Los Angeles Chargers at Las Vegas Raiders Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 1/5/2025 4:25 PM EST

We have your Los Angeles Chargers at Las Vegas Raiders prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Los Angeles Chargers hit the road to face the Las Vegas Raiders.

Los Angeles Chargers at Las Vegas Raiders Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: Los Angeles Chargers -200 (Caesars) / Las Vegas Raiders +180 (BetMGM)
Best Spread Odds: 4.0 - Los Angeles Chargers -110 (ESPN BET) / 4.5 - Las Vegas Raiders -110 (FanDuel)
Best Total Odds: 41.5 - Under -110 (ESPN BET) / Over -110 (BetMGM)

Game Info

Date: 1/5/2025
Time: 4:25 PM EST
Location: Allegiant Stadium (Las Vegas, NV)
TV: CBS

Historic Head-to-Head Stats and Analysis

Over the past two seasons, the Los Angeles Chargers and the Las Vegas Raiders have faced each other three times. The Chargers have emerged victorious in two of these encounters, while the Raiders have won once. Notably, all three games were won by the home team, with the visiting team failing to secure a victory. In terms of betting outcomes, the Chargers have covered the spread twice, whereas the Raiders have done so once. The games have seen a mix of scoring outcomes, with the total score going over the set line once and staying under twice. These matchups have highlighted the Chargers' ability to capitalize on home-field advantage, while the Raiders have struggled on the road against their division rivals.

The most recent game between these two teams took place on September 8, 2024, with the Chargers defeating the Raiders 22-10. The Chargers were favored with a closing spread of -3.0 and successfully covered the spread. The game total fell under the closing over-under line of 40.0. Key plays included a 53-yard field goal by Cameron Dicker and a 31-yard touchdown pass from Gardner Minshew to Alexander Mattison, which initially gave the Raiders a 7-3 lead. However, the Chargers responded with a series of field goals and a 12-yard rushing touchdown by J.K. Dobbins. Justin Herbert's 10-yard touchdown pass to Ladd McConkey in the fourth quarter sealed the victory for the Chargers. The Raiders' performance was marred by three turnovers, including two fumbles and an interception, which significantly impacted their ability to compete.

In terms of team statistics, the Chargers recorded 316 total yards, with a strong emphasis on their rushing game, accumulating 176 yards on 27 attempts. The Raiders, on the other hand, managed 296 total yards, with only 71 rushing yards on 22 attempts. The Chargers' defense was effective, recording four sacks and forcing three turnovers, which played a crucial role in their victory. The Raiders' defense also managed to sack Herbert once but failed to create any turnovers. Penalties were relatively low for both teams, with the Raiders committing two for 15 yards and the Chargers seven for 50 yards. Overall, the Chargers' balanced offensive attack and opportunistic defense were key factors in their win over the Raiders.

Los Angeles Chargers at Las Vegas Raiders Preview

The Los Angeles Chargers and Las Vegas Raiders are set to clash in a pivotal Week 18 matchup at Allegiant Stadium, with both teams entering the game on contrasting trajectories. The Chargers, under the guidance of first-year head coach Jim Harbaugh, have already secured a playoff berth with a 10-6 record. They are vying for a higher seed in the postseason, potentially moving up to the No. 5 seed with a win and a Pittsburgh Steelers loss. The Chargers boast the league's best defense, allowing an average of just 17.6 points per game, a testament to the transformative impact of defensive coordinator Jesse Minter.

On the other hand, the Raiders, sitting at 4-12, have endured a challenging season marked by a 10-game losing streak. However, they have shown resilience with back-to-back victories, led by standout performances from defensive end Maxx Crosby and rookie tight end Brock Bowers. Bowers, a Pro Bowl selection, has set NFL records for receptions and receiving yards by a rookie tight end, making him a bright spot in an otherwise difficult season for Las Vegas.

Despite their recent success, the Raiders' draft prospects have been affected by their late-season wins, potentially complicating their pursuit of a franchise quarterback in the upcoming draft. Head coach Antonio Pierce has instilled a winning mentality in his squad, emphasizing the importance of finishing the season strong. Quarterback Aidan O'Connell, who has shown flashes of potential, will have one last opportunity to prove his worth as a starter for next season.

The Chargers, led by quarterback Justin Herbert, have been firing on all cylinders offensively, scoring 61 points since halftime of their win over Denver. Herbert's connection with his receivers and the return of running back J.K. Dobbins, who rushed for 135 yards in their first meeting against the Raiders, will be crucial in maintaining their offensive momentum. The Chargers' defense, despite injuries, remains formidable, with a focus on containing the Raiders' offensive threats.

As the Chargers aim to solidify their playoff positioning, the Raiders will look to play spoiler and end their season on a high note. The game promises to be a compelling contest between two AFC West rivals, each with their own motivations and stakes on the line.

Los Angeles Chargers at Las Vegas Raiders Pick: Los Angeles Chargers Against the Spread

The Los Angeles Chargers are poised to cover the spread against the Las Vegas Raiders in their Week 18 matchup. The Chargers, with a 10-6 record, have demonstrated their prowess on both sides of the ball, particularly with their league-leading defense that allows just 17.6 points per game. This defensive strength, orchestrated by first-year defensive coordinator Jesse Minter, has been a cornerstone of their success and is a significant factor in their ability to control games.

Offensively, the Chargers have been in excellent form, scoring 61 points since halftime of their victory over Denver. Quarterback Justin Herbert has been instrumental in this offensive surge, showcasing his ability to connect with his receivers and maintain a balanced attack. The return of running back J.K. Dobbins, who rushed for 135 yards in their previous encounter with the Raiders, adds another dimension to their offense, making them a formidable opponent.

In contrast, the Raiders, despite their recent two-game winning streak, have struggled throughout the season, sitting at 4-12. Their defense, while showing improvement in recent weeks, has been inconsistent, and their offense has been plagued by turnovers, as evidenced in their last meeting with the Chargers where they committed three turnovers. The Raiders' late-season victories have also complicated their draft prospects, potentially affecting their long-term strategy.

Given the Chargers' superior defensive capabilities, their recent offensive momentum, and the Raiders' ongoing challenges, the Chargers are well-positioned to cover the spread. With playoff seeding implications on the line, expect the Chargers to maintain their focus and execute their game plan effectively, securing a victory and covering the spread against their AFC West rivals.

Los Angeles Chargers at Las Vegas Raiders Top Player Prop Picks

Brock Bowers Over 78.5 Receiving Yards -110 (bet365)

Brock Bowers has been a standout performer for the Las Vegas Raiders, setting NFL records for receptions and receiving yards by a rookie tight end. With 1,144 receiving yards this season, Bowers has consistently been a key target in the Raiders' offense. His ability to make big plays and his recent Pro Bowl selection highlight his impact on the field. Given the Chargers' focus on maintaining their top-ranked defense, Bowers will be crucial in the Raiders' attempt to challenge this formidable unit. With the Raiders looking to end their season on a high note, expect Bowers to be heavily involved in the passing game, making the over on his receiving yards a strong play.

Aidan O'Connell Under 226.5 Passing Yards -110 (bet365)

Aidan O'Connell has shown potential as the Raiders' quarterback, but he faces a daunting task against the Chargers' league-leading defense, which allows just 17.6 points per game. The Chargers' defensive coordinator, Jesse Minter, has transformed the unit into a formidable force, and their ability to pressure quarterbacks and force turnovers has been a key factor in their success. In their previous matchup, the Raiders struggled offensively, managing only 296 total yards, with O'Connell facing significant pressure. Given the Chargers' defensive prowess and the Raiders' offensive inconsistencies, the under on O'Connell's passing yards is a prudent choice.

Brock Bowers Over 7.5 Receptions -115 (DraftKings)

Brock Bowers has been a reliable target for the Raiders, leading all tight ends in receptions with 108 this season. His ability to consistently get open and make catches has been a bright spot for the Raiders' offense. With the Chargers' defense likely focusing on limiting big plays, Bowers' role as a possession receiver becomes even more critical. The Raiders will likely rely on short and intermediate passes to move the chains, providing Bowers with ample opportunities to rack up receptions. Given his track record and the Raiders' need to exploit their most reliable offensive weapon, the over on Bowers' receptions is a compelling bet.