2021 NFL picks, score predictions for Week 1

Los Angeles Chargers (0-0) at Washington Football Team (0-0)

Sunday, September 12, 1PM ET

There’s a lot of hype surrounding the Washington Football Team as a potential sleeper in 2021. I get it — they own one of the best defensive lines in football and Ryan Fitzpatrick is always a wild card. But I’d warn against sleeping on the Los Angeles Chargers as well.

Justin Herbert is arguably one of the game’s top young quarterbacks, having blown opponents away last season with his maturity and passing prowess. Now he’s got a full year under his belt, some healthy weapons to work with, and a supporting Los Angeles defense that tends to exceed expectations.

Furthermore, Los Angeles has a better supporting cast of skill players. With options like Keenan Allen, Mike Williams, Austin Ekeler and Jared Cook, the Chargers shouldn’t have too much trouble putting up points — even against Washington. That is, assuming the offensive line can hold up.

Even if D.C.’s defense proves to be a handful, I can’t see Washington mustering enough offensive movement to get the win. Expect a low-scoring game with the Chargers sneaking by for an opening-weekend W.

Prediction: Chargers win 16-14