Las Vegas Raiders (0-2 Preseason) vs. Los Angeles Chargers (1-2 Preseason)
The NFL games open with an interesting game in the AFC West where the Las Vegas Raiders, winless in the preseason, hope to change that against the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium. Sunday’s NFL action operates under the premise that there shall be hope for the underdogs or some hope that is still in the underdogs, live coverage on CBS at 4:05 PM ET. For those out there looking to obtain some free football picks, this game offers many fascinating stories and numbers.
The focus of the offense for the Raiders is distributed on the arm of quarterback Carter Bradley and the legs of running back Sincere McCormick. On the other hand, McCormick managed to record 60 rushing yards in 17 attempts during the preseason. The Raiders rush game has not shown such big plays yet. However, McCormick has a steady yardage gain of 3.5 yards per carry, which may then be leveraged to penetrate the defense of the Chargers. On the other end, Tre Tucker creates a big problem for the opponent’s defense as he gets 139 yards in two games and catches the eye of Bradley as the best receiver, who averages 27.8 yards per catch.
In contrast, the Chargers work with the combination of quarterback Easton Stick and running back Jaret Patterson. Patterson, who has gained slightly more rushing yards than his Raiders counterpart, has gained 75 yards over the preseason. This Is why, given that he averages 4.4 yards per carry, he may also be crucial in breaking through the Raiders’ front. Strikingly, Simi Fehoko is the player to watch for the Chargers within the air, as he has managed to gather 170 receiving yards from 7 catches. His statistics include a large reception of 78 yards, which exemplifies the big play ability that the Raiders will have to find ways to contain.
Las Vegas Raiders vs. Los Angeles Chargers Game Info
| When: | Sunday, September 8, 2024, at 4:05 PM ET |
| Where: | SoFi Stadium |
| TV: | CBS |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Carter Bradley QB vs. Easton Stick QB
Carter Bradley, who has only played two games and one whooping malfunction as a passer, has seen his resume with only a 50% completion rate and a reinforcement touchdown stacked against him, one interception. Although he has completed some of the objectives set for him during the preseason, he still has a lot to improve on preventing being sacked and the passer rating of 68.9. An advantage in breaking the Chargers’ defense could be using passes thrown deep to Tucker by Bradley.
Easton Stick‘s preseason does not paint a bright picture either, with a much lower completion rate (45.5%) and, worse, a 1-3 touchdown to interception ratio. It is clear why Stick has a passer rating of only 46.3. He has to work on his protection and decision-making. Eastern Stick will be looking up to the game against the rounds for an opportunity to restore his confidence and rhythm.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Los Angeles Chargers -155, Total Odds: 42.5
The betting odds favor the Chargers with a -2.5 point spread and a -155 moneyline, reflecting slight confidence in their ability to cover the spread at home. The total set at 42.5 points suggests a moderately scoring game, likely influenced by both teams’ recent underwhelming offensive outputs and strong defensive plays during the preseason.
Las Vegas Raiders Betting Trends
The Raiders show a strong trend against the spread (ATS), going 4-0-1 in their last five games, indicating resilience and capability to cover. Moreover, their games historically trend under the total points, especially in matchups against the Chargers on the road. These trends might influence bets towards the Raiders covering the spread or the total going under once again.
Los Angeles Chargers Betting Trends
Conversely, the Chargers have struggled both outright and ATS, going 1-4 in their recent games and winless in their last five at home. These trends present concerns about their ability to cover as favorites and may influence bettors to lean towards the Raiders or the under on total points.
Las Vegas Raiders vs. Los Angeles Chargers 9/8/24 Betting Picks
Given the statistical insights and historical performance, this game leans towards a tightly contested battle with potential underdog surprises. The Raiders, despite their winless preseason, have shown grit ATS and could very well cover against a struggling Chargers squad.
When considering betting strategies, the best bookie software would suggest value in backing the Raiders to cover +2.5 and possibly sprinkle on the moneyline. The under on total points also appears promising, given both teams’ recent trends and preseason scoring performances.
