Chargers at Patriots: Preview, prediction, odds and pick

We’re getting ready to see the Los Angeles Chargers and New England Patriots square off at Gillette Stadium. Which club will emerge as the winner on Sunday?

It’s shaping up to be a fascinating weekend in the AFC West. It’s a division that has gotten a lot tighter in recent weeks. Two of its members head cross-country on Sunday. Meanwhile, the first-place Kansas City Chiefs host the second-place Denver Broncos on Monday night.

So while the Oakland Raiders visit Orchard Park on Sunday, the suddenly formidable Los Angeles Chargers invade the home of the defending Super Bowl champions. Like the Bolts, the New England Patriots are riding a three-game winning streak. And like Anthony Lynn’s squad, Bill Belichick’s club has overcome a miserable start.

Meanwhile, any time quarterbacks the caliber of veterans such as Philip Rivers and Tom Brady square off it is safe to say that fireworks can be expected.

Odds

Line: Patriots (-9)

Over/Under: 49

The Patriots have been big favorites at home for the majority of the season. And courtesy of the people at SportsBook Review, this week is no different. Given New England’s injury situation, we wouldn’t be surprised to see this number go down a bit.

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We are not totally convinced the New England Patriots are all the way back. That being said, we aren’t sure what we have seen in the Los Angeles Chargers as of late to indicate that they have completely turned the corner. What we do know is that the defending champs once again have their share of key injuries. And the sense here is that you could see some big performances from not only Rivers but Gordon, Henry and Benjamin as well. Hence the lean towards the road team in a mini-surprise.

Pick: Chargers 26, Patriots 24