NFL Picks: Week 13 Chargers vs Patriots

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The Los Angeles Chargers and the New England Patriots, two teams facing a crucial juncture in their NFL season, are set to clash in week 13 at Gillette Stadium. This matchup is significant for both sides, with the Chargers seeking to end a three-game losing streak and the Patriots looking to break free from a four-game skid.

BUSR NFL Lines

Spread: Chargers -6 (-109), Patriots +6 (-111) 

Moneyline: Chargers -270, Patriots +215

Total: O 40 (-110), U 40 (-110) 

Los Angeles Chargers

The Chargers, currently sitting with a record that doesn’t reflect their potential, are led by star quarterback Justin Herbert. He has thrown for 2,826 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 6 interceptions, showcasing his talent despite recent team struggles. The offense is bolstered by Austin Ekeler, who leads the team with 428 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns, and Joshua Kelley with 360 rushing yards. In the receiving department, Keenan Allen has been exceptional with 1,117 yards and 7 touchdowns. However, the defense remains a point of concern, ranking 32nd in the NFL in both yards allowed per game (390.6) and passing yards allowed per game (280.0). Key defensive players include Kenneth Murray Jr., with a team-high 81 total tackles, Khalil Mack dominating with 13 sacks, and Joey Bosa contributing 6.5 sacks.

New England Patriots

The Patriots’ season has been marred by offensive challenges and inconsistent play. Quarterback Mac Jones, with 2,120 passing yards, 10 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions, is under pressure to elevate the team’s performance. It was recently reported that Jones won’t be the starter and that Bailey Zappe will take his place as the starter on Sunday. 

 The ground game, led by Rhamondre Stevenson with 580 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns, and supported by Ezekiel Elliott’s 377 rushing yards, needs to find more consistency. The receiving corps, featuring Demario Douglas and Kendrick Bourne, has been underwhelming, contributing to the Patriots ranking 31st in the NFL in points per game (13.5). On defense, Ja’Whaun Bentley, with 70 total tackles, Christian Barmore with 3 sacks, and Kyle Dugger with two interceptions, are key players. However, their efforts have not translated into wins, as evidenced by the Patriots’ recent losing streak and struggles against teams with losing records.

Prediction

This game presents an opportunity for the Chargers to leverage their offensive firepower against a struggling Patriots team. Despite their defensive shortcomings, Los Angeles has the weapons to outscore New England, whose offense has been unable to find a consistent rhythm and can’t be trusted at all. 

Expect Justin Herbert to exploit the Patriots’ defense, leading the Chargers to a much-needed victory. For the Patriots, this game is a chance to rectify their offensive woes, but it won’t be easy against a Chargers team desperate to break their losing streak. The matchup promises to be a hard-fought battle, with the Chargers having a slight edge due to their more dynamic offense. Trust them to cover the -6 spread on BUSR’s NFL Odds.