2018 NFL Picks, score predictions for Week 4

San Francisco 49ers (1-2) at Los Angeles Chargers (1-2)

Sunday, September 30, 4:25pm ET

Honestly, I was really excited about this matchup. Two quality teams that just couldn’t quite put it all together in the first couple of weeks. Unfortunately, following Jimmy Garoppolo’s knee injury (feared an ACL tear), it’s looking like this one may be out of reach for the San Francisco 49ers.

Assuming Garoppolo is out, the 49ers will be forced to roll with C.J. Beathard as their starting quarterback. While there are worse backup quarterbacks out there, I don’t think the former third-round pick has what’s needed to overcome this underrated Los Angeles Chargers defense.

On top of that, the Chargers should have the upperhand on offense. Philip Rivers is still slinging it like the outstanding veteran he is, and the ground game is working too. As long as Los Angeles doesn’t fall victim to too many penalties, turnovers or special teams mistakes, they shouldn’t have too much trouble outscoring Beathard.

The Chargers need a win in a big way to ensure they stay alive in the postseason hunt. With the Kansas City Chiefs beginning to pull away in the race for the AFC West, every win matters. This one should be their second of the season.

Prediction: Chargers win 27-16