Chargers vs Raiders Odds - Raiders defense to be embarrassed by Chargers
The Chargers vs Raiders odds pits two teams who are at complete opposite ends of the spectrum. The Chargers are a Super Bowl favorite and the best team in the AFC West, while the Raiders are in complete disarray and are among the worst franchises in the NFL. Online betting cappers can expect that to be on display on Monday Night Football.
Chargers vs Raiders odds: Chargers -9
- WHAT: NFL betting
- WHEN: Monday, September 14th – 9:15 PM ET
- WHERE: McAfee Stadium – Alameda, CA
- PICK: Chargers -9
than a tune-up. They know what they’ve got on their roster, and outside of the fact that this is a heated rivalry, there aren’t any extras on the line for them. For the Raiders, this is the first official game of the Tom Cable era, if that means anything. There’s already dissention in the locker room as Cable knocked out one of his assistants. Yes, the Raiders look to be in fine form for Week 1 - and by fine form, we mean in complete disarray.
Chargers vs Raiders odds maker breakdown: Offense
NFL betting fans know that the Chargers have the better offense in this matchup, and they should also note that they’re now healthy. LaDainian Tomlinson has recommitted himself, while Philip Rivers and Antonio Gates are dealing with nagging injuries as they were heading into the season last year. The Raiders’ run defense has been shredded so far in the preseason, so look for Tomlinson and Darren Sproles to run wild in Week 1. The Raiders offense hasn’t lit the world on fire in the preseason but it has been slightly improved. Quarterback JaMarcus Russell is moving into the ‘respectable starter’ range and the running game will feature a number of capable backs. The Raiders will have to get their passing game going since that’s the weakest element of the Chargers defense. They won’t win this contest if they are solely relying on the run. Betting Edge: Chargers
Chargers vs Raiders odds maker breakdown: Defense
The Chargers defense is predicated on rushing the passer, and failed miserably last year when Pro Bowl linebacker Shawne Merriman was lost to a season-ending injury. The Chargers had only 28 sacks last year, but through their first three preseason games, they’ve already notched 10. That’s a good indication that this defense is going to bounce back. If the pressure is there, the secondary will make plays and they will be an arduous unit to face. Meanwhile, the Raiders defense couldn’t be more pitiful. Through three preseason games, the Raiders ranked dead last in the NFL, giving up 399 yards per game. Throw in the fact that the defense’s best player, cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha, is hampered by a broken wrist and this opening contest could get ugly for the Raiders. Betting Edge: Chargers
Chargers vs Raiders odds maker breakdown: Special Teams
The special teams battle is fairly even in this contest as both teams have two of the best units in the NFL. The Raiders have a stellar return man in Johnnie Lee Higgins and two excellent kickers in Shane Lechler and Sebastian Janikowski. Meanwhile, the Chargers have an electric returner of their own, Darren Sproles, and Nate Kaeding and Mike Scifres to handing kicking. Betting Edge: Even
Chargers vs Raiders odds maker breakdown: Notable Injuries
As mentioned, the Raiders top cornerback Asomugha is questionable for the contest with a wrist injury. It’s likely that he’ll play, but he’ll be hampered by it, especially in bump and run coverage. Also, starting linebacker Kirk Morrison dislocated his elbow earlier in the preseason, although he might be healed enough to play. Betting Edge: Chargers
Chargers vs Raiders betting breakdown: Outlook and Pick
The Chargers are a huge road favorite in the sportsbook and this line should continue to climb. The Raiders are a team in disarray right now with a mix of personnel problems, coaching troubles and injuries. Stay away from them at this point. STAN’S PICK: Chargers -9
Get your fill of sports betting analysis in the BetOnline.com Betting Edge every day and for more on the Chargers vs Raiders matchup, check out our stats center. Stan Simmons first tasted football through the college game, but his football handicapping has strictly focused on the professional sport. Not many people devote as much time to the NFL as Simmons. For six days a week he works, labors and handicaps the sport, and on the seventh he rests as the games play out. Thoughts or questions? Email Comments@BetOnline.com.
