The Los Angeles Chargers will face off against the New England Patriots on Saturday, Dec. 28 at Gillette Stadium, with the kickoff set for 1 p.m. ET/10 a.m. PT and the game broadcast on NFL Network. The Chargers enter the game as a 4-point favorite over the Patriots.
The moneyline stands at -200 for Los Angeles and +165 for New England. The over/under for the game is set at 42.5 points. Jeremy Cluff predicts: “The Chargers have the NFL’s best scoring defense, while the Patriots have one of the worst scoring offenses.
This spells trouble for New England.” His prediction is Chargers 24, Patriots 13. Matt Johnson says: “Despite recent struggles, the Chargers’ defense is still formidable. The Patriots’ offensive line isn’t strong enough to handle Los Angeles’ defense.
Expect the Chargers to win and secure a playoff spot.” His prediction is Chargers 27, Patriots 17. Nick Hennion believes: “The Chargers excel at establishing early leads, with a strong ATS record in the first half this year. A comeback from New England is unlikely.
Expect Herbert and the Chargers to cover the spread as road favorites.”
The site’s predictive formula gives the Chargers a 60.4% chance to win, compared to the Patriots’ 39.3%, leaving a small percentage for a potential tie. This matchup will be crucial in shaping the playoff picture heading into the final week of the regular season. With both teams fighting for postseason aspirations, the game promises to be a tense and competitive affair.
The New England Patriots host the Los Angeles Chargers at Gillette Stadium on Sunday, December 28 at 1:00 PM. This game marks the second consecutive year that the Chargers will visit New England. Last season, the Chargers secured a 6-0 victory on December 3, 2023.
Following this game, the Patriots will play their final match of the season against the Buffalo Bills, though the date and time for that game have yet to be announced. The Patriots’ ground game has been gaining momentum. The Chargers’ defense has struggled to contain the run this season, ranking 19th in the league and allowing 124.1 yards per game on the ground.
The Chargers fare worse in yards per carry, ranking 27th and allowing 4.7 yards per carry.
Chargers’ defense vs. Patriots’ offense
Rhamondre Stevenson and Antonio Gibson have revitalized the Patriots’ running attack, with Stevenson averaging 5 yards per carry against Buffalo, despite fumbling for the seventh time this season.
The Chargers’ front, led by Poona Ford and Otito Ogbonnia, has been inconsistent and will be tested by the Patriots. LA’s defense is stronger against the pass, allowing 213.8 yards per game (13th) and 6.4 yards per pass (7th). Their secondary, despite injuries, has been effective, led by rookie Tarheeb Still and safety Derwin James.
Patriots quarterback Drake Maye has shown promise but has a problem with turnovers, accumulating 15 (10 interceptions and five lost fumbles) in his ten starts. Maye will need to be cautious against a Chargers secondary that has capitalized on mistakes, contributing to their plus-10 turnover ratio. Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh emphasizes a physical running game.
Despite challenges, the running back duo of J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards has combined for 12 touchdowns. Dobbins, averaging 4.8 yards per carry, might return from injury. The Patriots have struggled to stop the run, as evidenced by allowing 172 rushing yards against Buffalo.
The Chargers may exploit these issues with their solid offensive line. The Patriots’ secondary is coming off one of their best games, limiting the Bills to 154 passing yards. Christian Gonzalez continues to shine, while the rest of the secondary has shown tight coverage.
Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert has been efficient with 18 touchdowns and only three interceptions, despite being sacked 40 times. However, the Patriots’ secondary could capitalize on Herbert’s occasional lack of consistent targets. The Chargers have significantly improved under Harbaugh’s leadership, particularly on special teams.
Kicker Cameron Dicker has been reliable, and returner Derius Davis has been effective. The Patriots, missing return specialist Marcus Jones, have seen veteran Alex Erickson step in. New England’s special teams have been inconsistent, which could be a factor in the game, especially with potential weather challenges for the visiting Chargers.
The New England Patriots and the Los Angeles Chargers have had a competitive history. This matchup will add another chapter to their rivalry as both teams look to finish the season on a strong note. The game kicks off at 1:00 PM at Gillette Stadium, promising a critical matchup as the NFL regular season comes to a close.
