The Jacksonville Jaguars ended the regular season on a five-game winning streak to win the AFC South on the final game of the season, over the Tennessee Titans. They finished with a 9-8 record.
After going 3-14 in his rookie season, Trevor Lawrence has really got going in the second half of the season under Doug Pederson.
The LA Chargers had been on a 4-game winning streak and confirmed their playoff spot with a game to spare as AFC West runners-up to the Kansas City Chiefs. With nothing to play for in week 18 they started their stars, saw Receiver Mike Williams injured and lost 28-31 to the Denver Broncos. Not the best way to enter the post-season.
During a 2-6 start to the season one of those wins came 38-10 versus the Chargers and at their SoFi Stadium. Though it’s worth remembering that Justin Herbert wasn’t 100% for that game.
The young Quarterback found his form before the end of the season and has a bunch of talented receivers if Mike Williams is fit. Keenan Allen returned during the run in and Josh Palmer had been having a solid season in his absence. Running back Austin Ekeler even caught 107 passes with a 6.7 yard average.
Jacksonville will have their work cut out against the passing game, especially after giving up 40 points to Detroit in week 13 on December 4.
The LA Chargers are in the same position as Trevor Lawrence is in the best form of his professional career. Christian Kirk has a knack of getting open and is very quick. Zay Jones, Marvin Jones and Tight End Evan Engram have all had productive seasons too, whilst elusive Running Backs Travis Etienne and JaMycal Hasty are threats in the passing game too.
Los Angeles gave up 31 points versus a woeful Denver offence in week 18 and in truth, they haven’t really faced a good passing attack for over a month. Whilst they have Joey Bosa, Khalil Mack and Drue Tranquill providing quarterback pressures they don’t have the best pass coverage. Though safety Derwin James Jr is excellent in his position.
What is the Chargers @ Jaguars money line?
The LA Chargers have been made the early 5/6 favourites compared to Jaguars being given 1/1 odds. This is the closest wildcard matchup according to the sportsbooks. LA are 0.5 point favourites.
Chargers @ Jaguars pick
Jacksonville come into the playoffs on hot form whilst LA have been helped out by having a favourable schedule in the final weeks. The latter didn’t overly impress in many games whilst the AFC South winners have shown they can pass their way down the field at will.
Pick: Jacksonville Jaguars +0.5
