Chargers vs Rams odds and prediction for Week 17 battle for LA
By Jason Reed
The LA Chargers produced one of the quickest turnarounds in the NFL this season, going from having less than a 50% chance of making the playoffs to clinching a playoff spot just three weeks later. With two more games to play, Chargers fans can rest easy knowing their team will make the dance.
There is still something for the Bolts to play for, though. Not only does the team want to continue its momentum into the postseason but getting the fifth seed would also be huge. If the Chargers can win out they can be the fifth seed if the Ravens lose a game.
Luckily the Chargers have two of the worst teams in the league on the schedule, starting with the LA Rams in Week 17. The Rams drubbed the other team on the Chargers' schedule — the Denver Broncos — in Week 16, 51-14. That outcome and the Chargers clinching have an impact on the betting lines and our prediction.
Chargers vs Rams odds Week 17:
The Chargers are the designated home team in this game but it really does not make that big of a difference. Regardless, the Bolts are 6.5-point favorites in this game, making the team a -275 moneyline favorite. The Rams, meanwhile, are a +225 moneyline underdog.
The point total for this game has been set at 42.5 points. This is one of the lowest lines in a Chargers game all season as the Bolts' defense has been playing well and the Rams, despite last week, don't really have an explosive offense.
Chargers vs Rams prediction Week 17:
We went 2-0 last week on our picks against the spread and the over/under and I feel confident about this game as well. The fact that the Chargers clinched and the Rams played well should not change much, as this game should not be close.
This is not a Chargers team that is interested in limping into the playoffs. This is a Chargers team that wants to make a statement before the playoffs, especially as key players return from injury. Brandon Staley's guys are not letting their foot off the gas in this game, even though they have every reason to.
I still do not love the Chargers' offense despite all of the talent on that side of the ball. The defense, however, has done a complete 180 and should be able to take care of business easily against Baker Mayfield and Cam Akers.
This game will be similar to the Colts game but with Aaron Donald likely not playing, the Rams will not be able to generate the interior pressure on the QB that the Colts were able to. Thus, the Chargers' offense should operate a bit more smoothly, albeit will still be held back by flawed playcalling.
I am taking Chargers -6.5 and under 42.5 points with a final score prediction of Chargers 27, Rams 13.
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Odds update periodically and are subject to change after publication.