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LA Chargers (11-5-0) at Denver (13-3-0)
- When: Jan 4 2026, 4:25 PM
- Where: Empower Field at Mile High, Denver, CO
- Where to watch: CBS
- Last Meeting: LAC 23-20, September 21st, 2025
LA Chargers vs Denver Preview & Prediction
Spread: Denver -14.0
Moneyline: Denver (-1200)
Total: 38.0
Denver Broncos Betting Breakdown
Denver treats this game like a playoff dress rehearsal. One more win locks up the top seed in the AFC and a first round bye, and Sean Payton has made it clear there is no easing off the gas. The Broncos have been dominant all season, built around an elite pass rush and a defense that controls games snap by snap.
The numbers tell the story. Denver leads the league in sacks and sits near the top in yards per play allowed, third down defense, and red zone efficiency. This unit does not rely on turnovers to win. They simply suffocate opponents and force long drives that usually stall.
Offensively, the Broncos have been steady rather than flashy, but that has been enough when paired with their defense. Playing at altitude with postseason stakes only adds to their edge. This is a focused team with bigger goals than divisional bragging rights.
Los Angeles Chargers Betting Breakdown
The Chargers arrive in Denver with a very different mindset. Their playoff position is set, and protecting key players takes priority. Justin Herbert is sidelined to heal, leaving Trey Lance to make the start in a difficult road environment.
Lance brings athleticism and upside, but asking him to operate against the league’s most aggressive pass rush is a tough assignment. The Chargers offense has already struggled finishing drives recently, and that problem becomes magnified without its franchise quarterback.
Defensively, Los Angeles has shown cracks, giving up explosive plays and missing key opportunities in the red zone. While the effort will be there, the Chargers are clearly managing risk rather than chasing style points.
Prediction
This matchup profiles as one way traffic. Denver has everything to gain and Los Angeles has every reason to play conservatively. The Broncos defense should control the game early, create short fields, and keep the Chargers from ever finding rhythm.
Expect Denver to methodically build a lead, lean on its defense, and cruise into the postseason with momentum intact.
Final Score: Broncos 27, Chargers 10
Lean: Denver -14.0
Total: Under 38.0
- NFL Football Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
