The Los Angeles Chargers were finally able to put an end to their three-game losing streak with a victory over the Chicago Bears in Week 8. Despite the low-scoring affair, quarterback Philip Rivers was able to do just enough to secure the win.
The Chargers were expected to have some difficulty scoring against this formidable Bears defense. However, they face a much daunting task in Week 9 against a Green Bay Packers team that is in the midst of a four-game winning streak.
The Chargers know full well they are going to have to put some points on the board if they hope to keep up with this high-powered Green Bay offense led by quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Of course, any success they enjoy on offense will have to start with some strong play under center from Rivers.
Here are three bold predictions for Rivers in Week 9 against the Packers.
3. Rivers Will Top 400 Yards Passing
Rivers is coming off a rough performance that saw him throw for a season-low 201 yards against Chicago. The veteran still has yet to even come close to topping at least 400 passing yards this year. Regardless, he still has the third-most passing yards in the league heading into Week 9, which shows he is still more than capable of turning it on when he needs to.
Fortunately, Los Angeles has managed to shore up their pass protection in recent weeks while wide receiver Keenan Allen has managed to find a way to play through his hamstring injury. Rivers will need to be prepared for a pass-heavy approach if his team falls behind early.
2. Rivers Will Throw Three Touchdowns
Rivers has not recorded a hat trick since their overtime victory against the Indianapolis Colts in the 2019 NFL season opener. This may come as a bit of a surprise given how often the veteran drops back every game, however, it can likely be attributed to their run-heavy approach in the red zone.
Even if Allen is on a restriction once again, Rivers will not throw for over 400 yards without something to show for it. Expect him to find either wide receiver Mike Williams or running back Austin Ekeler for multiple touchdowns.
1. Rivers Will Not Turn The Ball Over
Rivers' gunslinger approach has always left him susceptible to turnovers throughout his career and the 2019 campaign is no different. He is currently tied for the third-most interceptions in the league with seven to go with two fumbles thus far.
The veteran knows full well that he cannot grant any extra opportunities for Rodgers to get on offense. Even if the Chargers somehow turn the ball over, it will not be any fault of Rivers'.