The other main story going into Saturday night’s contest is Brandon Staley’s head coaching debut, which comes against his former club as the new Chargers boss left his defensive coordinator position with the Rams last off-season.

NFL Point Spread and Betting Analysis

In 12 career meetings the Rams have a 7-5 advantage over the Chargers but it’s the latter who is 8-3 against the spread in their past 11 head-to-heads. The over is 5-1 in their past six clashes too, with the Rams scoring over 30 a game and both teams averaging well over 100 rushing yards. Overall, the Chargers ended 2020 with the over hitting in nine of their last 13 games. The Rams are near opposite, with the total going under in 11 of their last 15.

Sports Interaction has the Chargers as -3.5-point favourites with the total at 34. For the entire season, the Chargers are listed at over-under 9.5 wins and the Rams 10.5.

Los Angeles Chargers

2021 seems destined to be a breakout year after many surprise positives a season ago. The biggest of course being rookie quarterback Justin Herbert, who showed incredible potential after getting thrown into game action just weeks into the season. Herbert finished 2020 with 4,336 passing yards and 31 touchdowns in 15 games played.

The Chargers brought in centre Corey Linsley from Green Bay on a five-year deal to protect their cornerstone pivot, as well as offensive lineman Matt Feiler and tight end Jared Cook as another pass-catching option. And there’s plenty in L.A., led by veteran Keenan Allen.

Whether any of these players see considerable game reps Saturday is unknown.

Los Angeles Rams

Head coach Sean McVay is clear about his pre-season philosophy with playing his stars. McVay’s told reporters there is zero chance his prized off-season addition, quarterback Matthew Stafford, will take a pre-season snap. Expect the same to be true with the likes of receivers Cooper Kupp and Robert Woods and stud defensive tackle Aaron Donald and cornerback Jalen Ramsey. McVay just isn’t willing to take the risk of injuries.

It makes sense, given the high expectations for the Rams in 2021. With Stafford, many feel McVay has his missing piece in building a team that will take him back to the Super Bowl after going as a 33-year-old head coach in the 2018–19, ultimately losing to New England.

NFL Prediction: Who Will Win Chargers vs. Rams?