2021 NFL Betting and Fantasy Team Preview: Los Angeles Chargers
The Los Angeles Chargers parted ways with head coach Anthony Lynn following a disappointing 7-9 season that left L.A. third in the AFC West. It was Lynn’s second-consecutive losing season, and the Chargers have called upon former Los Angeles Rams defensive coordinator Brandon Stanley to take his place.
While the Chargers lost more than they won in 2020, the season had its bright spots, including the ascension of quarterback Justin Herbert. Herbert excelled in his first NFL start during Week 2 and only got better from there. His performances, which accumulated two rookie passing records (most passing touchdowns & most completions), earned him the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year and left Chargers fans with plenty of optimism.
With Herbert in his second year and formidable weapons at his disposal, the Chargers will once again be a fantasy-friendly team — that, however, doesn’t mean they’ll pose any threat to the Chiefs claim of the division.
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Los Angeles Chargers Team Betting Preview
Win Total (over):9.5 (110)
Games Favored:11
Games as a TD Favorite:0
Games as a TD Underdog:3
The Chargers will have to win 10 games to go over their projected win total 9.5 at sportsbooks. That’s a tall order.
Sure, Herbert has a year of experience under his belt, but regression could be in store, especially while learning a new system.
With this line opening at 9 and moving to 9.5 thanks to the popularity of the Rookie of the Year, I think there’s some value on the under.
PICK: Under 9.5 Wins
Los Angeles Chargers Team Projections Preview
Projected Offense Rank:12
Projected Rush Offense Rating: Weak
Projected Pass Offense Rating: Strong
Projected Points Earned:408.75 (Rank 14)
Rushing Opponents:
Projected Difficult Rush Defenses Faced:7
Projected Soft Rush Defenses Faced:5
Passing Opponents:
Projected Difficult Pass Defenses Faced:6
Projected Soft Pass Defenses Faced:7
Team Defense Rank:23
Projected Rush Defense Rating:Average
Projected Pass Defense Rating:Below Average
Projected Points Allowed:406.5 (Rank 16)
The Chargers upgraded their offensive line, which will only help the offense’s efficiency. As mentioned earlier, this will be a fantasy-friendly team, in part, due to new OC Joe Lombardi’s affinity for passing and up-tempo pace.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Chargers will get a boost thanks to the return of Derwin James, a playmaker in the secondary who provides much-needed help for pass-rusher Joey Bosa. If James can stay healthy, the defense will exceed expectations, though you may not see it based on their fantasy points allowed — defending Patrick Mahomes twice a year isn’t exactly helpful.
Los Angeles Chargers Fantasy Football Preview
Noteworthy Depth Chart
QB: Justin Herbert – Underdog Rank: QB8 (ADP QB7)
RB: Austin Ekeler – Underdog Rank: RB7 (ADP RB8)
RB: Joshua Kelley – Underdog Rank: RB59 (ADP RB70)
WR: Keenan Allen – Underdog Rank: WR8 (ADP WR9)
WR: Mike Williams – Underdog Rank: WR45 (ADP WR38)
WR: Josh Palmer – Underdog Rank: WR97 (ADP WR99)
TE: Jared Cook – Underdog Rank: TE14 (ADP TE21)
What’s New?: Coaching staff, including OC Joe Lombardi. The former New Orleans Saints QB coach will try to prevent a sophomore slump for Herbert. Whether or not Herbert can match his ridiculous rookie campaign, the second-year quarterback is a fantasy asset thanks to his composure, ability to extend plays, and dual-threat capability.
What’s Uncertain?: The Chargers turn to veteran Jared Cook at tight end but it’s unclear how valuable the 34-year-old will be in fantasy football. Does he still have the explosiveness to stretch the field and take advantage of an ideal situation in Los Angeles? He’ll have the opportunity to prove he’s worthy of something better than TE18-20, but whether he can capitalize is an entirely different question. This question mark should make Cook a viable contrarian piece in any early-season Chargers DFS stacks.
Top Fantasy Play(s): Austin Ekeler, Keenan Allen, Justin Herbert