The undefeated Los Angeles Chargers head to East Rutherford, New Jersey, to face the winless New York Giants on Sunday at MetLife Stadium in what could be another statement game for the Chargers.
With a fast start to the season, Los Angeles wants to assert itself as a real contender — and the Giants’ current state provides both opportunity and obligation.
For the Chargers, this game is not just about staying perfect but about affirming momentum in a comparatively easier matchup.
After battling through a tight 23-20 Week 3 win over Denver and sweeping their division to start the season, Los Angeles wants to prove that its offense and defense can deliver consistently, no matter how good or bad the competition.
For New York, the Giants will turn to a pair of new faces in key roles this week. On Tuesday, the team decided to bench Russell Wilson and hand the keys to first-round pick Jaxson Dart, who will be eager to spark the offense.
Rookie running back Cam Skattebo is also set to step in this week, taking over for second-year back Tyrone Tracy Jr., who is sidelined with a shoulder injury.
Skattebo made the most of his opportunity on Sunday Night Football against Kansas City, showing toughness between the tackles and surprising burst on the edge. He finished with 121 total yards and one rushing touchdown, fighting for extra yardage and giving the Giants some optimism that he can shoulder a bigger load.
For the New York offense, Skattebo’s ability to provide balance on the ground could be pivotal.
The Chargers’ defense must balance aggression with discipline to pressure Dart in his first start while avoiding overcommitment. Dart has shown he can be a dual-threat in preseason appearances, so the front seven will aim to win early one-on-one matchups, and the secondary must remain sharp should Dart escape the pocket.
The Giants’ defensive front, led by edge rushers Brian Burns, Kayvon Thibodeaux and first-round pick Abdul Carter, will undoubtedly dial up pressure in an attempt to force mistakes from Justin Herbert. The Chargers’ offensive line, even with right guard Mekhi Becton out, must protect and anchor. Quick decisions, efficient reads and a methodical attack will be crucial.
Los Angeles’ ground attack has yet to fully dominate, with rookie running back Omarion Hampton seeing a significantly increased role after the team lost Najee Harris to a season-ending Achilles injury in the Denver game last week. Establishing a credible running game on the road will help open up play-action and ease pressure on Herbert. Hampton could be in for a breakout game Sunday, as New York ranks 31st in the league against the run, allowing an average of 153.3 yards and five touchdowns per game.
The Chargers enter this matchup as clear favorites against a team undergoing change, but they could be surprised if they overlook the Giants.
If Los Angeles plays with poise, protects Herbert and keeps pressure on Dart without costly mistakes, this should be another road win.
Prediction: Chargers 31, Giants 17