San Diego Chargers vs. Oakland Raiders: Spread Info, Line and Predictions

In Week 17 of the regular season, the Oakland Raiders’ will and the San Diego Chargers’ heart will be on full display.  Oakland can earn a playoff berth with a win and some help, but they don’t need that much help.  Taking out the Chargers is their greatest obstacle and, even with the fiery Philip Rivers leading the way, San Diego may not have enough fuel to finish strong with the offseason in sight.

Where: Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum, Oakland, CA

When: Sunday, Jan. 1 at 4:15 p.m. EST

Watch: CBS

Spread: Oakland by -3, according to Accuscore.com.

Oakland defeated the Chargers 24-17 in San Diego back in Week 10 in a game that actually meant something to Rivers and company.  In their house, with their backs against the wall, I’d bet on the Raiders covering the spread.  Half of the Chargers' players already have their winter vacations scheduled.

Over/Under: 49 according to Accuscore.com.

San Diego averages 24.5 points per game and surrenders 23.5, while the Raiders put up 22.2 a game and give up 26.2.  According to ESPN, it’s supposed to be 60 degrees and sunny, so cold weather won’t hold either team back from putting up points.  What I’d be worried about are injuries to each teams’ top offensive weapons.

Considering the fact that last week the Chargers only scored 10 points and the Raiders 16, "under" would be the safest way to go.



Key Injuries

According to USA Today, San Diego running backs Ryan Matthews and Michael Tolbert missed practice this week and are probable for Sunday’s game.  While both of the Chargers' backs won’t be at 100 percent, they will also most likely be without their star wide receiver altogether as Vincent Jackson is doubtful with a groin injury.

For the Raiders, Darren McFadden has been labeled doubtful and h...