The Denver Broncos had a chance to beat the San Francisco 49ers last week, but a combination of questionable calls by the officials and the strong momentum swing of that questionable call never happened. However, the offense looked rough again and Sean Payton once again took over the play-calling duties from offensive coordinator Davis Webb.
This is a game they must win. The Los Angeles Chargers are the walking wounded heading into Week 5 and have started the season 0-4. Their season hangs in the balance and there should be some desperation from them in this game. With the AFC West off to a strong start on the other two teams, the Broncos can’t afford to lose this game.
Denver Broncos vs. Los Angeles Chargers
Sunday, October 11, 2026 at 2:05 PM Mile High time
SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, California
ATS Betting Lines: Denver -3.5
Moneyline Winnings: Denver -186 / Los Angeles +156
Over/under: 42.5
Note: All odds courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook.
Collectively, our Mile High Report predicts a narrow Broncos 29-16 road victory over the Chargers. Here’s how we predict the result individually:
The Broncos should take down the Chargers this weekend. They are down almost every starter on the offensive line and missing every up and down roster heading into this game. There’s no reason why they shouldn’t feast on Justin Herbert’s dropbacks. Which means this game will be too close for comfort and we’ll have an upset until the final minutes of the game where I think Denver will still come out with a win — if only slightly. – Tim Lynch
The Chargers are 0-4, their OL is banged up, and the Harbaugh and McDaniels partnership needs Dr. Phil. The Broncos will use this as a get right game and their pass rush will come alive against a struggling and banged OL – Scotty Payne
The Broncos need to have a game where they put together a good offensive game plan. They need a game where the defense gets to the QB. They need to have a game against a bad offense and a struggling defense. See that flashing thing just coming in? Yes, the Chargers are charging and it might be just what the Broncos need. – Adam Malnati
Look, Broncos Country. This is our extra home game. The Chargers are in trouble. Herbert < Nix. It's time for the Broncos to show up and establish dominance. – Sadaraine
The Broncos have yet to play a complete game in which all three phases have performed well in four weeks. I hope that can change this Sunday against the Chargers. The offense needs to show signs of life. The defense needs to step up their pass rush and rattle Justin Herbert. Last but not least, special teams need to help win the field position battle and execute better. I hope they can do that and get their third victory of the season. – Chris Hart
Nix and the Broncos will look even better in a pseudo home game on Sunday. They run the ball and they can use Waddle more. I hope someone passes through the middle of the field? The defense will control the line of scrimmage and harass Herbert throughout the game while forcing him into several turnovers. All leading up to the Broncos’ victory on Sunday. – Ian St. Clair