BRONCOS (4-1) at CHARGERS (1-4)
Line: DEN by 3.
Cote's pick: SD 27-24.
TV: 8:25 p.m. Thursday, CBS/NFLN.
Yes, Denver is the better team. Lead-blowing San Diego would only be good if games were three quarters long. But, in a division rivalry in prime time to kick off NFL Week 6, I like a desperate, due-to-catch-a-break home team getting points. It's a hunch based partly on law of averages. After four excruciating losses in a row, and 10 straight in AFC West, the football gods owe the damned Chargers a swing in fortunes. The time feels right. Stallions make the trip without coach Gary Kubiak (complex migraine) and could be without QB Trevor Siemian again as his sprained non-throwing shoulder heals. He said he hopes to play, but a game-time decision is due, with rookie Paxton Lynch again on deck. Key for Bolts: No turnovers, especially you, Melvin "Fumbles" Gordon. Other key: O-line keeping Von Miller off Philip Rivers, who aims to roll his fourth 300 in a row. On the other side, SD's pass rush fortified by Joey Bosa could do damage against a Denver blocking front beaten for six sacks by Atlanta last week. Upset!
