With three games to go the Chargers lead the AFC West by two games and can win the NFL Picks West for the third time in the last four years if they beat the Detroit Lions in Week 15 combined with a Broncos loss at Houston. This week could be a bit tough for them as they will be without All-Pro linebacker Shawne Merriman who sprained a ligament in his left knee against the Titans. Although QB Philip Rivers continued to be inconsistent with just 37 yards passing and two interceptions through three quarters he did end strong finishing with 228 yards and two touchdowns. RB LaDainian Tomlinson seems to have hit his stride rushing for 146 yards and one score. He has now rushed for 323 yards and three touchdowns on 49 attempts in his last two games. The odds makers at WagerWeb.com seem to believe in the Chargers as they are a double digit -10 point favorite.
After opening the season winning six of their first eight games the Detroit Lions have now lost five in a row and now appear to continue their lack of making the playoffs. Detroit is one game in back of Minnesota for the NFC's final wild-card spot, and because of tiebreaker scenarios, is also behind three other teams with 6-7 records. Detroit's defensive play has been a factor in their losing streak as they have allowed an average of 430.7 yards and 35.7 points in its last three games. The Lions sport the second-worst defense in the league allowing 371.2 yards per game, and the third worst scoring defense allowing 26.1points per game.
San Diego has been tough at home this season as they are 5-1 SU & ATS on their home turf. They are also 6-1 SU & 5-2 ATS when hosting the NFC. The Lions are 2-4 SU & ATS on the road while yielding 31.8 points per game. In addition they are only 1-11 SU their L12 road games versus AFC opponents going 4-7-1 ATS in that span.
San Diego looks to have straighten their act out just in time for the post season and should handle the Lions.
Michael Alexander has been handicapping the NFL for over 20 years and is locked in on GUARANTEED selections for this week action. Visit Michael at Alexandersports for all of your winning action.
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