NFL Week 7 – Chargers Hope to Stay Hot Against Chiefs

Kansas City Chiefs at San Diego Chargers (-4, 45 o/u)

After the team’s solid start, the San Diego Chargers (5-1, 3-0 home) are no longer the secret of the NFL.

“What it says is that we’ve had a great five-game stretch,” said Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers. “It doesn’t say anymore than that but I think it speaks to the guys catching the football, the guys protecting and the whole group.”

Right now that group includes running back Branden Oliver. The undrafted free agent, who is replacing the injured Ryan Matthews, racked up 215 yards in his last two games.

Oliver said, “I’m the type of guy that, if you keep giving me the ball, I feel like I get stronger as the game goes.”

Injuries could have an effect on the Chargers this week, as they may be without wide receiver Eddie Royal (ribs) and cornerback Brandon Flowers (groin). The latter was released by the Chiefs in June .

Flowers said, “I definitely want to play. You’d best believe that if there’s any chance I can play, I’ll be out there.”

On paper, this week’s game against the Kansas City Chiefs (2-3, 1-2 away) may not appear to be a tough challenge, but don’t underestimate head coach Andy Reid coming off of a bye week. Prior to last season, Reid had won 13 straight post-bye week games. He knows how to use the extra time off.

“Listen, I’ve done it this way for a long time and it’s been fairly successful,” Reid said. “Sometimes I think it’s good to step away whether you’re doing well or not doing well. Coming off a win or a loss I think sometimes it’s good to get away and get recharged.”

While there may be some temptation to take the Chiefs and the points, the smarter play is going with the over at 45.