The San Diego Chargers are coming off an embarrassing loss at rival New England, and they next travel to Lambeau Field to do battle against an improved Green Bay team.
The Chargers were thoroughly dominated in their 38-14 loss at New England, falling behind 24-0 by halftime. Young quarterback Philip Rivers looked like a deer in headlights for most of the game, going 19-for-30 for 179 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions, while LaDainian Tomlinson was held to just 43 yards on 18 carries. The Chargers held the ball for just over 24 minutes and committed three turnovers as a team while looking completely overwhelmed. The defense was not much better, giving up 407 total yards to the Patriots, and this game has made a lot of people question whether the Chargers have what it takes to compete with New England and Indianapolis in the AFC.
The Packers jumped out to a 2-0 start with a convincing 35-13 win at New York over the Giants last week, and Brett Favre showed shades of his glory days with a vintage performance. The veteran quarterback was 29-for-38 for 286 yards, three touchdowns, and an interception, and he was moving in and around the pocket like he did in the mid-90s. Donald Driver continues to be Favre's go-to receiver, catching eight passes for 73 yards and a major, as he is showing no ill effects from a preseason foot injury. Meanwhile, the Packers' defense allowed 325 yards to the Giants and forced two turnovers while generally harassing Eli Manning all game. The Packers are very underrated on defense, as this was clearly the strength of the team last season.
The Chargers enter this big matchup as 5-point favorites on the road, and this is a more important game than San Diego would like it to be. The Chargers must prove they can rebound in the face of adversity, and it is imperative that Tomlinson get as many touches as possible. The Packers have to use their home-field advantage to stay with the Chargers, while Favre has to limit his mistakes against a fast San Diego defense.
Odds (WagerWeb)
San Diego: -5
Green Bay: +5 (O/U 43)
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