See what our writers’ predict for this week’s game against the Raiders.
It’s week one, baby. It’s also that time again for our weekly picks from our guys.
As of Friday, the Chargers are 3.5-point favorites over the Raiders according to DraftKings Sportsbook. Does that breed enough confidence in all of us to make it a clean sweep for the Chargers over Las Vegas?
Let’s go ahead and take a look.
Michael Peterson: The Chargers may be forced to face Davante Adams without the aid of J.C. Jackson. If that’s the case, I think this game will be a bit closer than fans would like. However, the Chargers have the edge against both Las Vegas’ offensive line and secondary. I like their odds when those battles are in their favor.
I think this is a big game for Justin Herbert who will continue his spectacular play against the Raiders from their last game. I predict him to throw for over 300 yards and three touchdowns with one interception. It’s a division game, after all. These normally don’t come and go without any drama.
Final Score: Chargers 27-20
Matthew Stanley: I think the Chargers are able to win this game. The Raiders are dealing with a new coaching staff and a very suspect offensive line. The Chargers meanwhile have the same staff and scheme while adding a a bunch of weapons on defense and evolving the offense to a new level.
The Raiders won’t be a pushover though, especially if JC Jackson is unable to go on Sunday. Their offense outside of the offensive line does have a lot of weapons and they have a very formidable pass rushing duo of their own in Chandler Jones and Maxx Crosby.
Ultimately though, I feel like the Chargers get their revenge for week 18 last season and come away with the win.
Final Score: Chargers 31 – 24
Garrett Sisti: I think Davante Adams is going to go off. Reuniting with Carr, I think Josh McDaniels is really going to showcase Adams in this offense. Austin Ekeler gets a TD on the ground, Mike Williams gets a deep TD and Gerald Everett gets a red zone touchdown. The Chargers are going to get up early, the Raiders will mount a comeback, but ultimately the Chargers will pull this one off.
Final Score: Chargers 27-24
Odds/lines subject to change. T&Cs apply. See draftkings.com/sportsbook for details.