New England Patriots at Los Angeles Chargers Betting Preview
Before taking the kids out trick-or-treating on Sunday, enjoy an afternoon matchup of second-place AFC teams as the New England Patriots (3-4, second in the AFC East) take on the Los Angeles Chargers (4-2, second in the AFC West). The Chargers will host this one at SoFi Stadium, with kickoff set for 4:05 pm ET.
The Patriots are coming off of a blowout 54-13 victory over the New York Jets. In the win, Mac Jones threw for 307 yards and two scores while Damien Harris rushed for 106 yards and another two scores.
For the Chargers, they are trying to bounce back after a 34-6 blowout at the hands of the Baltimore Ravens two weeks ago. In the defeat, Justin Herbert threw for just 195 yards, one touchdown, and an interception. The rushing attack struggled as he was also the leading rusher with just 12 yards.
The Chargers are the favorites in this one playing at home. They are -205 to win while the Patriots’ moneyline sits at +172. The spread features New England +4 (-106), and the over/under for total points is 49.5.
More Odds
Currently, the Patriots have the second-best odds of winning the AFC East at +1000. The Chargers are the favorites to win the AFC West at +100.
In terms of winning the Super Bowl, the Chargers have the better odds at +2100. The Patriots are +7000 to win Super Bowl LVI.
By The Numbers
In their last six games against the Chargers, the Patriots have had a lot of success as they are 6-0 both straight up and against the spread. In Patriots’ road games, the under has hit in five of their last six.
In their last ten games, the Chargers are 8-2, both straight up and against the spread. In their six games this season, they are 4-2 against the spread.
Patriots Look To Rookie QB For Big Road Win
Of all the rookie quarterbacks thus far this season, it is Mac Jones who is having by far the best season. For Bill Belichick and company, they hope that can translate to a road upset over a tough Chargers team.
On the year, Jones has thrown for 1,779 yards, nine touchdowns, and six interceptions. His best receivers to date have been Jakobi Meyers (41 receptions, 390 yards), Kendrick Bourne (22 receptions, 350 yards, two touchdowns), Nelson Agholor (19 receptions, 275 yards, two touchdowns), and tight end Hunter Henry (24 receptions, 264 yards, four touchdowns).
On the ground, Damien Harris has led the way. He has rushed 95 times for 437 yards (4.6 yards per carry) and five touchdowns.
Defensively, the Patriots rank sixth in scoring defense, allowing 20 points per game (14 points on the road).
Chargers Hope To Get Back In Win Column
Heading into their bye week, the Chargers were left with a sour taste in their mouths after getting embarrassed by the Baltimore Ravens on the road. With extra time to prepare, they are hoping to get back on track as they welcome the Patriots to town.
Under center for the Chargers is quarterback Justin Herbert. This season, he has thrown for 1,771 yards, 14 touchdowns, and just four interceptions. He has also rushed for 72 yards and another score.
On the ground, Austin Ekeler has been the leading rusher as he has 356 yards and four touchdowns on 73 carries. He has also helped in the passing game with 242 yards receiving and another three touchdowns.
The leading receivers for Los Angeles have been Mike Williams (33 receptions, 498 yards, six touchdowns) and Kennan Allen (39 receptions, 419 yards, one touchdown).
Defensively, the Chargers rank 22nd in scoring defense as they are allowing opponents an average of 25 points per game.
Taking New England And The Points
While the Patriots have four losses this season, three of those losses are by a combined nine points. They lost to the Cowboys by six (in overtime), the Buccaneers by two, and the Dolphins by one.
Needless to say, even with a rookie quarterback, Bill Belichick continues to have his team competitive in every game they play in.
While they may not pick up the victory against Los Angeles, expect this one to remain close throughout. For that reason, take New England and the four points.
