Chargers vs. Rams preview, prediction and how to watch

The Los Angeles Chargers (0-6) face off against the Los Angeles Rams (3-4) in an upcoming NFL football game at SoFi Stadium, set for Sunday at 1:25 pm. Fox-11 in Los Angeles, FOX-5 in San Diego, and the Fox Sports app will broadcast the match, while KYSR-FM (98.7) in Los Angeles and Latino Mix 103.9/89.3 FM in San Diego will provide radio coverage. The Rams are favored to win by -6.5 points.

Several key injury concerns loom for both teams. For the Chargers, offensive line rookie Kayode Awosika (fibula), safety Derwin James Jr. (hamstring), wide receiver Brenen Thompson (quad), and cornerback Deane Leonard (concussion) are all out. Quarterback Justin Herbert's availability remains questionable due to a quad injury. On the Rams' side, left side Joe Cardona (ankle) is doubtful, while cornerback Trent McDuffie (groin) is listed as questionable.

The stakes for the Chargers are high, as they struggle with a lackluster offense averaging just 15 points per game this season, despite having quarterback Justin Herbert. Their defense has held its ground without safety Derwin James, who has missed numerous games due to a hamstring injury. The Rams, conversely, sit third in the NFC West and are closing in on the acquisition of star defensive end Myles Garrett. A win against the Chargers would bring them to .500.

The matchup between the Chargers' offensive line and the Rams' defensive line is expected to be a key focal point. With Joe Alt returning to the lineup, the Chargers' offensive line may see a much-needed boost, but the rest of the unit still requires additional support. Conversely, the Rams boast an elite defensive front seven, featuring stars Aaron Donald and Braden Fiske, who could pose significant challenges for the Chargers' offense.

If the Chargers are to emerge victorious, it remains uncertain, given their overall performance and an improbable upcoming schedule. Their path to a first win might involve facing the New York Jets, but the Chargers' current record does not inspire optimism. In fantasy football, Ladd McConkey, who returns from a concussion, is projected as a key target for quarterback Herbert and could deliver a strong performance. Rams are favored to win the game with a predicted score of 23-22.