Los Angeles Chargers (5-10) vs. Denver Broncos (7-8)
Los Angeles Chargers vs. Denver Broncos December 31, 2023 – Los Angeles Chargers take on Denver Broncos in Week 17 matchup that is of critical importance to both teams. Set for Sunday at Empower Field at Mile High, this Week 17 contest pits 5-10 Chargers against 7-8 Broncos with fans and analysts making free football predictions that this game promises to be an intense battle of pride and standings positioning.
Los Angeles Chargers vs. Denver Broncos December 31, 2023 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
With Justin Herbert out for this game cause of injury, Easton Stick will be under center for the Chargers. In three games this year, Stick has posted modest numbers: 66.3% completions, 7.3 yards per attempt, 3 TDs, 1 INT, and a 94.4 passer rating. While he has talent around him, facing Denver’s 10th-ranked pass defense on the road could lead to struggles.
Russell Wilson has failed to live up to expectations in his first year with Denver. His 98.0 passer rating is the second-worst of his career, and he has struggled with turnovers. However, Wilson has the higher ceiling of these two quarterbacks and could take advantage of a poor Chargers’ pass defense that allows the fifth-most yards per game
Chargers’ Offensive Dynamics: The Dual Threat of Austin Ekeler and Keenan Allen
Austin Ekeler leads the Chargers’ running game with 571 rushing yards and five touchdowns over 12 games, showing his versatility while finding gaps in defenses. Keenan Allen has been outstanding as well, amassing 1243 receiving yards with seven touchdowns over 13 games; his contribution in outwitting the Broncos defense cannot be understated.
Broncos’ Offensive Strategy: The Impact of Javonte Williams and Courtland Sutton
Javonte Williams is the Broncos’ primary running back and has amassed 701 yards over 14 games for Denver. His consistent performance will be critical in setting the ground game against the Chargers. Courtland Sutton has been an essential player on Denver’s receiving corps with his 770 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns across 15 games; his ability to make big plays could prove decisive come game day.
NFL Betting Odds: Denver Broncos -240, Over/Under: 39.5
The betting odds favor the Broncos, reflecting their stronger season record and home-field advantage. The over/under is set at a conservative 39.5 points, suggesting a game dominated by defense rather than high-scoring offenses.
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
Analyzing the trends and player statistics, the Broncos seem to have the upper hand, especially with their home advantage and more consistent season performance. The Chargers will need to leverage their offensive weapons effectively to stand a chance.
In terms of betting, while the Broncos appear to be the safer pick, the Chargers could offer value, especially with the spread. Considering the defensive strengths of both teams, the under on the total points seems like a prudent bet.
For bettors seeking guidance, top legal betting websites will offer a range of options to capitalize on this intriguing matchup. The Broncos’ solid home record and overall performance this season make them the favorites in this NFL Week 17 clash.
Receiving Yards Prop: Broncos 22, Chargers 15.
