Chargers Look to Build Momentum Against Struggling Cardinals in Monday Night Showdown

Looking to build momentum after an impressive win against the Broncos, the Los Angeles Chargers (3-2) are set to travel to Glendale, Arizona, for a Monday night matchup against the struggling Cardinals (2-4). With both teams facing different challenges this season, fans can expect a clash of styles as the Chargers aim for consistency while the Cardinals look to regain their form.

Current Team Form

Los Angeles Chargers

Coach Jim Harbaugh has instilled a winning mantra in Southern California: “Play great defense and pound the rock.” This philosophy has certainly been evident on the field. The Chargers currently boast the league’s best defense, yielding an NFL-low 13.2 points per game. However, it’s not just the defense; the offense is also coming into its own, led by running back J.K. Dobbins, who is averaging a remarkable 5.4 yards per carry this season.

The Chargers rank 10th in rushing yards in the league and with the return of tackles Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt, they are looking to control the line of scrimmage. After a dominant display against the Broncos, where they orchestrated a remarkable 20-play, 10-minute drive, the Chargers are eager to continue their success in Glendale.

Arizona Cardinals

In contrast, the Arizona Cardinals have struggled significantly on both sides of the ball this season, particularly on defense. Currently ranked 29th in the NFL in stopping the run, the Cardinals will face a daunting task in containing the Chargers’ powerful rushing attack. To counteract their defensive weakness, Arizona will rely heavily on quarterback Kyler Murray.

Murray has been inconsistent this year but showed flashes of brilliance, even leading the Cardinals to a victory over San Francisco. For Arizona to have a chance against the Chargers, Murray will need to tap into his dual-threat capabilities and deliver an exceptional performance, both through the air and on the ground.

Game Details

When and Where

• Date: Monday, October 21, 2024
• Time: 9 PM EST
• Venue: State Farm Stadium, Glendale, AZ
• TV/Streaming: ESPN+

Fans won’t want to miss this exciting matchup, and for those interested in the complete NFL schedule, NBC Sports provides all the necessary information to keep up with every game this week.

Game Odds

As of the latest updates from DraftKings, the odds for the game are as follows:

• Moneyline: Los Angeles Chargers (-122), Arizona Cardinals (+102)
• Spread: Chargers -1.5
• Total: 44

The Chargers opened as 2.5-point favorites, indicating some market support for the underdog Cardinals. The total has remained steady at 44 points since opening.

Betting Insights

Best Bets from Experts

NBC Sports Betting Analyst Drew Dinsick sees value in the total points being scored, saying, “I think the Chargers’ offense is underrated against a weak Cardinals unit, and I see the Over 43.5 as a strong play.” His insights suggest that the anticipated offensive capability of the Chargers could lead to a higher-scoring game than initially projected.

Recent Trends

Examining recent trends, consider the following statistics:

• The Chargers are 4-1 ATS in their last five games as a road favorite.
• The Cardinals have lost seven of their last ten games.
• The UNDER has hit in 4 of the Chargers’ last 5 games.
• Kyler Murray has thrown for 1 or fewer TDs in 11 of his last 14 games.

Furthermore, rookie WR Marvin Harrison, Jr., who leads the Cardinals in receiving yards and touchdowns, is expected to play despite a recent concussion, providing a crucial advantage for Arizona.

Quarterback Matchup

The game’s quarterback duel will feature:

• Justin Herbert of the Chargers, who recently threw for 237 yards against the Broncos, marking the first time in five games he surpassed 180 yards.
• Kyler Murray of the Cardinals, who struggled against Green Bay last week, throwing for just 214 yards and rushing for a mere 14.

How these quarterbacks perform will heavily influence the game’s outcome.

Injury Updates

Injury reports can change the dynamics of any game, and there are a few key updates for both teams heading into Monday night:

• Los Angeles:

  • WR Ladd McConkey (hip) is questionable.
  • CB Deane Leonard (hamstring) is out.
  • TE Hayden Hurst (groin) is doubtful.
  • LB Joey Bosa (hip) is doubtful.
• Arizona:
  • LB Owen Pappoe (undisclosed) is out.
  • RB Trey Benson (illness) is questionable.
  • MLB Kyzir White (knee) is questionable.

Conclusion

As the Los Angeles Chargers prepare to face the Arizona Cardinals, the stakes are high for both teams. The Chargers are poised to ride their momentum, while the Cardinals will be desperate for a much-needed victory. The match promises to be a fascinating clash of styles, player matchups, and coaching strategies that could very well determine the trajectory of their respective seasons.

Bet responsibly, and enjoy what promises to be an exciting night of football in Glendale!