Los Angeles Chargers (5-10) vs. Denver Broncos (7-8)
Los Angeles Chargers vs. Denver Broncos 12/31/23 – Los Angeles Chargers and Denver Broncos meet in a key NFL Week 17 matchup, as both teams look to end their seasons on an upbeat note. Even with their disappointing record, Los Angeles hope to steal away victory from Denver by upstaging them at home; fans and bettors alike look forward to this matchup for insightful NFL predictions as both have experienced ups and downs during this year.
The Chargers have shown flashes of brilliance on offense this season, particularly in their passing game. Easton Stick has amassed 3134 yards and 20 touchdowns through 3134 pass attempts; Keenan Allen has been his main target, amassing 1243 receiving yards and 7 touchdowns as his primary receiver. Unfortunately, the running game led by Austin Ekeler has not been as productive; Ekeler racked up 571 yards on 571 attempts with an average yard per attempt showing some struggle within their ground game.
On the other hand, Denver Broncos have had a relatively balanced offensive attack. Quarterback Russell Wilson has passed for 3070 yards and 26 touchdowns while Javonte Williams led their rushing efforts with 701 rushing yards and two touchdowns for an efficient but not spectacular ground game. Courtland Sutton proved himself invaluable as an outlet for Wilson with 770 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns in 2017.
Los Angeles Chargers vs. Denver Broncos 12/31/23 Game Info
| When: | Sunday, December 31, 2023 at 4:25 PM ET |
| Where: | Empower Field at Mile High |
| TV: | CBS |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Easton Stick QB vs. Russell Wilson QB
Easton Stick possesses all the physical tools to be an elite quarterback – the height, arm strength, accuracy, and athleticism that scouts covet. However, he has been plagued by inconsistencies and a tendency to commit pivotal turnovers behind a woeful offensive line. Stick showcases pinpoint ball placement one series, then makes a momentum-shifting interception the next. He has the ability to excel both from inside and outside of the pocket but has yet to develop the situational awareness and maturity to limit mistakes.
Russell Wilson overcame early season struggles in a new offense to flash the efficiency and playmaking that defined his decade. Wilson utilizes his mobility and improvisational skills to extend plays and has showcased impressive touch on deep balls. His 26 touchdowns against just 8 interceptions display poise and mastery executing in the red zone. Wilson has also limited sacks by getting the ball out quickly from clean pockets. The recent uptick in production mirrors his prior Pro Bowl form. With the game on the line, Denver has the clear edge under center with Wilson’s veteran moxie compared to Stick’s youthful inconsistency.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Denver Broncos -240, Total Odds: 39.5
The betting odds favor the Denver Broncos, with a spread of -5.5 and a moneyline of -240. The total set at 39.5 points reflects expectations of a relatively low-scoring game, considering both teams’ offensive and defensive trends.
Los Angeles Chargers Betting Trends
The Chargers are 2-5 against the spread (ATS) in their last 7 games. The total has gone UNDER 10 of their last 13 games. Los Angeles is 1-6 straight up in its last 7 games. The Chargers are also just 3-6 ATS in their last 9 meetings with Denver. When playing on the road, the under has hit in 5 of LA’s last 6 games.
Denver Broncos Betting Trends
Denver is just 2-4 ATS in its last 6 contests. However, the total has gone UNDER in 7 of the Broncos’ last 10 outings. Denver is a profitable 6-3 straight up in its last 9 games overall. The under has hit in 8 of the Broncos’ last 12 home matchups with the Chargers. Denver is also 4-1 straight up in its last 5 games at Empower Field.
Los Angeles Chargers vs. Denver Broncos 12/31/23 Betting Picks
Considering the trends and performances of both teams, this game could be closer than the odds suggest. The Broncos, with their home-field advantage, might have the upper hand. However, the Chargers have the potential to cover the spread, especially with Stick’s passing ability.
For Handicapper’s best picks, the Chargers covering the spread seems like a valuable bet, given their potential to keep the game competitive. Prop bets on individual performances, particularly for key receivers, could be interesting, given the strengths of both teams’ passing games. The over/under is set aptly, but considering both teams’ defensive strengths, the under might be a safer bet.
Free Pick and Prediction: Denver Broncos 20, Los Angeles Chargers 17