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Los Angeles Chargers at New England Patriots: Predictions, picks and odds for NFL Week 13 game

When you hit rock bottom, the only way to go is up, right?

Both the New England Patriots (2-9) and Los Angeles Chargers (4-7) are in desperate need of a win with both head coaches on the hot seat and two underperforming quarterbacks.

Bill Belichick benched Mac Jones mid-game for the fourth matchup this season on Sunday when the Patriots lost to the New York Giants 10-7. Jones has been the starter the entire season despite throwing 12 interceptions.

Brandon Staley's team is riding a three-game losing streak after dropping a lead in each one. Justin Herbert, the highest-paid quarterback in the league, had 217 passing yards, his third-lowest of the season, in a 20-10 loss to the Baltimore Ravens.

PROP TALK: These are the best prop bets for NFL games this week

Patriots vs. Chargers odds, moneyline, over/under

The Chargers are favorites to defeat the Patriots, according to the BetMGM NFL odds. Looking to wager? Check out the best mobile sports betting apps offering NFL betting promos in 2023, including the new ESPN BET app.

  • Spread: Chargers (-5.5)

  • Moneyline: Chargers (-250); Patriots (+200)

  • Over/under: 40

Not interested in this game? Our guide to NFL betting odds, picks and spreads has you covered with Thursday Night Football odds, Sunday Night Football odds and/or Monday Night Football odds.

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NFL Week 13 odds, predictions and picks

Cowboys vs. Seahawks | Patriots vs. Chargers | Saints vs. Lions | Jets vs. Falcons | Steelers vs. Cardinals | Titans vs. Colts | Commanders vs. Dolphins | Texans vs. Broncos | Buccaneers vs. Panthers | Eagles vs. 49ers | Rams vs. Browns | Packers vs. Chiefs | Jaguars vs. Bengals

Lorenzo Reyes: Chargers 21, Patriots 7

The Patriots are tied for last in the NFL with only two covers this season. They do not have a quarterback and their roster is riddled with holes. The Chargers have been uneven, but they should easily roll here.

Tyler Dragon: Chargers 24, Patriots 17

Who will start at QB for the Patriots? New England’s offense hasn’t scored more than seven points in two straight contests. Lucky for the Patriots, the worst defense in the NFL is coming to town. The Chargers have underachieved all season long. However, Justin Herbert should lead the Chargers to a victory.

Safid Deen: Chargers 24, Patriots 13

The Chargers have been unable to win close games dating back to last season, but this one shouldn’t be close at all. Then again, you never know when the Chargers will Charger.

Victoria Hernandez: Chargers 23, Patriots 10

Both teams have been far from performing up to the lofty expectations either set by their past precedent or current promise. But the Chargers aren’t quite as in the gutter as the Patriots are. Justin Herbert and Keenan Allen at least have a strong connection while the rest of the NFL world continues to scratch its head over what exactly Bill Belichick is trying to do between Mac Jones and Bailey Zappe.

Jordan Mendoza: Chargers 26, Patriots 9

Even with all the struggles on defense for Los Angeles, New England still has one of the worst offenses in the league no matter who is under center. The Chargers end their three-game skid while the Patriots focus on just scoring more than 10 points.

You can view the full list of USA TODAY's NFL expert predictions here.

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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Los Angeles Chargers at New England Patriots: Game predictions, picks, odds