Chargers (10-6) at Broncos (4-12)

Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET, Empower Field at Mile High, Denver TV: CBS

Tipico Sportsbook line: Chargers

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Chargers’ keys to victory: It remains to be seen how the Chargers will handle their starters in a regular-season finale that does not have a playoff berth on the line. If LA decides to rest QB Justin Herbert, backup Chase Daniel will be tasked with protecting the ball against a play-making Denver defense that limited Herbert to no touchdowns and one interception in Week 6. On defense, the Chargers will likely focus on a Broncos rushing attack that features three capable running backs who helped the team rush for 117 yards in Week 17.

Broncos’ keys to victory: This year has been a season to forget for QB Russell Wilson, who has a career-low 13 touchdown passes in 14 games. His previous single-season career low was 20 in 2014. If Denver is going to beat LA (and have hope of better days ahead), Wilson will need to finish the season on a strong note. On defense, the Broncos pass rushers will look to generate pressure and force the Chargers into mistakes.

Matchup to watch: Chargers CB Bryce Callahan vs. Broncos WR Jerry Jeudy. Going up against his former team for the second time this season, Callahan will be tasked with covering Jeudy when the receiver lines up in the slot. Jeudy, who caught three passes for 54 yards against LA, has been Denver’s best wide receiver in 2022.

Who wins? The Chargers have clinched a playoff spot, and their potential seeding for a first-round matchup probably isn’t a big concern. Denver is playing for pride, but with the regulars in the lineup, the Broncos could win at home.

Broncos, 20-17

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