Chargers vs. Cardinals: A Week 7 MNF Showdown
The seventh week of the National Football League (NFL) season is gearing up to give football fans the usual enthralling Week 7 Monday Night Football (MNF), which will see the Los Angeles Chargers go up against the Arizona Cardinals. The game is set for 9 p.m. ET at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.
In this intriguing NFC West vs. AFC West matchup, fans will get to watch two of the league’s brightest stars: Justin Herbert, the 2020 Offensive Rookie of the Year, and Kyler Murray, who is known for his dynamic run-pass dual-threat quarterback abilities. This game promises to be a cracker as both sides aim to build momentum as the season nears the halfway mark.
Where to Watch Chargers vs. Cardinals
- Date: Monday, October 21
- Time: 9 p.m. ET
- Location: State Farm Stadium, Glendale, Arizona
- Live Stream: ESPN+
- Follow: CBS Sports App
- Odds: Chargers -1.5, O/U 44 (BetMGM Sportsbook)
Chargers’ Ground Game and Clock Control
The Chargers enter Week 7 with a 3-2 record following a tight victory over the Denver Broncos (23-16). Their strategy this season has been to control the clock by grinding out the game on the ground, keeping opposing defenses on the field. Currently ranked 11th in rushing offense (averaging 127.8 rushing yards per game), they will aim to minimize the time the Cardinals spend on offense.
A key player to watch is J.K. Dobbins, who has been instrumental in the Chargers’ success. Dobbins has 438 rushing yards, the most by a Charger in the first five games of a season since LaDainian Tomlinson in 2005. Last week, he recorded a season-high 25 rushing attempts against Denver and will look to repeat that performance against Arizona’s weak rush defense.
The Chargers also take the longest time for an average play on offense in the NFL, clocking in at 32.7 seconds per play. This allows them to control the game’s tempo effectively, especially against Arizona, which ranks last in third-down defense, allowing opponents to convert nearly 50% of their attempts.
Can the Cardinals’ Defense Hold Up?
Arizona’s defense has been struggling, giving up an average of 153 rushing yards per game, ranking 29th in the NFL. To stay competitive, they’ll need to find a way to slow down Dobbins and the Chargers’ rushing attack, particularly on third down. If they can’t, the Chargers will likely dominate the time of possession, keeping Kyler Murray and the Arizona offense on the sidelines.
The Cardinals enter this game with a 2-4 record after a 34-21 loss to the Green Bay Packers in Week 6. Defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon will need to adjust his defense to slow down opposing offenses, and this Monday night matchup presents the perfect stage to show improvement.
Kyler Murray: Arizona’s Offensive X-Factor
Arizona’s success will rely on quarterback Kyler Murray. Known for his speed, agility, and quick decision-making, Murray can be a game-changer when he uses his legs effectively. However, in the last two games, he has rushed for fewer than 15 yards, limiting his impact.
The Cardinals have proven more successful when Murray can contribute as a runner. In their two wins this season, he rushed for 83 yards and 59 yards, including a rushing touchdown. For Arizona to upset the Chargers, Murray must use his mobility to convert critical third downs and potentially score rushing touchdowns.
Another key player for Arizona is tight end Trey McBride, who caught all eight of his targets for 96 yards last week. With wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. back from concussion protocol, McBride will play a pivotal role in the Cardinals’ passing game.
Key Factors to Watch
- Chargers’ Running Game: Will the Chargers dominate on the ground and control the clock, keeping Arizona’s offense off the field?
- Kyler Murray’s Mobility: Can Murray use his legs to create big plays and keep the game close?
- Third-Down Efficiency: The Chargers have been solid on third down, while Arizona has struggled. The outcome of this game may hinge on how well the Cardinals can defend on third down.
- Coaching Matchup: Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh is 6-0 on Monday Night Football, while Murray has a 3-6 record on MNF. Can Harbaugh’s experience deliver another MNF win, or will Murray rise to the occasion?
Prediction
Both teams have something to prove, but the Chargers appear to have the edge, particularly with their strong running game and ability to control the clock. Arizona’s defense has struggled against the run all season, and if Dobbins sets the tone early, the Chargers may dictate the tempo in a relatively low-scoring affair.
However, Kyler Murray remains the wild card. If he can use his legs to create big plays, the Cardinals could keep this one close. However, as it stands, the Chargers seem to be the more complete team and are better positioned to execute their game plan.
Final Score Prediction: Chargers 24, Cardinals 20
Bonus Bet: Consider taking the rushing props for J.K. Dobbins and Kyler Murray. Both players contribute heavily to their team’s offense, and the game’s flow should allow plenty of rushing opportunities.
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