This primetime matchup between the Chargers vs. Bengals will be one of the most important on the Week 11 slate. Los Angeles (6-3) has completely transformed its identity around new head coach Jim Harbaugh. The club’s combination of stellar defense and a dominant rushing attack has been super-effective this season.
Meanwhile, Cincinnati (4-6) desperately needs a season-stabilizing victory. The tandem of Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase leads the league in most passing and receiving categories. However, the club has suffered multiple heartbreakers, including a devastating last-minute loss to the rival Ravens last week.
If they can earn a wildcard berth, Burrow and company could be one of the most dangerous offenses in the playoffs. They simply cannot afford to fall another game below .500.
Chargers vs. Bengals Predictions
Chargers vs Bengals Promo
This FanDuel promo code will give you $200 in bonus bets for as little as $5! Take advantage of this offer in time for this Chargers vs Bengals Sunday Night Football matchup.
Chargers vs. Bengals Odds
- Moneyline: Bengals (+105) vs Chargers (-125)
- Spread: Bengals +1.5 (-110) vs Chargers -1.5 (-110)
- Over/Under: Over 48.0 (-110) / Under 48.0 (-110)
Chargers vs. Bengals Prediction
LA Chargers 20, CIN Bengals 24
The Chargers have plenty of reasons to expect a victory. They have a massive defensive advantage (Los Angeles is 6th best in preventing yards, while Cincinnati ranks 23rd). Their quarterback, Justin Herbert, has the raw talent to match Burrow. The Chargers are a more proven winner. And they are playing at home.
Herbert remains a potential game-changer. JK Dobbins’s breakout season has been immense for Los Angeles. And the defense and philosophy are savage.
However, the must-win nature of this game for the Bengals cannot be overstated. The club currently has only a 36% chance to earn a wildcard berth. If they lose another game and fall to 4-7, it will all but crush their goals.
The franchise was unable to reach an agreement with Chase this offseason. Which adds more pressure to not waste a season of his and Burrow’s prime. Expect the road team to pull out all the stops as they scratch and claw for an essential win.
Chargers vs. Bengals Best Bets
Ja’Marr Chase Over 76.5 Yards (-110)
The defense will make his life difficult. But with their back against the wall, expect Cincinnati to force-feed their superstar early and often. Chase and company cannot afford a loss, but they especially cannot afford the public relations hit of losing a critical game without utilizing their best playmaker.
Chase may not come close to the 264 yards and three-touchdown masterpiece he provided last week. However, whether it comes via regular game flow, or through garbage-time production, bettors can confidently bet the over.
JK Dobbins Over 60.5 Rushing Yards (-110)
Dobbins has been an undeniable breakout player, averaging 74.4 rushing yards per game this season. Meanwhile, the Bengals’ defense is in the bottom half of the league in rushing yards allowed (they rank 17th, surrendering 127.3 yards per game).
The Comeback Player of the Year candidate, Dobbins, has a realistic chance to surpass the 75-yard (+190) and 100-yard (+500) marks. Bettors should choose their level of risk and take advantage of Dobbins this week!
Main Photo: Albert Cesare/The Enquirer-USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
