LA Chargers at Washington
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, FedExField, Landover, Maryland
TV: CBS
Tipico line: Chargers by 1 1⁄2 Chargers’ keys to victory: Los Angeles must establish a running game and can’t afford to be one-dimensional with Washington’s defensive line in constant pursuit of QB Justin Herbert. Last season, LA ranked No. 18 in rushing offense. RB Austin Ekeler needs to have a big game. If there was one problem with Washington’s defense in 2020, it was the run defense. Defensively, it’s all about forcing Washington QB Ryan Fitzpatrick (169 career interceptions) into making mistakes. If Fitzpatrick is comfortable, he could make life difficult for the Chargers. However, if LA hits him early, it will be difficult for Washington to win.
Washington’s keys to victory: Washington’s big three – RB Antonio Gibson, WR Terry McLaurin and TE Logan Thomas – must be involved early. The Chargers allowed almost 120 rushing yards per game last season. However, this is a completely different defense under new LA head coach Brandon Staley. Washington must find a way to stay balanced and get Gibson involved in the passing game.
Matchup to watch: Chargers LT Rashawn Slater vs. Washington DEs Montez Sweat and Chase Young: Slater, a rookie, faced Young in 2019 when he was at Northwestern and Young played for Ohio State. By all accounts, Slater held his own. If Slater can keep Washington’s pass rush off Herbert, that could be bad news for a defense built on winning up front without sending extra pressure.
Who wins? Washington’s firstteam offense didn’t receive a lot of time on the field in the preseason. The defense, however, looked like it was in midseason form.
Washington, 20-17