Free Pick: Los Angeles Chargers (4-1) at Baltimore Ravens (4-1) 10/17/21

This is a great AFC matchup between the upstart Chargers and the always dangerous Ravens. Both teams are 4-1 and leading their respective divisions. There isn’t much to choose from between the two and this should be as good a game as there will be this Sunday. Here are the matchups.

QUARTERBACKS: No one is playing better at quarterback than Justin Herbert for the Chargers. He has completed 139 passes out of 207 attempts for 1576 yards and 13 touchdowns. He should have a good game against the Ravens’ secondary. Baltimore will counter with Lamar Jackson who continues to dazzle with his arm and his feet. He has passed for 1519 yards and is the leading rusher with 341 yards on the ground. He has passed and rushed for 10 touchdowns. Advantage: Neither

RUNNING BACKS: Los Angeles has been running the ball better because of Austin Ekeler who now has 67 carries for 349 yards and 4 touchdowns. Besides Jackson, the Ravens have Latavius Murray who has 50 carries for 168 yards and 3 touchdowns. Advantage: Chargers

RECEIVING: The Chargers have two of the best in Keenan Allen (34 catches for 369 yards) and Mike Williams (31 for 471 yards and 6 touchdowns). Baltimore will counter with Mark Andrews (29 catches for 400 yards), Marquise Brown (25 for 451 and five TDs), and Sammy Watkins (18 for 292). Advantage: Chargers

DEFENSE: Both teams have similar defensive statistics. The Chargers would like to improve their run defense and with Baltimore’s rushing game that is a concern. The Ravens are giving up a lot of yards through the air and that will be an advantage for the Los Angeles. Advantage: Neither

All the stats and all the comparisons add up to a very even game that should go down to the wire. Both teams have dynamic quarterbacks, great receivers, and similar defenses. Who plays turnover-free and the cleanest is going to win this one. Baltimore is a 3-point favorite.

AARON’S PICK: Baltimore -3

PAPA DUDES PICK: Los Angeles +3