The Los Angeles Chargers head across town to face the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium in this week’s NFL Preseason battle for LA. While both teams share the same home field, this matchup carries extra weight as Jim Harbaugh’s Chargers continue building momentum behind a resurgent Trey Lance, and the Rams try to steady the ship with Matthew Stafford nursing a worrisome back injury. With both teams showing flashes of promise in their preseason openers, this crosstown rivalry offers compelling betting angles even in August.
Quick Picks:https://www.predictem.com/best-sportsbooks/reduced-juice/
- Best Bet: Chargers -3 (-110) ★★★★☆
- Top Prop: Caleb Murphy Over 0.5 Sacks (+115) ★★★★★
- Value Play: First Half Under 20.5 Points (-110) ★★★☆☆
- Bet at Reduced Odds -105 instead of -110 at BetAnyThing!
Chargers vs Rams Betting Odds & Line Movement
| Market | Chargers | Rams |
|---|---|---|
| Moneyline | -160 | +140 |
| Point Spread | -3 (-110) | +3 (-110) |
| Total | Over 38.5 (-110) | Under 38.5 (-110) |
Opening Line: Chargers -2.5, Total 37.5
Sharp Money Breakdown: Where the Smart Bets Are Going
When this line opened at Chargers -2.5, there was immediate action pushing it to the key number of -3. This reflects the sharp money’s confidence in Jim Harbaugh’s methodical approach to preseason games and the Chargers’ impressive 2-0 start. Meanwhile, the total has ticked up slightly from 37.5 to 38.5, suggesting professional bettors expect slightly more scoring than initially projected. With Stafford sidelined for the Rams and Trey Lance likely to see extended action for the Chargers, the quarterback disparity is driving much of this movement.
Quarterback Matchup: Trey Lance vs Stetson Bennett – Who Has the Edge?
Chargers: Trey Lance
- Thrown for 175 yards and 2 TDs in preseason while adding 48 rushing yards and a TD
- Growing more comfortable in Harbaugh’s system with each passing week
- Showing the dual-threat ability that made him the #3 overall pick in 2021
Rams: Stetson Bennett
- Impressive showing vs Cowboys with 188 yards and 2 TDs on 16-of-24 passing
- Making a case to move up the depth chart behind an ailing Stafford
- Still prone to mistakes with 1 INT vs Dallas and inconsistent decision-making
QB Edge: Chargers. Lance’s combination of arm talent and mobility gives the Chargers a distinct advantage, especially in preseason scenarios where scrambling ability can be the difference-maker against vanilla defenses.
Defense Comparison: Which Unit Will Step Up?
The Chargers’ defense has been the more impressive unit this preseason, allowing just 20 points across two games while generating consistent pressure. UDFA edge rusher Caleb Murphy has been a revelation, recording multiple sacks against the Saints and drawing praise from Harbaugh. The Rams surrendered 21 points to Dallas, though their first-team defense held up reasonably well. The real difference comes in depth – the Chargers appear to have more quality throughout their defensive rotation, which becomes increasingly important as preseason games progress into the second half.
Key Betting Trends & Team Stats You Should Know
- Chargers are 2-0 SU and ATS this preseason, outscoring opponents 61-20
- Rams covered as 2.5-point underdogs in their preseason opener against Dallas
- Jim Harbaugh is 7-3 ATS in his last 10 preseason games as a head coach
- The Chargers ranked 2nd in scoring defense last season (18.5 PPG)
- Rams’ Matthew Stafford continues to miss practice with back issues, creating uncertainty at QB
Caleb Murphy: UDFA Edge Rusher Making a Name for Himself
Former UDFA Caleb Murphy has been the surprise story of Chargers camp, recording multiple sacks against the Saints and drawing high praise from Jim Harbaugh. The Ferris State product initially signed with the Titans last season before landing on the Chargers practice squad. Now, he’s making a strong push not just for a roster spot but potentially meaningful snaps in the regular season. Murphy’s explosiveness off the edge could create problems for the Rams’ backup offensive tackles, making his sack prop one of the most appealing options on the board.
SoFi Stadium Factor: What to Expect on Game Day
Though both teams call SoFi Stadium home, this is technically a Rams home game. Expect a somewhat balanced crowd as both fanbases try to establish presence in the LA market. The controlled environment of the dome eliminates weather concerns, allowing both offenses to operate without environmental limitations. The familiarity both teams have with the venue negates any typical home-field advantage, though the Rams’ regular season sideline and locker room setup might provide minimal comfort.
Expert Prediction & Best Bets for Chargers vs Rams
Primary Play: Chargers -3 (-110)
I’m laying the points with the Chargers here. Jim Harbaugh has shown throughout his coaching career that he takes preseason seriously, and that approach is evident in the Chargers’ 2-0 start. The quarterback situation heavily favors the Chargers, with Trey Lance looking increasingly comfortable while the Rams navigate Matthew Stafford’s back issues. The Chargers also have better depth across the board, particularly on defense where players like Caleb Murphy have emerged as legitimate difference-makers.
Strong Value Play: First Half Under 20.5 Points (-110)
Both defensive units have looked sharp early in preseason games, and I expect that trend to continue here. The Chargers have allowed just 20 total points in two games, while the Rams’ defensive front has generated consistent pressure. Early in the contest, we should see more conservative play-calling as both offenses settle in. Look for a low-scoring first half before things potentially open up in the second half as depth players enter the game.
Worth Considering: Trey Lance Over 34.5 Rushing Yards (-110)
Lance has demonstrated his willingness to use his legs this preseason, rushing for 48 yards against the Saints. Harbaugh’s offensive scheme has historically maximized the talents of mobile quarterbacks, and Lance should have opportunities to escape the pocket against a Rams defense that will likely deploy basic coverages and minimal blitzing. With Lance likely to play at least a quarter and potentially more, this number seems too low given his running ability.
Top Player Props for Chargers vs Rams
| Player | Prop | Odds | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caleb Murphy (LAC) | Over 0.5 Sacks | +115 | ★★★★★ |
| Trey Lance (LAC) | Over 34.5 Rushing Yards | -110 | ★★★★☆ |
| Stetson Bennett (LAR) | Over 145.5 Passing Yards | -110 | ★★★☆☆ |
| Raheim Sanders (LAC) | Anytime Touchdown | +140 | ★★★☆☆ |
| Brennan Presley (LAR) | Over 2.5 Receptions | -125 | ★★★★☆ |
Final Thoughts: Harbaugh’s Methodical Approach Gives Chargers the Edge
While preseason results shouldn’t be overvalued, there’s something to be said for Jim Harbaugh’s approach to these games. He’s building a culture of winning in Los Angeles, and that extends to August football. With Trey Lance showing signs of the potential that made him a high draft pick and defensive standouts like Caleb Murphy emerging, the Chargers appear to be the more complete team at this stage of the preseason. Meanwhile, the Rams have legitimate concerns about Matthew Stafford’s health lingering over their camp, and while Stetson Bennett showed promise against Dallas, the overall quarterback situation favors the Chargers significantly.
Score Prediction: Chargers 24, Rams 17
Note: Our projections about who’s playing in preseason are based on the latest updates from beat reporters, coaches, and players. Sometimes, that info changes at the last minute or doesn’t pan out on game day. If you can’t personally confirm who’s suiting up, we recommend keeping your action light—think “beer money” bets only. Bet your preseason NFL picks for FREE by scoring a 100% real cash bonus!
