Denver Broncos (6-6) vs. Los Angeles Chargers (5-7)
Denver Broncos vs. Los Angeles Chargers 12/10/23 – The 6-6 Denver Broncos take on the 5-7 Los Angeles Chargers this Sunday, December 10th at SoFi Stadium. This AFC West rivalry game has major implications for both team’s playoff hopes. With the season winding down, this could be an elimination game for the loser. Grab all the need-to-know details and no-cost NFL selections for this contest with our complete preview and analysis.
The Broncos enter this game winners of 5 of their last 6 after a slow start to the year. The spark has been veteran QB Russell Wilson finally settling in after an early shoulder injury affected his play. Over the past month, Wilson has shown flashes of his old elite form. His rapport with top WR Courtland Sutton has also grown, as the duo has connected for 4 TDs during the Broncos’ hot streak. Establishing the run game remains key, as RB Javonte Williams is averaging 53 rushing yards per contest.
Getting top rusher Austin Ekeler back healthy has the Chargers offense back in rhythm. Ekeler is averaging 99 total yards per game and has scored 4 times in the 3 weeks since his return. Having that safety valve out of the backfield has also helped young franchise QB Justin Herbert, who has posted a 109.5 rating in that span. Herbert’s favorite target Keenan Allen has been nearly unstoppable, already eclipsing 1,100 receiving yards on the season.
Denver Broncos vs. Los Angeles Chargers 12/10/23 Game Info
| When: | Sunday, December 10, 2023 at 4:25 PM ET |
| Where: | SoFi Stadium |
| TV: | CBS |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Russell Wilson QB vs. Justin Herbert QB
Russell Wilson will look to carry over his recent strong play after throwing for 7 TDs and 0 interceptions during Denver’s 5 wins in their past 6 games. Wilson’s ability to create plays outside the pocket and willingness to take shots downfield meshes perfectly with the Broncos’ offensive talent. If he can avoid the pass rush against a fierce Chargers front line, Wilson should be able to exploit a Los Angeles secondary that has struggled recently.
Justin Herbert‘s combination of size, athleticism, and arm strength has him looking like a future MVP candidate. He has top-flight weapons in Ekeler and Allen while developing a rapport with young WR Josh Palmer. Herbert has tossed multiple TD passes in 3 straight contests coming into this matchup. With the Broncos missing top cornerbacks, expect offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi to let Herbert attack all areas of the field with deep shots off play-action.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Los Angeles Chargers -150, Total Odds: 45.5
The Chargers are slightly favored with a -3.5 point spread and a -150 moneyline, reflecting their stronger standing and home-field advantage. The total set at 45.5 points, with the under at -111, suggests expectations of a balanced scoring game.
Denver Broncos Betting Trends
The Broncos are 4-2 against the spread over their last 6 games. Going back further, Denver has covered in 7 of their previous 10 contests. This indicates that the betting market continues to undervalue this squad. Broncos games have also gone under in 6 of their last 7 outings. This reflects their recipe for success by controlling possession and not relying solely on the pass.
Los Angeles Chargers Betting Trends
The most eye-popping trend in this contest is the under cashing in 11 of the Chargers’ previous 13 home games against Denver. With Brandon Staley’s defense returning key contributors like Joey Bosa, expect another staunch effort to contain Wilson and the Broncos offense. Los Angeles has also gone under in 4 of their last 5 contests at SoFi Stadium. Combined with Wilson’s struggles on the road this year (3-14 SU in his last 17), scoring could be tough to come by on Sunday.
Denver Broncos vs. Los Angeles Chargers 12/10/23 Betting Picks
Given the trends and both teams’ recent performances, the Chargers appear to have a slight edge, especially playing at home. However, the Broncos’ potential to cover the spread should not be overlooked. For those consulting a multi-handicapper website, this game presents a challenging but interesting betting scenario.
In terms of picks, the Chargers might be the safer bet for the win, but the Broncos could be a value pick against the spread. The total is a close call, but given both teams’ tendencies, the under might offer slight value. Prop bets focusing on key quarterbacks and receivers could offer additional intrigue.
Free Pick and Prediction: Los Angeles Chargers 24, Denver Broncos 21