Week 12 of the 2024 NFL season wraps up with an electric AFC showdown as the Baltimore Ravens visit the Los Angeles Chargers on Monday Night Football. With major playoff implications on the line, this clash between two 7-win teams is poised to send shockwaves through the conference standings.
Harbaugh vs. Harbaugh: Sibling Rivalry Reignited
The matchup marks the first meeting between head coaching brothers John and Jim Harbaugh since their infamous face-off in Super Bowl 47. Both the Ravens and Chargers are determined to gain an edge in the AFC playoff picture, setting the stage for an epic battle of X’s, O’s, and family bragging rights on the national stage.
While John’s Chargers ride a scalding four-game win streak, the Ravens hope to bounce back after having their own streak snapped by the Steelers last week. But even after that hiccup, Baltimore remains the betting favorite to take the AFC North crown.
Inside the Odds: Chargers Slight Home Dogs
The Chargers opened as 2.5-point home underdogs with an over/under of 47.5 points. But the line has since ticked up to 50.5, perhaps a nod to the offensive fireworks expected when the Ravens’ top-ranked rushing attack meets a Chargers offense fresh off dropping 30+ in three of their last four.
Other notable betting angles include:
- The Chargers’ scorching 8-2 record against the spread this season, tied for best in the NFL
- LA’s flawless 5-0 mark ATS at home – their longest such streak since 2007
- The Ravens’ league-leading 9-2 over rate, with an average combined score of 53.2 PPG
- Lamar Jackson’s sterling 16-8 ATS record in primetime games
Prop Talk: Betting the Stars
Unsurprisingly, the props markets center heavily around each team’s MVP-caliber quarterback. Reigning winner Lamar Jackson’s passing yardage prop sits at 249.5, though the under (-145) is juiced heavier than a California orange. Meanwhile, the ascendant Justin Herbert is a slight betting favorite to go over 249.5 passing yards himself.
Other skill position player props of note include:
- Ladd McConkey OVER 69.5 receiving yards (-135)
- Zay Flowers OVER 59.5 receiving yards (-115)
- Will Dissly OVER 44.5 receiving yards (-105)
- J.K. Dobbins OVER 44.5 rushing yards (-130)
Pundit’s Pick: Bolts Silence the Flock
While Baltimore’s ground-and-pound has bulldozed opponents all year, I’m backing Herbert and the Chargers’ electrifying aerial attack to carve up a Ravens secondary allowing the most passing yards per game. LA’s defense – tops in the league in points allowed – will do just enough to slow Lamar and escape with a narrow win.
I’m rolling with the Bolts on the moneyline. This young Chargers squad is catching fire at the right time and playing some inspired football. Division odds aside, this could be a preview of even bigger games to come in January.
ESPN Football Expert
Forecast: Chargers 27, Ravens 23
The stakes couldn’t be higher as these AFC titans clash under the Monday night lights. Will the upstart Chargers announce their arrival as legitimate contenders, or will the battle-tested Ravens land another statement win? Charge up the popcorn, place those bets, and buckle up for a November thriller.
