have been vulnerable to big plays this season.

Bengals run offense vs. Chargers run defense

The Bengals have a strong running game, led by running back Joe Mixon.

The Chargers have a good run defense, but they have struggled to stop the run at times this season.

Chargers pass rush vs. Bengals offensive line

The Chargers have a good pass rush, led by Joey Bosa.

The Bengals have a solid offensive line, but they have struggled to protect quarterback Joe Burrow at times this season.

The Bengals are a slight favorite in this game, but the Chargers are a dangerous team.

With Chase out, the Bengals will need to rely more on their running game and defense.

The Chargers will need to take advantage of the Bengals' secondary and get pressure on Burrow.

This is a tough game to predict, but I think the Bengals will win a close one.

Bengals 27, Chargers 24