The Los Angeles Chargers have the opportunity to make a significant mark in the early stages of the 2023 NFL season as they prepare to face the Denver Broncos on September 24, 2023, at SoFi Stadium. Following victories over the Kansas City Chiefs and the Las Vegas Raiders, the Chargers are poised to take control of the AFC West with a win against their divisional rivals.
Currently, BetMGM has installed the Chargers as a three-point favorite for the matchup against the Broncos, who hold a 1-1 record. A victory for the Chargers would not only elevate their season record to 3-0 but also establish a unique franchise achievement, as all three wins would come against divisional opponents.
Potential Historical Impact
Winning against the Broncos would mark the first time since 2002 that the Chargers have started a season with three consecutive victories, with the added distinction of defeating all divisional foes. The last occasion the team achieved victories in its opening three AFC West games was in 1996. Such a feat is rare in the NFL; only two teams have accomplished this since the league expanded to 32 teams in 2002.
Before the appointment of current head coach Jim Harbaugh for the 2024 campaign, the Chargers last held a 2-0 record in 2012. A third win would not only boost the current season but also rewrite parts of the franchise’s history.
Implications for the AFC West Standings
This Sunday’s game is crucial for both the Chargers and the Broncos. A win would place the Chargers at the top of the AFC West, providing them with a one-game lead over the 1-1 Raiders, depending on the outcome of their game against the Washington Commanders. Conversely, a loss would level both teams at 2-1, with the Broncos holding the tiebreaker based on their head-to-head matchup.
The importance of this game extends beyond mere standings. A successful performance against the Broncos would solidify the Chargers’ position as a formidable contender in a division expected to be fiercely competitive this season. With the Chargers not facing another AFC West opponent until their bye week in late November, establishing an early lead could prove invaluable.
As the Chargers look to make history, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if they can rise to the occasion and seize control of the AFC West in this pivotal early-season clash.