Prediction poll for matchup between Chargers, Patriots

Can Justin Herbert overcome Bill Belichick’s dominance against rookie quarterbacks?

The Los Angeles Chargers are set to face off against the New England Patriots on Sunday, Dec. 6 at 1:25 p.m. PT at SoFi Stadium.

The Chargers are nearly out of playoff contention, with players and coaches fighting for their jobs while the Patriots are looking to claw their way into playoff contention.

Offensively, Los Angeles has strived for a balanced approach, especially with running back Austin Ekeler back in the mix. The team continues to have no issue moving the ball, as they’re averaging 397.8 yards per game. On the other side of the ball, L.A. has struggled to limit opponents from getting on the scoreboard, as they’re allowing 27.3 points per game.

Meanwhile, New England’s offense has revolved around a run-heavy approach with quarterback Cam Newton and running backs Damien Harris and James White, averaging 149.6 yards per game and amassing 17 rushing touchdowns. Defensively, they rank in the middle of the pack, with their pass defense being a little bit stronger with a stout secondary.

I expect quarterback Justin Herbert to have a big game, despite coach Bill Belichick being superior against rookie signal-callers. But the Patriots will run all over the Chargers and Belichick will out-coach Anthony Lynn to propel his team to victory. I’ve got New England winning by the score of 27-24.

What do you guys think? Post in the poll below.

Chargers offense preparing for familiar face

After six seasons with the Chargers, Adrian Phillips is thriving in New England.

The Chargers made the tough decision to let go of Adrian Phillips this past offseason, who ultimately decided to sign with the Patriots.

After spending six seasons with the Bolts, Phillips has turned out to be a solid addition by New England. Starting all 11 games, the 28-year old leads the team in tackles (70). He also has three passes defenses and three interceptions on the season.

Phillips served as a key defender in his role as the team’s dime linebacker as well as a core special teamer. Given how poor Los Angeles’ special teams unit has been this season, his presence on the field would’ve been beneficial.

Coach Bill Belichick is grateful to have a player like Phillips, calling him “a good addition for us.” Belichick added that he is very instinctive, has a number of roles in our system, is a good football player and great guy to work with.

If Phillips was such an important piece, why did L.A. elect to move on from him? Coach Anthony Lynn explained.

“You never want to lose a player like Adrian,” Lynn said. “But free agency, every year a page is going to turn over in terms of the roster, and sometimes you just can’t keep everyone. He just happened to fall into that category. We liked him a lot, he was very good and productive player for us. We miss him dearly.”

Phillips is a part of a secondary that features reigning Defensive Player of the Year, cornerback Stephon Gilmore and J.C. Jackson, who is second in the NFL in interceptions (6). The Patriots, who are allowing 229.2 yards per game, will be looking to make life difficult for red-hot quarterback Justin Herbert this Sunday.

Chargers open up as slight favorites over Patriots in Week 13

The Los Angeles Chargers are looking to dig themselves out of a hole.

The Los Angeles Chargers (3-8) are looking to dig themselves out of a hole after dropping their eighth game of the season last weekend to the Buffalo Bills.

Going into this weekend’s contest, the Chargers are favored by a point over the New England Patriots (5-6) in Week 13 of the 2020 regular season, per BetMGM.

After forcing three takeaways, Los Angeles had a few opportunities to jump out on top over Buffalo. But poor game and clock management and decision-making by coach Anthony Lynn held them back.

Meanwhile, New England put on a stellar defensive performance against the Arizona Cardinals, holding wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins just 55 yards receiving while quarterback Cam Newton struggled to find consistency.

Sunday’s matchup will begin at 1:25 p.m. PT and will be televised on CBS.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

Chargers open up as slight favorites over Patriots in Week 13

The Los Angeles Chargers are looking to dig themselves out of a hole.

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The Los Angeles Chargers (3-8) are looking to dig themselves out of a hole after dropping their eighth game of the season last weekend to the Buffalo Bills.

Going into this weekend’s contest, the Chargers are favored by a point over the New England Patriots (5-6) in Week 13 of the regular season, per BetMGM.

After forcing three turnovers, Los Angeles had a few opportunities to jump out on top over Buffalo. But poor game management and clock management by coach Anthony Lynn held them back.

Meanwhile, New England put on a stellar defensive performance against the Arizona Cardinals, holding wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins just 55 yards receiving while quarterback Cam Newton struggled to find consistency.

Sunday’s matchup will begin at 1:25 p.m. PT and will be televised on CBS.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.