The Los Angeles Chargers are taking a different approach. They began with a 27-7 triumph over Houston, but then were defeated 41-17 by San Francisco. Head coach Jim Harbaugh plans to give his starting offense another brief tune-up before Week 1.
Kickoff for the preseason finale is scheduled for 10 p.m. ET (7 p.m. PT) on Thursday, Aug. 27, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. The game will be broadcast nationally on NFL Network and will stream on NFL+, subject to local blackout restrictions.
Locally in Los Angeles, Rams fans can watch on KCAL, while the Chargers’ home channel is CBS2 LA. Rams radio coverage is available on ESPN LA 710 AM, with additional local and Spanish-language options listed in the Rams’ official game guide.
As of the latest available figures, the Chargers were favored by 3.5 points, with the moneyline at -181 for the Chargers and +150 for the Rams. The over/under was set at 38.5 points, though these numbers can shift before kickoff.
Part of the spread reflects Harbaugh’s plan for Justin Herbert, who is expected to start and play roughly six to nine plays for the first-team offense. The goal is a cleaner, more efficient opening series after a three-and-out against San Francisco. After those early plays, the Chargers will hand the reins to reserves, where Trey Lance and Uiagalelei have been competing behind Herbert.
Key players to watch for the Rams include quarterback Ty Simpson, who has shown strong accuracy and efficiency in the preseason. Through two appearances, Simpson has completed 29 of 37 passes for 263 yards and two touchdowns, posting a 114.3 passer rating. Rams coach McVay has signaled that Simpson will see significant action against the Chargers as the team continues to evaluate its quarterback rotation behind Matthew Stafford.
The Rams have also received steady production from Jarquez Hunter, who has rushed for 103 yards and a touchdown on 21 carries. Defensively, Los Angeles has been stout, limiting Kansas City to 12 points before shutting out New Orleans.
Prediction: The Rams can capitalize on depth and quarterback efficiency as the Chargers’ early advantage may dissipate once the reserves enter. Historically, McVay has rested his starters in August, yet the Rams have won both of their preseason games by a comfortable margin. If Herbert leads an early scoring drive, the over/under could come into play, but with rotating quarterbacks, that market can be unpredictable.
Final call: Rams 24, Chargers 20.
Best bet: Rams +3.5.
Notes:
– Coverage and viewing options are subject to local blackout rules.
– Always check the latest official team guides and network listings for any schedule changes or regional broadcast details.
