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Game Preview Dallas Cowboys @ Los Angeles Chargers
The Dallas Cowboys travel west to face the Los Angeles Chargers in a Week 16 interconference matchup that carries playoff implications for both teams. Dallas is locked in a battle for the NFC East and seeding, while the Chargers remain in the thick of the AFC Wild Card race.
This game features two high-powered offenses, aggressive playcalling, and quarterbacks capable of turning the tide on any snap. The contrast in defensive consistency could be the deciding factor, as the Cowboys bring one of the top pass rushes in football.
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Odds and Key Information
- Spread: Cowboys -4
- Total: 48.5
- Moneyline: Cowboys -180, Chargers +155
- Kickoff: 8:20 PM ET (Primetime)
- Venue: SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, CA
The Cowboys opened as road favorites. The total is among the highest on the Week 16 slate, reflecting the offensive firepower on both sides. For updated movement and expert projections, visit the NFL betting guide.
Dallas Cowboys Outlook
The Dallas Cowboys are 10-4 and enter this matchup on a strong run. Dak Prescott is having one of the best statistical seasons of his career, spreading the ball efficiently while limiting turnovers. CeeDee Lamb and Brandin Cooks have both emerged as explosive threats, and tight end Jake Ferguson continues to develop as a reliable red zone target.
On defense, Dallas ranks top five in pressure rate and leads the league in defensive touchdowns. Micah Parsons is the centerpiece of a unit that excels in forcing turnovers and collapsing pockets, though they’ve been slightly more vulnerable against the run.
Dallas is 4-3 on the road ATS this season and 6-2 ATS when scoring 27+ points. More weekly performance insights can be found in the NFL picks section.
Los Angeles Chargers Outlook
The Los Angeles Chargers are 7-7 and face a must-win situation to keep playoff hopes alive. Justin Herbert leads an offense that ranks top 10 in passing yards per game, but protection has been a challenge behind a banged-up offensive line.
Keenan Allen and Quentin Johnston form the primary receiving duo, and running back Austin Ekeler continues to serve as a versatile option in both the run and pass game. However, the offense has struggled in the red zone, converting just 51% of trips into touchdowns.
Defensively, the Chargers remain inconsistent. While they boast a strong pass rush led by Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack, they rank in the bottom third in total defense and allow over 24 points per game. For more on their postseason scenario, visit the NFL playoff blog.
Key Matchup Table
| Key Matchup | Edge |
|---|---|
| Quarterback Play | Cowboys |
| Pass Rush | Cowboys |
| Offensive Line Play | Cowboys |
| Red Zone Offense | Cowboys |
| Explosive Play Potential | Chargers |
Betting Trends
The Dallas Cowboys are 6-2 ATS in their last eight games and 4-1 ATS in their last five primetime appearances. The over has hit in five of their last seven games.
The Los Angeles Chargers are 2-4 ATS in their last six home games and just 1-5 ATS against teams with a winning record. The over is 4-2 in their last six overall.
For additional spread and total trends, review the full NFL Week 16 predictions blog.
Prediction
Dallas holds the edge in most categories, especially in the trenches. Their ability to pressure Herbert will be critical, as the Chargers’ offense struggles when forced off script. If Prescott protects the football and the defense creates short fields, Dallas could pull away late.
Expect the Chargers to keep it close in the first half, but Dallas’ pass rush and red zone advantage should ultimately lead to a comfortable win.
Projected Score: Cowboys 30, Chargers 23
Spread Pick: Cowboys -4
Total Lean: Over 48.5
Primetime matchups like this are also covered in our Sunday Night Football predictions.
Why You Need Expert Picks
High-profile games like Cowboys vs Chargers attract public money, but smart bettors look for sharp angles. The NFL picks hub offers expert selections, consensus picks, and prop insights.
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