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The Los Angeles Chargers and the Seattle Seahawks will play their last game of the preseason on Saturday night. It's time to continue our NFL odds series and make a Chargers-Seahawks prediction and pick.
Neither of these teams has had a great preseason so far. The Chargers managed to scrape out a win against the Los Angeles Rams in week one, but they quickly lost their momentum with a week two loss to the San Francisco 49ers. The Seahawks have lost by two scores or more in both of their matchups, partially because they've taken the more and more common approach of sitting most of their starters for the preseason. Both of these squads would love to head into the regular season on a high note, so expect a competitive game in this one.
Here's how the bookmakers have set the lines for Saturday's game.
NFL Odds: Chargers-Seahawks Odds
Los Angeles Chargers +5 (-112)
Seattle Seahawks -5 (-108)
Over 35 points (-115)
Under 35 points (-105)
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Why The Chargers Could Win
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Los Angeles has stayed in their first two games almost only because of their defense. The entire unit has been fantastic, allowing only 21 points over the last two contests. The defensive line racked up four sacks and nine quarterback hits in the last two weeks, with the secondary notching three interceptions in that span. The Los Angeles defenders should be licking their lips as they head into a game against a Seahawks team that's scored 10 points in the last two games combined.
The Chargers haven't been particularly good on offense, but they've stayed in games because of their solid quarterback play. Backups Chase Daniel and Easton Stick have each provided reliable, mistake-free play in the first two preseason contests, and there's no reason that should change in this one. The Seahawks have allowed 50 points throughout the preseason, so they clearly aren't that hard to score on. Look for Daniel and Stick to continue their efficient play and lead the Chargers to a decent offensive showing.
Why The Seahawks Could Win
Seattle's offense has been one of the worst in the league throughout this oreseason, but there's reason to believe that they'll improve in this game. Quarterback Alex McGough is no longer on the roster, so the Seahawks have upgraded hugely at quarterback. It's likely that primary backup Geno Smith will play more in the preseason finale than he has in all of the other games combined, which will automatically give Seattle a huge offensive boost. Expect a far better showing from this Seahawks offense now that they have a competent signal-caller running the offense.
If you took a look at the final score of either of Seattle's last two games, you would probably assume that their defense has been a huge problem. In reality, the Seahawks defense has been pretty solid, but it's nearly impossible to put together a good defensive performance when the opponent is winning in time of possession and the field position battle. This Seattle defense should improve with the offense, as they've shown flashes of solid play throughout the preseason, notching six sacks, three forced fumbles, and an interception over two games.
Final Chargers-Seahawks Prediction & Pick
Seattle will improve in this game, but seeing them as the favorite heading into this contest is mind-boggling. The Chargers should easily cover the spread. I would even place a bet on the Chargers to win straight-up against this Seattle team that has looked terrible over their first two appearances.
FINAL PICK: Los Angeles Chargers +5 (-112)
