Date: Saturday, August 16, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM ET
Location: SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, CA
TV: —
The battle for Los Angeles takes center stage in Week 2 of the preseason as the Rams and Chargers square off at SoFi Stadium. Both teams are focused on evaluating depth, with starters likely to see minimal action. The Rams are looking to build on an efficient Week 1 showing, while the Chargers aim to bounce back from a sluggish offensive performance.
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Matchup Overview
The Chargers enter as a 3.5-point favorite with the total set at 36.5. Expect Los Angeles to lean on Easton Stick and rookie QB Levi Lewis, while the Rams are likely to rotate Stetson Bennett and Dresser Winn for most of the night.
Los Angeles Rams
On offense, the Rams executed a balanced attack in their opener, with Bennett showing good command of the passing game and RB Ronnie Rivers providing steady production on the ground. Defensively, the Rams applied consistent pressure, forcing hurried throws and limiting big gains. Special teams were effective, highlighted by a long punt return that set up a short touchdown drive. The Rams are 4-1 ATS in their last five preseason games.
Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers’ offense struggled to sustain drives last week, though Stick’s mobility helped extend plays. Rookie RB Kimani Vidal brought burst to the ground game and will be a key factor in this matchup. Defensively, the Chargers showed strength in the trenches but gave up too many third-down conversions. Special teams coverage was sound, but the kicking game was shaky with one missed field goal. The Chargers are 5-2 ATS in their last seven preseason home contests.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Backup QBs and Game Management – Which signal-caller can avoid turnovers and control the tempo?
- RB Production – Rivers (Rams) vs. Vidal (Chargers) could decide field position battles.
- Third-Down Efficiency – Sustaining drives will be critical in a low-total game.
Betting Odds
- Spread: Chargers -3.5 / Rams +3.5
- Total (O/U): 36.5
- Moneyline: Chargers -165 / Rams +140
(Odds via ESPN BET at time of writing — subject to change)
Prediction
This matchup should be competitive throughout, but the Chargers’ defensive front and running game may prove decisive in the second half. The Rams’ QB play could keep it close, but small mistakes may tip the scales.
Projected Final Score:
Chargers 19 – Rams 16
- Total Points: 35 → ✅ Under 36.5
- Margin: 3 points → ✅ Rams cover +3.5
Best Bets
- Rams +3.5 (-110) – Expect a close game decided late.
- Under 36.5 (-110) – Both offenses are likely to be conservative with backups in.
- First Half Under 18 (-110) – Slow early pace should keep scoring down.
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