NFL Week 16 Expert Picks: Can the Chargers Overcome Their Struggles?

As the NFL season enters Week 16, a fierce competition unfolds among analysts as they strive to finalize their picks against the spread. After a challenging prior week where their "lone-wolf" selections went 0-4, the experts regroup and prepare for the final stretch of the regular season. With injuries and quarterback changes weighing down team performances, this week promises excitement.

The Bleacher Report expert panel, featuring recognized analysts like Brad Gagnon, Gary Davenport, and Maurice Moton, has analyzed the situation thoroughly and made their predictions for the important matchups.

Highlights of This Week’s Predictions

1. **Los Angeles Chargers vs. Denver Broncos** - **DraftKings Line:** Denver -3 - The Chargers are grappling with injuries, including quarterback Justin Herbert and a depleted offensive lineup after a poor showing against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Broncos are riding high on a four-game winning streak and are expected to dominate this matchup, with experts unanimously backing them. Gagnon describes the Chargers as playoff pretenders, stating, "The Broncos are simply the better all-around team." **Predictions:** Broncos 23, Chargers 19

2. **Kansas City Chiefs vs. Houston Texans** - **DraftKings Line:** Kansas City -3 - Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes is dealing with a mild ankle sprain, leading to questions about his availability. Analysts still favor Kansas City based on their pursuit of the AFC's No. 1 seed, with Henderson emphasizing, "I won't pass on the Chiefs as underdogs again." **Predictions:** Chiefs 24, Texans 20

3. **Baltimore Ravens vs. Pittsburgh Steelers** - **DraftKings Line:** Baltimore -6.5 - The AFC North rivals present a dramatic matchup, but the potential absence of key players like George Pickens could impact the outcome. Experts are split, but many lean towards Pittsburgh's ability to keep the score close. **Predictions:** Ravens 24, Steelers 21

4. **Buffalo Bills vs. New England Patriots** - **DraftKings Line:** Buffalo -14 - The Bills have been on an offensive tear, averaging over 30 points in recent games. Despite the cold conditions, the expectation is for Buffalo to handle the Patriots comfortably, although some analysts caution about underestimating the New England side. **Predictions:** Bills 31, Patriots 14

5. **Cincinnati Bengals vs. Cleveland Browns** - **DraftKings Line:** Cincinnati -7 - With the Browns starting Dorian Thompson-Robinson, the Bengals are heavily favored. Analysts express disbelief over the Browns' decision-making, with Davenport humorously highlighting Thompson-Robinson's record and the dire situation in Cleveland. **Predictions:** Bengals 30, Browns 13

6. **Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Dallas Cowboys** - **DraftKings Line:** Tampa Bay -4 - This Sunday night clash showcases two high-powered offenses. Although the Cowboys have struggled at home, they are finding momentum. However, analysts expect Tampa Bay to pull away, leveraging their improved run game against a struggling Dallas defense. **Predictions:** Buccaneers 31, Cowboys 23

### Conclusion As the NFL season nears its finale, analysts are intrigued by the tight races and significant matchups that could determine playoff fates. Can the Chargers bounce back? Will Mahomes' absence be costly for the Chiefs? With so much on the line, the picks made in Week 16 will be pivotal for playoff scenarios. Stay tuned for updates, and may your fantasy roster thrive as we approach the resolution of another gripping NFL season!