NFL Futures: It was an impressive first season for head coach Mike McCoy and the San Diego Chargers as they rallied with a four game winning streak at the end of the regular season to earn a playoff spot. San Diego suffered several close losses in 2013 that would have broken the spirit of many teams and deserves credit for fighting to the end. Now the question is if they are here to stay. The Chargers opened as a 40/1 choice to win the Super Bowl and were at 18/1 to win the AFC. San Diego had an over under win total of 8 -130 over and even money under.
Rivers Flows
QB Philip Rivers flourished under McCoy with 4478 yards passing and a 32/11 TD/INT ratio. The defense was inconsistent and ranked 29th against the pass.
Handicapper’s Notes
San Diego has paid out in 12 out of their last 19 away games with seven of their last nine away games going under the total. The Chargers have covered five of their last eight home games with four of their last six home games going under the total. San Diego has lost just three of their last 14 games as a dog with seven of their last 10 games as a dog going under the total. The Chargers have lost 12 of their last 20 ATS as a favorite with six of their last nine games as a chalk going under the total.
Our Prognosis
McCoy proved to be a significant upgrade from the bombing Norv Turner and Philips improvement is reflective of that. If San Diego can tighten up the defense they could be a dark horse in the AFC West!