Keys to a Chargers’ victory over Patriots in Week 13

The Chargers are set to face off against the Patriots on Sunday. There are a few things that Los Angeles will need to do in order to a secure a victory.

Offensively, L.A. needs to utilize quick passes and play-action in the passing game. The Patriots are getting after quarterbacks at a very fast rate but are also letting up a large amount of yards after the catch. Running Austin Ekelercould be in store for big production in the passing game due to how valuable he is in the short areas of the field. Wide receiver Keenan Allen and tight end Hunter Henry could be due for a big game, as well.

New England has 12 players questionable, including cornerback J.C. Jackson, safety Kyle Dugger and linebacker Ja’Whaun Bentley. If they’re out, that would be beneficial to quarterback Justin Herbert and company.

Defensively, Los Angeles needs to stop New England’s multi-pronged running game and force quarterback Cam Newton into passing situations. Led by edge defender Joey Bosa, who had three sacks last weekend, the pressure needs to be turned on. If the Patriots resort to the ground game, push is needed up front to clog up holes. Missed tackles can’t occur, especially with Newton, who is particularly deadly in the red zone and in short-yardage situations. A quarterback spy will also be necessary to have.

On special teams, an area they rank dead last in the NFL, L.A. has to stay disciplined and can’t afford costly penalties and they need to swarm to the football to prevent big gains from occurring. Most importantly, coach Anthony Lynn needs to put together a solid game plan or else Bill Belichick will counter.