The San Diego Chargers enter their Monday Night Football game against the Denver Broncos as heavy favorites Vegas is saying the Chargers are nine-point home favorites against the Broncos.
The Chargers are 4-5 and winners of their last two. They're trying to hang in the AFC West behind the 6-4 Kansas City Chiefs and 5-5 Oakland Raiders. They've got the top passing offense in the NFL -- Philip Rivers is having an incredible season -- and also boast the top passing defense in the NFL. The Chargers stats would indicate they're an elite team but their special teams play would not. The Chargers seem to always go on a midseason run to make their playoff statement and they'll need to continue to do that against Denver on Monday night if they're hoping for a return to the playoffs.
The Broncos are coming off of a blowout victory over the Chiefs that saw the passing game light it up. It's obvious what their offense is about -- they're the No. 3 ranked passing offense and No. 32 ranked rushing offense. The Broncos want to throw the ball, plain and simple. Defensively they'll have some problems against the Chargers. The Broncos rank 30th in the NFL in points allowed and 31st against the run. They'll have their hands full against the Chargers offense.
This game has huge divisional implications. A San Diego loss would put them two games behind the Chiefs with six to play. A San Diego win puts the solidly in second place along with the Raiders. The Broncos, 3-6, have slim playoff hopes remaining but absolutely must win this game to keep that going.
Check out Bolts From The Blue and Mile High Report for more on the game.