Los Angeles Chargers vs. Arizona Cardinals Prediction – NFL Week 7

The Los Angeles Chargers and Arizona Cardinals are set to face off in a Monday night showdown at State Farm Stadium. Both teams are seeking consistency, with the Chargers (3-2) looking to jumpstart their offense under head coach Jim Harbaugh and the Cardinals (2-4) hoping to bounce back from consecutive losses.
With the Chargers struggling offensively and the Cardinals dealing with a porous defense, this matchup provides a chance for both teams to reverse their early-season woes.
Chargers’ Offensive Struggles and Herbert’s Progress
Despite holding a winning record, the Chargers have been underwhelming offensively, ranking 26th in scoring at 18.2 points per game and 28th in total offense with 281 yards per game. Quarterback Justin Herbert has had a slow start to the season, averaging just 163 passing yards per game. However, Herbert showed signs of improvement in the Chargers’ 23-16 win over the Denver Broncos last week, throwing for 237 yards, his highest total of the season.
Injuries are also impacting the Chargers’ depth, with star pass rusher Joey Bosa (hip) and cornerbacks Kristian Fulton and Deane Leonard missing recent practices. Tight end Hayden Hurst (groin) and wide receiver Quentin Johnston (ankle) were also sidelined, leaving Los Angeles shorthanded in key positions.
Head coach Jim Harbaugh will continue to wear a heart monitor during the game after experiencing an arrhythmia last week. Harbaugh has received medical clearance to coach and expressed optimism about his health.
Cardinals Search for Stability and Offensive Spark
The Cardinals have struggled defensively, allowing 27.2 points per game, ranking 27th in the NFL. Their recent 34-13 loss to the Green Bay Packers exposed weaknesses, including turnovers and penalties that disrupted any chance of a comeback. Arizona committed 13 penalties for 100 yards and lost three fumbles in the second half alone.
Quarterback Kyler Murray remains optimistic, emphasizing the importance of staying focused despite the team’s rough start. Rookie wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. is also making progress in concussion protocol after leaving last week’s game. Harrison has 279 receiving yards and four touchdowns this season, making him a vital piece of the Cardinals’ offense.
Arizona’s running game is dealing with injuries, including offensive lineman Kelvin Beachum (hamstring). Defensive tackle Bilal Nichols, who suffered two neck stingers in recent games, has been ruled out for the season.
Prediction: Chargers Get the Win in a Close Matchup
Both teams are dealing with injuries and inconsistency, but the Chargers’ improving offense and defensive potential could give them the edge. Arizona’s defensive struggles have been costly, and limiting turnovers will be crucial to staying competitive. Look for Herbert to build on his recent success, leading the Chargers to a narrow 24-20 victory.
The Chargers cover the -1 spread, and with both offenses showing signs of life, the game could hit the over on the 44-point total.