Chargers vs Rams Free Pick, NFL Free Pick, NFL Predictions 8/16/25
- J.A. Cavalier
- Aug 16
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 16
Chargers vs Rams Free Pick, NFL Free Pick, NFL Predictions 8/16/25
The annual "Battle for Los Angeles" is set to ignite SoFi Stadium this Saturday, August 16, 2025, at 7:00 PM ET, as the Los Angeles Chargers face off against the Los Angeles Rams. This preseason matchup offers a fascinating contrast in team philosophies, creating some compelling betting opportunities.
Key News & Strategic Approaches
The biggest storyline heading into this game revolves around player availability and coaching philosophies. For the Los Angeles Chargers, head coach Jim Harbaugh has made it clear that starting quarterback Justin Herbert will see action, marking his first preseason appearance since 2020. Beyond Herbert, the Chargers plan to play nearly their entire starting lineup, with the notable exceptions of Khalil Mack and Derwin James. This commitment to playing starters has already paid dividends, as the Chargers boast a perfect 2-0 preseason record, including a dominant 27-13 win over the New Orleans Saints last week. Quarterback Trey Lance has also impressed, leading the team in both passing (55 yards) and rushing (48 yards) in their last game. The Chargers are managing several injuries, with running back Najee Harris and offensive tackle Rashawn Slater among those out or on Injured Reserve.
On the other side, the Los Angeles Rams are taking a more cautious approach. Head coach Sean McVay has historically been hesitant to play key starters in the preseason, a trend that appears to continue this year. Starting quarterback Matthew Stafford is dealing with a lingering back injury and is questionable, with the team prioritizing his availability for Week 1. High-profile starters like Kyren Williams, Puka Nacua, and Davante Adams were absent from last week's box score and are not expected to play. Stetson Bennett IV led the Rams to a 31-21 victory over the Dallas Cowboys in their preseason opener, throwing for 188 yards and two touchdowns. However, the Rams will have their passing game coordinator and assistant head coach, Aubrey Pleasant, serving as acting head coach for this game, adding another layer to their strategy. The Rams also have defensive concerns with Jared Verse and Kobie Turner listed as questionable.
Looking at the preseason performance so far, both teams have shown offensive firepower. The Chargers have averaged 27.00 points per game and 399 total yards across their two preseason contests. Their rushing attack has been particularly effective, averaging 153.67 yards per game. The Rams, in their single preseason game, put up 31 points and demonstrated a strong ground game with 148.00 rushing yards.
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Moneyline Recommendation: Los Angeles Chargers (-300)
This is a strong pick considering the news that Justin Herbert and most of the Chargers' starters will be playing. In contrast, the Rams are resting their key players, including Matthew Stafford, and will be led by Stetson Bennett IV and an acting head coach. The Chargers' 2-0 preseason record and their commitment to winning these games further solidify this recommendation. While the odds are steep, the probability of a Chargers victory is high given the personnel differences.
Spread Recommendation: Los Angeles Chargers -7.0 (-110)
The Chargers' decision to play their starters gives them a significant advantage over a Rams team that will be relying on backups and players fighting for roster spots. The Chargers' previous 14-point win against the Saints in preseason demonstrates their capability to cover such a spread. With Herbert leading the offense and a motivated Chargers squad, they should be able to build a comfortable lead against a Rams team focused more on evaluation than victory.
Total Recommendation: OVER 39
Total Points Recommendation: Over 39.0 (-110)
The over/under for this game is set at 39.0 points with odds of -110 on BetMGM
Both teams have shown a propensity for high-scoring preseason games. The Chargers' last game saw 40 total points, and the Rams' opener against the Cowboys resulted in 52 total points. Even with the Rams resting starters, their offense managed to put up 31 points against the Cowboys, including 14 points in the first quarter. With Herbert leading the Chargers' offense for at least a portion of the game, and both teams demonstrating offensive capabilities, it's reasonable to expect a combined score exceeding 39 points.
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