The Los Angeles Chargers are one-point favorites over the New England Patriots in Week 13, which is a bizarre betting line. The Patriots have a better record (5-6) and a better coach (Bill Belichick). And though Chargers (3-8) quarterback Justin Herbert is playing better than Patriots quarterback Cam Newton, Belichick has a 19-5 record against rookie signal-callers.
It seems like an easy Patriots’ win. But I think Herbert puts up huge numbers on Belichick’s defense, and manages to be the sixth rookie quarterback to defeat the Patriots coach. That would put Herbert in good company, with two of those rookie quarterbacks (Ben Roethlisberger, Russell Wilson) eventually winning Super Bowls during their careers. Belchick’s defense has struggled all season, and Herbert will pray with the Patriots during their off year.
