Chargers out to shock Steelers in high-scoring game

Sky Sports Action, 1.20am Monday

Two AFC heavyweights collide at Heinz Field when Pittsburgh host the LA Chargers in what promises to be an exciting clash.

Both entered Week 13 in the playoff spots and they will hope to continue their push to take part in the post-season action.

The Steelers are top of the AFC North but are under pressure to restore order after losing 24-17 to Denver last week, with Baltimore breathing down their necks.

The Chargers are just one win behind Kansas City as they tussle for supremacy in the AFC West.

Much of their success has stemmed from their sparky offences, and they are two of only seven teams in the league who have scored more than 300 points this season.

That ability could be on show again and the sides should combine to smash the total points line.

Pittsburgh have averaged 35.4 points when they have played at home this season, and registered 52 against Carolina in their last home game.

However, Anthony Lynn has every right to be confident his Chargers side can keep up, having scored 45 themselves last week against Arizona, and they are yet to score fewer than 20 points in a game this season. Austin Ekeler starts at running back with Melvin Gordon sidelined by a knee injury.

Both teams boast top-five offences and this meeting between veteran quarterbacks Ben Roethlisberger and Philip Rivers has all the makings of a classic.

Recommendation
Over 51.5 points
2pts 10-11 general

The lowdown
Venue Heinz Field, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Surface Grass
Weather Clear, 11C
Vegas handicap LA Chargers +3.5
Vegas points line 52

Team news
LA Chargers
Running back Melvin Gordon (knee), defensive tackle Brandon Mebane (personal) and offensive tackle Joe Barksdale (personal) are out. Wide receiver Tyrell Williams (quad) is rated questionable.

Pittsburgh
Offensive tackle Marcus Gilbert (knee) is still out and safety Morgan Burnett (back) is a doubtful participant. Cam Sutton (personal) and Bud Dupree (pectoral) are rated questionable.

Key stat
Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers has thrown at least two touchdowns in every game this season.

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