The Los Angeles Chargers couldn't ask for a better start than they have gotten off to, and a win over the Denver Broncos this Sunday would put them at 3-0 with all three of those victories coming against AFC West teams. That would officially make the Chargers the team to beat in the division this season.
The Broncos should also be 2-0, but a horrible penalty on the last play of the game in Week 2 allowed the Indianapolis Colts to win it on an untimed down. That sets the stage for Sunday, which gives the Chargers a chance to deal the Broncos a harsh early-season blow.
The Chargers swept the Broncos last season. Can they keep the momentum going against them? Here's what the experts think.
Los Angeles Chargers vs. Denver Broncos Week 3 expert picks
Sam Farmer, Los Angeles Times: Chargers 30, Broncos 24
"The Chargers are putting together complete games, and Monday was a defensive masterpiece. They have a chance to go 3-0 vs. the AFC West and still have another game in September."
Pete Prisco, CBS Sports: Chargers 23, Broncos 17
"The Chargers can really take an early hold of the division with a win here. They are playing great defense and Justin Herbert is playing well on offense. The Denver defense struggled last week against the Colts and now the Broncos are on the road again. The Chargers win it."
Vinnie Iyer, The Sporting News: Chargers 23, Broncos 20
"The Los Angeles Chargers will take advantage of the Broncos' sudden major defensive issues against the run to set up Justin Herbert for another clutch game to outduel a struggling Bo Nix. Jim Harbaugh scores another big win against a top coaching counterpart in the division to make L.A. the new team to beat in the AFC West."
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Bill Bender, The Sporting News: Chargers 21, Broncos 18
"The Chargers are coming off a short week, and the Broncos missed an opportunity at Indianapolis. Los Angeles beat Denver in a pair of one-score games last year. Justin Herbert averaged 260.5 yards with three TDs and one interception in those two games. Los Angeles is 5-1 ATS as a home favorite under Jim Harbaugh."
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