The first place San Diego Chargers will host the Kansas City Chiefs this week in a division showdown. KC enters Week 7 with a 2-3 record, while the Chargers continue to shine at 5-1. While San Diego is coming off a hard fought, and close, 31-28 victory against the 0-5 Oakland Raiders, the Chiefs are coming off the bye week eager to battle their division rival.
San Diego’s offense has come up clutch behind quarterback, Philip Rivers, who looks to have a career season. Last week, they were able to score quickly and seal their fifth consecutive win with an interception by rookie Jason Verrett. The Raiders almost pulled off the upset and gave the Chargers a run for their money; this week they return home looking to bounce back and maintain their lead in the tough AFC West.
For the Chiefs, they have had their share of ups and downs this year. Before entering the bye, KC lost a close one to the San Francisco 49ers. Their two wins have come against the Miami Dolphins and New England Patriots, both of which were high scoring games. The Chiefs were expected to show a lot of regression this year, but so far have shown competitiveness and will look to end the Chargers five game win streak.
Players to Watch
Philip Rivers, Quarterback, Chargers
Rivers is red hot right now. The Chargers quarterback has thrown for over 300 yards in two of their past three games, and has 15 touchdown passes on the season. KC has allowed 11 plays of 20-plus yards this year, which will play in Rivers favor. The Chiefs, however, are highly ranked in passing defense, but the Chargers are one of the best teams in the passing game this year; making this week’s matchup an entertaining one.
Malcom Floyd, Wide Receiver, Chargers
Last week the Bolts receiver had five receptions for 103 yards and a touchdown. Floyd also leads the league with an average of 21.3 yards per reception. He has become one of Rivers’ best threats downfield and is a big part of the Chargers success thus far this season.
Alex Smith, Quarterback, Chiefs
Smith has done a nice job under center this year, especially considering the majority of the Chiefs offensive line is completely different than it was last season. The 10-year vet has completed 63 percent of his passes for eight touchdowns and four interceptions. San Diego has a good defense, and will try to rattle Smith, but he is always looking to extend the play and execute on offense.
Jamaal Charles, Running back, Chiefs
Charles is only 53 yards shy of becoming the Chiefs all time leading rusher. He has 195 yards and one touchdown with 42 carries this season, and it looks likely that he will break the record this week. Charles is a key factor to the Chiefs offensive success, establishing a strong run game early is crucial for KC this week.
Final Prediction (Chiefs 24 Chargers 34)
The San Diego Chargers will get their sixth win in a row as they will outplay the Chiefs this week. KC has played well this year, but the Chargers are on a roll and will maintain their lead in the division by handing the Chiefs their fourth loss of the year.