WHO HAS THE EDGE?
Quarterback
Teddy Bridgewater is coming off one of his poorest performances of the season in the loss to the Eagles, while the Chargers’ Justin Herbert (22 TDS, eight interceptions) has taken another huge leap forward after winning AP Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2020. Edge: Chargers
Running back
The Broncos boast the tandem of rookie Javonte Williams and veteran (and excharger) Melvin Gordon. They will likely continue to see near-equal carries. L.A.’S Austin Ekeler (Eaton High/western State) is a dual-threat to run and catch passes out of the backfield. Edge: Even
Receiver/tight end
After signing contract extensions, look for wideouts Tim Patrick and Courtland Sutton to make a statement. Jerry Jeudy, Noah Fant and Albert Okwuegbunam should be involved, too. The Chargers boast the potent tandem of Keenan Allen and Mike Williams. Edge: Broncos
Offensive line
Left tackle Garett Bolles remains on the Covid/reserve list, while right tackle Bobby Massie is doubtful (ankle), so backups Calvin Anderson and Cam Fleming will go. Ex-bronco Michael Schofield anchors L.A.’S O-line, which ranks sixth in sacks allowed. Edge: Even
Defensive line
After Denver’s front was gashed for a season-high 216 rushing yards in the defeat to the Eagles, Mike Purcell, Dre’mont Jones and Shelby Harris (questionable with ankle injury) must respond. The Chargers’ D-line anchor, Linval Joseph, is on the COVID list. Edge: Even
Linebacker/edge rusher
Outside linebacker Bradley Chubb might return from an ankle injury that’s sidelined him since Week 2, while on the inside, Justin Strnad is back after missing Week 10 with COVID. L.A. has game-wrecker Joey Bosa and the underrated Uchenna Nwosu. Edge: Chargers
Secondary
Safety Kareem Jackson is doubtful due to a neck/shoulder injury, so rookie Caden Sterns gets his first start alongside Justin Simmons. Asante Samuel Jr. is sidelined (concussion), so ex-bronco Chris Harris Jr. will have an elevated role in outside coverage. Edge: Chargers
Special teams
The Chargers’ units rank toward the bottom of football in most special teams categories, so the Broncos’ ineptitude in that area may have finally met its match. Both teams have above-grade kickers in Brandon Mcmanus and Dustin Hopkins (signed Oct. 26).