Staff predictions for Week 3

The Los Angeles Chargers kick off Week 3 against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Who is going to come out victorious?

Here is a look at the predictions from each of our writers at Chargers Wire:

Gavino:

This will be a defensive battle between two of the best teams on that side of the ball. The Chargers have had a lot of success running the football, but I envision them hitting a wall against a really good Steelers front. Plus, Justin Herbert is either going to play slightly banged up with his high ankle sprain or they’re going to resort to one of the backups, Easton Stick or Taylor Heinicke. It’ll be close, but the Bolts get their first loss of the season. Steelers 17, Chargers 14

Alex K:

This is contingent on Justin Herbert playing through his high ankle sprain. A limited version of him would still be preferable to Easton Stick or Taylor Heinicke. Los Angeles will have opportunities to pressure Justin Fields with right tackle Troy Fautanu questionable for Pittsburgh, setting up what should be a low-scoring affair. Chargers 20, Steelers 13

Spencer:

With Justin Herbert’s status in question, it’ll be tough for the Chargers to pull off a win in this one. Add the fact that it’s in Pittsburgh, and Jim Harbaugh has his hands full. A low-scoring affair is expected, as evidenced by the O/U being set at 34.5 points. Herbert’s health puts too many things into question, thus giving the Chargers their first loss of the season. Steelers 20, Chargers 13