NFL
The under stands out because it aligns with both recent scoring output and the defensive numbers on each side. Arizona’s offense finished at 20.9 points per game, and Los Angeles allowed just 20.0 points per game. On the other side, the Cardinals allowed 28.7 points per game, but the Chargers’ own offense averaged only 21.6 points per game, which leaves room for a controlled result without requiring a shootout. The combined profile points more toward a mid-40s finish than a game that pushes well into the upper 40s.
Los Angeles enters with the cleaner recent form on both sides of the ball. The Chargers posted a positive turnover margin of plus-2, created 23 takeaways, and held opponents to 179.9 passing yards per game and 20.0 points per game. Arizona’s defense had trouble finishing possessions, allowing 488 points across 17 games and 28.7 points per game. Offensively, the Cardinals managed 232.6 passing yards per game and 93.1 rushing yards per game, but that production did not translate into consistent scoring, and their turnover margin of minus-2 shows how often drives stalled or flipped field position. The Chargers were not explosive every week, but they were steadier. They averaged 333.8 yards per game, rushed for 121.6 yards per game, and allowed only 285.2 yards per game. Their passing defense also looks well positioned to limit Arizona’s main route to sustained offense. Arizona’s recent efficiency numbers, including 5.2 yards per play and 5.6 yards per play allowed, are respectable in spots, but the overall season results show a team that struggled to keep up once games got into longer scoring stretches.
Los Angeles should have the better control of the game, but the total still looks a touch inflated relative to both teams’ scoring profiles. Arizona’s offense was below average, the Chargers’ defense was one of the better units in this matchup, and Los Angeles itself was not a high-octane scoring team last season. The projection is Los Angeles Chargers 27, Arizona Cardinals 17, with the under as the preferred side.
