Raiders Defeat Chargers in NFL Showdown

What we said beforehand

The Los Angeles Chargers will host the Las Vegas Raiders at SoFi Stadium on September 20, 2026, in a matchup that promises to be pivotal for both teams early in the NFL season. The Chargers enter this game with a home record of 0-1, while the Raiders come in with a record of 1-0 after a strong performance in their opening game. This matchup is particularly interesting as it features two teams from the AFC West, a division known for its competitiveness.

The Chargers are currently on a three-game losing streak, having lost their last five games with a record of 2-3 in their last five outings. In their most recent game, they fell to the Arizona Cardinals with a score of 26-14. Over their last ten games, the Chargers have averaged 19.4 points scored per game while allowing 19.3 points. Their last five home games have seen them average 16.6 points scored and 19.0 points allowed. Key players for the Chargers include quarterback Justin Herbert, who has thrown for 209 yards, one touchdown, and one interception in his last outing, and running back Omarion Hampton, who rushed for 43 yards and one touchdown.

On the other hand, the Raiders are riding a two-game winning streak, having won their last game against the Miami Dolphins, 27-13. Their recent form shows a record of 2-3 in the last five games, with an average of 14.4 points scored and 22.6 points allowed. Quarterback Kirk Cousins has been a standout for the Raiders, throwing for 160 yards, three touchdowns, and two interceptions in their last game. Running back Ashton Jeanty has also made an impact, rushing for 102 yards and catching six passes for 45 yards and two touchdowns.

In terms of home versus away performance, the Chargers have a home record of 3-2 in their last ten games, while the Raiders have struggled on the road with an away record of 0-4. This could play a significant role in the outcome of the game, as the Chargers will be looking to capitalize on their home-field advantage.

Historically, the Chargers have had the upper hand in recent meetings, winning the last two encounters against the Raiders. In their last meeting on November 30, 2025, the Chargers defeated the Raiders 31-14, and they also won the previous matchup on September 16, 2025, with a score of 20-9. This trend could provide the Chargers with additional confidence heading into this game.

Injury concerns could also influence the game, as the Chargers will be missing several key players, including Deane Leonard (abdomen), Trey Pipkins III (knee), and Elijah Molden (hamstring), among others. The Raiders will also be without Tristin McCollum, JJ Pegues, and Darien Porter due to various reasons, which could impact their depth.

As for the betting market, DraftKings has set the Chargers as 6.5-point favorites with a moneyline of -325, while the Raiders are at +260. The total points for the game is set at 43.5, with both the over and under priced at -110.

Weather conditions for the game are expected to be mild, with a temperature of 77 degrees Fahrenheit and a 40% chance of precipitation, alongside gusts of wind reaching 16 mph. These conditions could play a role in the teams' offensive strategies.

Viewers should watch for how the Chargers' offense, led by Herbert, responds to the Raiders' defense, particularly given the Chargers' recent struggles. Additionally, the performance of the Raiders' running game, spearheaded by Jeanty, will be crucial in determining their success against the Chargers' defense. With both teams looking to establish their footing in the season, this matchup is certainly one to keep an eye on.