The Carolina Panthers (0-2) and Los Angeles Chargers (1-1) hook up at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles Sunday. Kickoff is at 4:05 p.m. ET (on FOX). Here we analyze the Panthers-Chargers Week 3 matchup, including the betting odds, spread and lines, and look at the best NFL betting options.
Panthers at Chargers betting odds and lines
Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Friday at 4 p.m. ET
- Money line: Chargers -278 (Bet $278, win $100) | Panthers +225 (bet $100, win $225)
- Against the spread/ATS: Chargers -6.5 (-110) | Panthers +6.5 (-110)
- Over/Under: 43.5 (O: -110, U: -110)
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Panthers at Chargers game notes
- The big news in this game is the loss of Panthers RB Christian McCaffrey last week due to a high-ankle sprain. He will be sidelined for the next four to six weeks, so RB Mike Davis is expected to take over.
- The Carolina offense had been fairly effective before CMC’s injury, and is averaging 23.5 points per game in the first two games. The defense is atrocious, allowing 32.5 PPG to rank 27th in the NFL.
- The Chargers have struggled a bit offensively, posting just 18.0 PPG, but they have split their first two games straight up while going 2-0 ATS. The Under is also 2-0 for the Bolts so far.
- LA ranks seventh offensively in total yards, posting 420.5 per game while amassing 169.0 rushing yards per outing to check-in sixth. Its red-zone efficiency is a lousy 50.0% to rank 26th in the league.
- Carolina is just 1-5 ATS across the past six road games, 0-6-1 ATS in the previous seven games overall and 0-5-1 ATS in the past six as an underdog.
Panthers at Chargers key injuries
Panthers
- OT Russell Okung (groin) questionable
- DT Kawann Short (foot) doubtful
Chargers
- OT Bryan Bulaga (knee) questionable
- DE Melvin Ingram III (knee) doubtful
- QB Tyrod Taylor (ribs, chest) out
- LB Nick Vigil (groin) doubtful
Panthers at Chargers: Odds, betting lines, picks and prediction
Prediction
Chargers 26, Panthers 15
Money line (?)
The Chargers (-278) have really struggled scoring in the red zone for whatever reason, and that makes them susceptible to the upset even as a larger favorite. They catch a break with McCaffrey out, but they have plenty of nicked up players of their own, including Taylor. AVOID.
Against the spread (?)
CHARGERS (-6.5, -110) is the play, although I’d go rather lightly on it. It’s plenty attractive, however, as long as it stays on this side of seven. LA has had a difficult time cashing long drives in for points, but the defense is stout enough to steal wins every time out.
In fact, the Chargers could be one of the better defensive units in the league. Carolina is awful defensively, and ultimately that will be the difference in this one.
Over/Under (?)
In today’s NFL playing UNDER 43.5 (-110) is a bit risky, but the combination of LA’s strong D and its struggling red-zone offense means regular Under plays.
They’re one of just four NFL teams to hit the Under in each of the first two weekends. The Panthers will struggle mightily on offense with their biggest star in a walking boot for at least the next month.
Want action on this NFL game? Sign up and bet at BetMGM. If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.
Also see:
- 7 Panthers who need to step up in Week 3 (Panthers Wire)
- What the Panthers are saying about Chargers QB Justin Herbert (Chargers Wire)
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