The battle for Los Angeles is set for this weekend as the Los Angeles Chargers take on the Los Angeles Rams in Week 2 of the NFL preseason. Both teams will meet at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, with kickoff scheduled for 7:00 PM EDT on Friday, August 16, 2025.
While it’s still preseason, there’s plenty of intrigue surrounding this matchup — from roster battles to early-season form. Oddsmakers have already weighed in, and the Chargers head into this contest as clear betting favorites.
Current Betting Lines
- Point Spread: Chargers -6.5 (-110)
- Over/Under (Total Points): 39.5
According to the latest odds, the Chargers are expected to control the game, with a spread of -6.5 points. This means bookmakers anticipate Los Angeles’ “lightning bolts” to win by at least a touchdown. The total points line is set at 39.5, giving bettors the choice to wager on whether both teams will combine for more (Over) or fewer (Under) points than that total.
Team Form Heading Into Week 2
The Chargers are off to a hot start in the preseason with a 2-0 record, showing promising signs in all phases of the game. Preseason wins may not always tell the full story, but the Chargers’ depth players and young talents have been making strong impressions.
On the other side, the Rams are 1-0 after their opening preseason win. With head coach Sean McVay typically cautious about playing starters extensively in August, expect another game where backups and emerging players have significant opportunities to shine. However, the Rams have a history of finding hidden gems during these trial runs.
Key Storylines to Watch
- Quarterback Rotations – While Matthew Stafford remains the Rams’ starter, it’s unlikely he’ll see heavy action. The focus will be on depth chart battles, particularly at backup QB. For the Chargers, expect similar rotation plans, giving rookies and second-string players valuable snaps.
- Rookie Standouts – Preseason is a proving ground for first-year players, and both franchises have draft picks looking to earn roster spots.
- Local Rivalry Factor – Even though it’s just preseason, there’s always a little extra motivation when these two LA teams share the same stadium.
Best Prop Bets to Consider
While the official player prop lines will be released closer to game time, common preseason prop bet angles include:
- First Team to Score – Chargers have started fast in recent games.
- Total Field Goals Made – Preseason often leads to more conservative red-zone play-calling.
- Player Touchdown Scorer – Look for fringe roster players who may get extended goal-line chances.
Prediction
Given the Chargers’ current preseason momentum and deeper rotations showing strong form, they look well-positioned to cover the -6.5 spread. That said, the Over/Under at 39.5 feels tricky — especially with both coaches unlikely to keep starters in long. Slight lean toward the Under in what could be a defensive-heavy contest once the reserves take over.
Predicted Score: Chargers 23 – Rams 13