LA Chargers: Early game-by-game 2020 record prediction
Week 4: @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Tom Brady has always been tough against the Chargers. He’s still undefeated against them and will look to keep it that way coming into their Week 4 matchup. There’s a little added fuel to the fire here, considering that Brady’s free-agent decision came down to Tampa Bay and Los Angeles.
In addition to the fact that the Buccaneers have obviously gotten better over the course of the offseason, it’s an early east coast start for the Chargers. Those don’t tend to go well for teams traveling from the west coast. Despite the teams being fairly even, the Buccaneers have a huge advantage in that regard.
What to watch for: Can the Chargers pressure Brady? If the pass rush is active early and often, the Chargers will have a chance to steal this game on the road. On the other hand, Tampa Bay boosted their offensive line in the draft with Tristan Wirfs.
Frankly, it’s a tough matchup for the Chargers, especially on the road. I need to see the Buccaneers’ offense before declaring them Super Bowl contenders, but they’ve put themselves in a good position this offseason. Bruce Arians hands the Chargers their first loss of the season.
Record: 3-1
Week 5: @ New Orleans Saints
The Chargers face their third NFC South opponent in Week 5 when they go marching into the Superdome. This is one of the Chargers’ two primetime games this season. The schedulers didn’t do the Chargers any favors with this two-game road trip against some of the NFC’s best.
Despite an aging Drew Brees, the Saints’ roster is still loaded. Offensively, they can throw the whole kitchen sink at opposing defenses with Michael Thomas, Emmanuel Sanders, Tre’Quan Smith, Alvin Kamara, and new tight end Adam Trautman. Brees is going to love throwing to Trautman in the red zone.
Malcolm Jenkins and Zack Baun were two amazing defensive additions. If this is Brees’ final year the Saints are going all out for that elusive second Super Bowl title.
What to watch for: How the Chargers’ secondary deals with the Saints’ weapons. Michael Davis needs to do well in coverage against Sanders and other targets while Hayward covers Thomas.
The conditions of the game already weren’t optimal for the Chargers with primetime in the Superdome, but the Saints really have gotten even better in the offseason. I’d love to say the Chargers will keep it close at least, but I’m not sure that’s true.
Record: 3-2