PATRIOTS @ CHARGERS
Tim Lee
In one of the games of the round in week 14, the New England Patriots (9-3) will be travelling to Qualcomm Stadium to take on the San Diego Chargers (8-4). Following a loss to the Green Bay Packers in Week 13, it’s crucial for the New England Patriots to come out of week 14 with a win on their path to securing the top seed in the AFC as well as home ground advantage. However, the same can be said for the San Diego Chargers in their push for the playoffs, after a nail-biting win against the Baltimore Ravens, 34-33. It is very safe to say that this is a must win game for both teams.
The Patriots offense has been on point this season. Led by arguably the best quarterback in the NFL, Tom Brady (pictured right), the Patriots have averaged 31.5 points this season which is 3rd in the NFL. He has amassed 3243 yards to date this season with a sensational QBR of 101.1. Last week, the Patriots lost to a better team on the day despite 2 TD passes by Brady accompanied by a rushing TD by Brandon Bolden. They come up against a Charger defense who are 7th when it comes to defending the pass, allowing only 221.6 yards this season. This gives Coach Mike McCoy some confidence in stopping Tom Brady and the New England offense.
This season, the San Diego Chargers offense has been ordinary averaging 23.2 points(14th in the NFL). Last week, the Charger offense did its job despite a very close win. Philip Rivers threw for 383 yard and an impressive 3 TD passes. Ryan Mathews continued his comeback from injury with a rushing TD himself. The Patriots defense on the other hand has been fairly mediocre, averaging 360.9 yards (250.9 yards passing) which is an upside to the pass heavy charger offense led by Philip Rivers.
Two top-level quarterbacks in the NFL face off this week and this game will be more about offense than anything else. What an exciting game this will be for Sunday Night Football as both teams desperately need a win in their respective races to the playoffs.
NEW ENGLAND by 7.