Kansas City Chiefs (10-6) vs. Los Angeles Chargers (5-11)
Kansas City Chiefs vs. Los Angeles Chargers January 7, 2024 – As the NFL regular season draws to a close, the Kansas City Chiefs, with a respectable 10-6 record, head to SoFi Stadium to face the struggling Los Angeles Chargers, who stand at 5-11. This Week 18 matchup, slated for Sunday, January 7, 2024, is pivotal for both teams, particularly the Chiefs, who are still in the hunt for a favorable playoff seeding. Fans and bettors alike, keen on daily Super Bowl picks, will be watching closely as these two AFC West rivals clash.
Kansas City Chiefs vs. Los Angeles Chargers January 7, 2024 Game Info
| When: | Sunday, January 7, 2024, at 4:25 PM ET |
| Where: | SoFi Stadium |
| TV: | CBS |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Blaine Gabbert QB vs. Easton Stick QB
Blaine Gabbert of the Kansas City Chiefs has had an uphill struggle this season. While only appearing in one game, Gabbert managed only a 60% completion rate with 31 passing yards, no touchdowns, and two interceptions. While his passer rating of 38.3 does not reflect his full capabilities as an quarterback, it does suggest that they may struggle in passing against Los Angeles Chargers.
Easton Stick has shown more promise as Chargers quarterback during his four-game tenure, boasting a 65.4% completion rate on 127 attempts for 871 passing yards, three touchdowns, and an interception while being sacked 11 times – his passer rating of 89.7 and ability to execute longer plays such as his 79-yard long pass make him more of a dynamic threat against Chiefs defense.
Chiefs’ Ground and Air Attack: Hardman Jr. and Watson’s Crucial Roles
Mecole Hardman Jr. has led an unimpressive rushing attack for the Chiefs so far this season, with just three yards gained on one attempt across five games. For their offensive strategy to be balanced properly, more will need to come from their ground game – something Hardman Jr. may need more opportunities for. Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Justin Watson has been an invaluable contributor in their offense this season, amassing 27 receptions out of 52 targets over 15 games for 460 receiving yards and three touchdowns. His ability to make gains after catch and secure crucial first downs will be especially essential against Los Angeles Chargers defensive tendencies.
Chargers’ Offensive Dynamics: Kelley and Johnston in Focus
Joshua Kelley has been an impressive running back for the Chargers this season. Over 16 games he’s attempted 105 rushing attempts for 404 yards at an average 3.8 average yards per carry average. Kelley’s ability to break off long runs–such as his 49-yard longest rush–along with two touchdowns makes him a reliable ground game option. Quentin Johnston has been one of the Chargers’ bright spots this season. Receiving 36 passes out of 62 targets for 414 receiving yards and two touchdowns, his long reception of 57 yards has proven valuable against Kansas City’s defense.
NFL Betting Odds: Los Angeles Chargers -180, Over/Under: 35
The current betting odds favor the Chargers, despite their less impressive record. The -180 moneyline for the Chargers against the Chiefs’ +160 reflects the potential home-field advantage and the recent performance trends of both teams. The over/under set at 35 points, with equal odds for over and under, suggests a low-scoring affair, aligning with both teams’ recent trends of games going under.
Kansas City Chiefs Betting Trends
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Kansas City’s last 12 games.
Kansas City are 14-6 SU in their last 20 games.
Kansas City are 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games against LA Chargers.
Chiefs are 16-3 SU in their last 19 games against LA Chargers.
Kansas City are 9-2 SU in their last 11 games on the road.
Kansas City are 8-0 SU in their last 8 games when playing on the road against LA Chargers.
Los Angeles Chargers Betting Trends
LA Chargers are 2-6 ATS in their last 8 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 11 of LA Chargers’ last 14 games.
LA Chargers are 1-7 SU in their last 8 games.
Chargers are 1-5 SU in their last 6 games at home.
LA Chargers are 0-8 SU in their last 8 games when playing at home against Kansas City.
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of LA Chargers’ last 9 games against an opponent in the American Football Conference conference.
Kansas City Chiefs vs. Los Angeles Chargers Betting Picks
Given the trends and performances, this game presents a challenging pick. The Chiefs, despite their superior record, have struggled against the Chargers in recent matchups. However, their overall season performance, particularly on the road, gives them a slight edge. The Chargers, despite being the favorites in the odds, have not capitalized on their home-field advantage, as indicated by their recent home game losses.
The better pick here seems to be the Chiefs, especially with the points. Their ability to perform in crucial games, combined with the Chargers’ recent struggles, tips the scale in their favor. For prop bets, considering the trends, betting on the total points to go UNDER might be a wise choice. As always, bettors should consider all factors and check Americas Legal Betting Sites for the latest odds and insights.
Receiving Yards Prop: Chiefs 17, Chargers 14.
