Chargers vs. Jaguars matchups, how to enjoy and prediction

Breaking down how the Chargers (1-1) and the Jacksonville Jaguars (1-1) match up heading into their video game at 1:05 p.m. PDT Sunday at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood. The recreation will be shown on CBS and streamed on Paramount+ and NFL+.

When Chargers have the ball: The tenor of this block of textual content is totally dependent on the availability of Justin Herbert. The Chargers’ Professional Bowl quarterback is officially questionable mainly because of fractured rib cartilage. The Chargers went from 7-stage favorites Thursday to 3-point favorites Friday right after it was described that Herbert wasn’t throwing in exercise. The Chargers’ potential offensive problems are not confined to Herbert’s uncertain standing. Pro Bowl middle Corey Linsley (knee) is doubtful and Professional Bowl broad receiver Keenan Allen (hamstring) has a “50-50” likelihood staying prepared, coach Brandon Staley mentioned. Starting up suitable tackle Trey Pipkins III (foot) also is questionable. If Herbert cannot enjoy, veteran backup Chase Daniel will start out, Staley claimed. Whoever is at quarterback, the Chargers’ strategy probably will include things like an emphasis on shorter, faster passes. That method would limit Herbert’s vulnerability or choose gain of what Daniel very likely is likely to be most snug accomplishing. The Chargers also could try to turn to a jogging video game that has lacked regularity. They are tied for 28th in the league with a for each-sport tempo of 75.5 yards speeding and have averaged only 2.7 yards in 55 carries. A probable problem: Jacksonville’s front 7 is regarded a energy. The Jaguars rank third in dashing defense.

When Jaguars have the ball: When these teams most lately fulfilled — on Oct. 25, 2020 — Jacksonville’s quarterback was Gardner Minshew II. The Chargers opened an early 16- lead that day at SoFi Stadium, fell powering in the 3rd quarter and came back for a 39-29 acquire. That similar weekend, Trevor Lawrence threw for 289 yards and two touchdowns to lead Clemson to a acquire over Syracuse. On Sunday, Lawrence, the top general choose of the 2021 draft, will make his to start with visual appeal versus the Chargers. He threw for 510 yards and a few touchdowns with a person interception as the Jaguars split their two online games to open the period. “This guy was as excellent as it gets in school football,” Staley mentioned. “… I think that they have carried out a nice position of setting up the offense all around him.” Jacksonville’s record-environment offseason investing spree involved signing receiver Christian Kirk to a four-year deal well worth up to $72 million. The Jaguars also extra suitable guard Brandon Scherff, tight conclusion Evan Engram and huge receiver Zay Jones. Lawrence and the offense have not blossomed nevertheless, but most NFL observers agree Jacksonville is heading in the right direction after a time of turmoil.

When they kick: The Chargers’ Dustin Hopkins has made all six of his extra-position attempts and two of 3 subject-intention attempts. His overlook came from 49 yards versus Las Vegas in 7 days 1. Jacksonville’s kicker is Riley Patterson, who expended time with Detroit previous calendar year and is in his second NFL period. Patterson is four for four on more factors and 4 for five on discipline-aim attempts with a long of 52 yards.

Jeff Miller’s prediction: Even if Herbert does not enjoy, the Chargers seem to be the much better team. But don’t discounted the absence of Linsley, if he’s out. Depending on who plays, this surely could be a battle.

CHARGERS 20, JAGUARS 14