Los Angeles Chargers at Denver Broncos Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 10/13/2024 4:05 PM EST

We have your Los Angeles Chargers at Denver Broncos prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Los Angeles Chargers hit the road to face the Denver Broncos.

Los Angeles Chargers at Denver Broncos Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: Los Angeles Chargers -155 (DraftKings) / Denver Broncos +135 (ESPN BET)
Best Spread Odds: 3.0 - Los Angeles Chargers -105 (ESPN BET) / Denver Broncos -115 (ESPN BET)
Best Total Odds: 35.5 - Under -110 (BetMGM) / Over -110 (BetMGM)

Game Info

Date: 10/13/2024
Time: 4:05 PM EST
Location: Empower Field at Mile High (Denver, CO)
TV: CBS

Historic Head-to-Head Stats and Analysis

Over the past three seasons, the Denver Broncos and the Los Angeles Chargers have faced off four times, with the Broncos emerging victorious in three of those encounters. The Chargers managed to secure a single win. In these matchups, the home team has generally had the upper hand, winning three out of the four games. The Broncos have also been more successful against the spread, covering in three games compared to the Chargers' one. In terms of scoring, the games have predominantly leaned towards the under, with three of the four games finishing below the projected total, while only one game went over.

The most recent game between these two teams took place on December 31, 2023, where the Denver Broncos defeated the Los Angeles Chargers 16-9. The Broncos, playing at home, were favored with a closing spread of -3.5 and successfully covered it. The game was characterized by strong defensive performances, as both teams struggled to find the end zone, resulting in a total score of 25, which was well under the closing over-under of 39.5. The Broncos' victory was largely attributed to their efficient third-down conversions, completing 7 of 17 attempts, compared to the Chargers' 2 of 11. Denver's offense managed 313 total yards, slightly edging out the Chargers' 301 yards, and the Broncos maintained a better time of possession, holding the ball for over 33 minutes.

In the other three games, the Broncos continued to demonstrate their dominance. On December 10, 2023, they defeated the Chargers 24-7, covering the spread as the visiting team. The game on January 8, 2023, saw the Broncos win 31-28 at home, although the Chargers covered the spread as underdogs. The earliest matchup in this period, on October 17, 2022, was the only game the Chargers won, defeating the Broncos 19-16 in overtime at home, but the Broncos covered the spread as the visiting underdogs. Across these games, the Broncos have consistently outperformed the Chargers in key areas such as rushing yards and third-down efficiency, contributing to their favorable record in this matchup.

Los Angeles Chargers at Denver Broncos Preview

The Los Angeles Chargers and Denver Broncos are set to clash in a pivotal AFC West showdown at Empower Field at Mile High. Both teams enter the matchup with contrasting narratives, as the Broncos have found their stride with a three-game winning streak, while the Chargers are looking to rebound after a bye week that followed two consecutive losses. Denver's resurgence has been fueled by the emergence of rookie quarterback Bo Nix, who delivered a standout performance against the Raiders, throwing for 206 yards and two touchdowns. Nix's ability to manage the game without turnovers has been crucial, especially given the Broncos' injury woes on the offensive line, highlighted by the recent high-ankle sprain to right tackle Alex Palczewski.

Defensively, the Broncos have been formidable, ranking second in total yards allowed per game and third in both passing yards and points allowed. Their pass rush, led by Jonathan Cooper, has been relentless, amassing 16 sacks through five games. This defensive prowess will be tested against a Chargers offense that has shown flashes of brilliance but has been inconsistent. Quarterback Justin Herbert, nursing a sprained ankle, will need to navigate a Broncos defense that has excelled in pressuring opposing quarterbacks.

The Chargers, on the other hand, are banking on their own defensive strengths to counter Denver's attack. Despite missing key players like Joey Bosa, their pass rush remains a significant threat, and they will look to exploit Denver's weakened offensive line. The Chargers' defense has been a bright spot, even in their losses, and they will aim to disrupt Nix's rhythm and force him into mistakes.

Historically, the Broncos have had the upper hand in this rivalry, winning three of the last four meetings. However, the Chargers are determined to reverse this trend and capitalize on their bye week to regroup and strategize. With both teams eyeing a crucial divisional win, this matchup promises to be a hard-fought battle, with the Broncos' recent form and home advantage potentially giving them the edge.

Los Angeles Chargers at Denver Broncos Pick: Los Angeles Chargers Against the Spread

The Los Angeles Chargers are poised to cover the spread against the Denver Broncos in their upcoming matchup. Despite the Broncos' recent three-game winning streak, the Chargers have several factors working in their favor. Firstly, the Chargers are coming off a bye week, which has allowed them to rest and recover from injuries, particularly to key players like Justin Herbert and Joey Bosa. Herbert, although dealing with a sprained ankle, has been practicing with a brace and is expected to lead the Chargers' offense with his usual precision. The extra week of preparation should also help the Chargers' coaching staff devise a game plan to exploit the Broncos' vulnerabilities.

Moreover, the Broncos are dealing with significant issues on their offensive line, notably the injury to right tackle Alex Palczewski, which leaves them with a third-string option at that position. This is a critical weakness that the Chargers' formidable pass rush, even without Bosa, can exploit. The Chargers' defense has been a bright spot, consistently applying pressure on opposing quarterbacks, and they will look to disrupt rookie Bo Nix, who, despite his recent success, is still adjusting to the NFL's pace and complexity.

Historically, the Broncos have had the upper hand in this rivalry, but the Chargers' determination to reverse this trend, coupled with their defensive strengths, positions them well to cover the spread. The Broncos' recent victories have been hard-fought, and their offense, while effective, has not faced a defense as capable as the Chargers' in recent weeks. With the Chargers' ability to capitalize on Denver's offensive line issues and their own offensive potential, they are well-equipped to not only challenge but potentially outpace the Broncos, making them a strong pick against the spread.

Los Angeles Chargers at Denver Broncos Top Player Prop Picks

Bo Nix Over 1.5 Passing Touchdowns +150 (DraftKings)

Bo Nix has shown significant improvement in his recent performances, particularly in the Broncos' victory over the Raiders where he threw for 206 yards and two touchdowns. His ability to manage the game without turnovers has been a key factor in Denver's three-game winning streak. Despite the Chargers' formidable pass rush, Nix's growing confidence and the Broncos' offensive momentum suggest he can surpass the 1.5 passing touchdowns mark. The Chargers' defense, while strong, has shown vulnerabilities, and Nix's connection with his receivers, especially in the red zone, could lead to multiple scoring opportunities.

Justin Herbert Over 250.5 Passing Yards -110 (BetMGM)

Justin Herbert, despite nursing a sprained ankle, remains a pivotal figure in the Chargers' offensive strategy. With an extra week of rest and preparation during the bye, Herbert is poised to exploit the Broncos' secondary. Historically, Herbert has been known for his ability to rack up passing yards, and with the Broncos' defense focusing on pressuring him, quick passes and strategic play-calling could see him exceed the 250.5 passing yards mark. The Chargers' need to rebound from their recent losses will likely see Herbert take on a more aggressive passing approach, making this prop a strong consideration.

Javonte Williams Over 75.5 Total Yards -120 (FanDuel)

Javonte Williams has been a consistent performer for the Broncos, contributing both in the rushing and passing game. In the recent matchup against the Raiders, Williams showcased his dual-threat capability with 61 rushing yards and 50 receiving yards. Given the Broncos' offensive line issues, Williams' versatility will be crucial in providing Nix with a reliable outlet. The Chargers' defense, while strong, has shown susceptibility to versatile backs, and Williams' ability to gain yards in multiple facets of the game makes the over on 75.5 total yards an appealing proposition.