Jaguars (1-5) at Chargers (1-4)
Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET, SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, Calif.
TV: CBS
Danny Sheridan’s line: Chargers by 8
Chargers’ keys to victory: Continue to roll with what’s working, which is letting rookie QB Justin Herbert cook. He has been on fire, even against some top defenses, throwing for 1,195 yards with nine TDs and three interceptions. The Jaguars have allowed 13 passing TDs this season. Play-calling has to be on point, allowing Herbert to do his thing on early downs rather than running the ball on first and second downs and forcing the offense into third-and-long situations. Defensively, Los Angeles has to generate more pressure and limit explosive plays.
Jaguars’ keys to victory: Establish a passing attack with QB Gardner Minshew. LA’s defense has given up an average of 341 passing yards the past two games, largely due to the fact key players on the back end have been hurt and players are still getting accustomed to DC Gus Bradley’s different looks in coverage. Defensively, Jacksonville needs to take advantage of a struggling offensive line by getting in Herbert’s face.
Matchup to watch: Jaguars wide receivers vs. Chargers defensive backs. LA’s defense ranks near the bottom of the NFL in pass defense. Even with CB Casey Hayward out there, it’s gotten ugly; Hayward is on track to be targeted the most in his career. The Jaguars have a slew of options that Minshew will look to, led by WRs Laviska Shenault Jr. and DJ Chark Jr.
Who wins? Fresh off a bye, the Chargers learn from their mistakes. Herbert delivers another strong performance.
Chargers, 30-21