Los Angeles Chargers vs. Denver Broncos 12/31/23 – As we approach the penultimate week of the regular NFL season, the matchup between the Los Angeles Chargers and the Denver Broncos is generating significant interest, especially among enthusiasts looking for football super bowl picks. The Chargers, with a disappointing 5-10 record, face a slightly more fortunate Broncos team standing at 7-8. This Week 17 game promises to be a thrilling encounter at Empower Field at Mile High, a crucial clash for both teams as they look to end their seasons on a high note.
Los Angeles Chargers vs. Denver Broncos 12/31/23
| When: | Sunday, December 31, 2023, at 4:25 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Empower Field at Mile High |
| TV: | CBS |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chargers | +3.5 -115 | o36.5 -110 | +160 |  |
| Broncos | -3.5 -105 | u36.5 -110 | -180 | |
| ||||
no kicker like cameron dicker pic.twitter.com/VaSIxUTh8S
— Los Angeles Chargers (@chargers) December 30, 2023
Easton Stick QB vs. Russell Wilson QB
With Justin Herbert recovering from surgery, Easton Stick will make his fourth start of the year for the Chargers. The second-year quarterback has struggled with accuracy, completing just 66.3% of his passes. However, he has avoided turnovers with just one interception over three starts. Stick’s legs give LA another dimension, although he’ll face a tough Broncos pass rush.
Russell Wilson has failed to meet expectations in his first year with Denver. The veteran QB’s 66.4% completion rate is his lowest mark since 2017, and he hasn’t eclipsed 300 passing yards since Week 5. Playing through injuries has sapped some of Wilson’s trademark escapability and playmaking upside. He should be healthier coming off extended rest before this season finale.
Chargers’ Offensive Dynamics
The Chargers’ offense boasts some notable strengths, particularly within their receiving corps. Keenan Allen stands out with 108 receptions for 1,243 yards and 7 touchdowns; his ability to gain yards after catch and consistently convert first downs make him an invaluable component of their offensive strategy. Running back Austin Ekeler provides the Chargers’ ground game with consistent carries for 571 yards and five touchdowns – essential pieces of their offensive playbook that help balance it out.
Broncos’ Offensive Firepower
Denver’s offense is distinguished by its versatility. Javonte Williams provides an effective ground attack, with 701 rushing yards and two touchdowns under his belt – key components in maintaining Denver’s offensive balance. Courtland Sutton is one of Wilson’s go-to receivers in the passing game, boasting 770 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns from 58 receptions – an indication of his big play capability and significance in Denver’s aerial attack.
NFL Betting Odds: Denver Broncos -240, Over/Under: 39.5
The Broncos are favored with a -240 moneyline and a -5.5 point spread, indicating confidence in their home advantage and overall team strength. The over/under set at 39.5 points suggests expectations of a relatively low-scoring game, in line with both teams’ recent performances.
Trends
Los Angeles Chargers Betting Trends
LA Chargers are 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 10 of LA Chargers’ last 13 games.
LA Chargers are 1-6 SU in their last 7 games.
Chargers are 3-6 ATS in their last 9 games against Denver.
LA Chargers are 6-14 SU in their last 20 games against Denver.
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of LA Chargers’ last 6 games on the road.
Denver Broncos Betting Trends
Denver are 2-4 ATS in their last 6 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Denver’s last 10 games.
Denver are 6-3 SU in their last 9 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Denver’s last 12 games against LA Chargers.
Denver are 4-1 SU in their last 5 games at home.
Denver are 9-1 SU in their last 10 games when playing at home against LA Chargers.
Los Angeles Chargers vs. Denver Broncos Betting Picks
Considering the trends and individual team strengths, the Broncos appear to have the upper hand in this matchup, especially with their effective home game strategy and Wilson’s leadership. However, the Chargers, despite their less impressive record, have the potential to surprise, especially through their passing game.
For bettors looking at top betting sites for value, the Broncos seem a safe bet for a straight win, but the Chargers could cover the spread, given their ability to put up a strong fight. The under on total points might be a sensible bet, reflecting both teams’ recent trends towards lower-scoring games.
Score Prediction: Broncos 21, Chargers 17
