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Expert prediction

LA Chargers vs. Las Vegas Raiders NFL Week 18 Preview, Odds, Prediction (Jan 5)

  • Nikola Velickovic
  • Dec 31, 2024 at 9:18 AM EST

Pick rationale

Analysis & key factors

  • Chargers vs. Raiders game has a huge implication on the AFC playoff picture.
  • If the Chargers win, they might even reach the No.5 seed in the AFC.
  • LA Chargers defense has allowed the fewest points in the NFL – 281

The fact that the Chargers have a chance to attack the fifth seed in the AFC transforms this game into a very important one for the team from LA. That would allow them to face the Houston Texans in the Wild Card round, which is a much better scenario than to meet the Baltimore Ravens.

How To Watch

  • When: Sunday, January 5, 4:25 pm ET
  • Where: Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas, Nevada
  • How To Watch: CBS

NBA Regular Season Odds

TeamOddsSpreadTotals
LA Chargers-250-641.5
Las Vegas Raiders+210+641.5

Game Preview

The Chargers’ TE Hayden Hurst and RB Gus Edwards are questionable, but we believe they will play in this important game. LAC won the last two events against the Broncos and the Patriots on the road, boosting the morale ahead of this one.

Justin Herbert has 21 touchdown passes this year and only three picks, though he didn’t play all the games. The former Baltimore Ravens RB JK Dobbins ran for nine scores and 842 yards and is a key to the Chargers’ success.

Las Vegas Raiders had another frustrating and disappointing season. This franchise can’t seem to get things going and is always ravaged by injuries or some off-field events that have a long-term effect.

The only positive thing that came out of this season is the appearance of the 22-year-old TE Brock Bowers, who has 1,144 receiving yards this year and 108 receptions. He is in the top ten in both categories.

Chargers vs. Raiders Head to Head

The Chargers won the opening meeting this season, 22-10.

Chargers vs. Raiders Prediction

The Raiders looked stable against the Saints in the last round. However, honestly, we don’t believe they have the power to stop the Chargers, who have risen over the past two weekends. That’s why we bet on the Chargers to win this one.

  • Free NFL Pick: Chargers win

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