The Washington Commanders (2-2) visit the Los Angeles Chargers (3-1) at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood for a Week 5 showdown, and USA TODAY’s panel of NFL experts have locked in their picks and predictions for the action. Here’s everything you need to know before kickoff on Sunday, October 5, including live updated odds and injury report news.
Chargers vs. Commanders live odds, moneyline, over/under
Get the edge with our exclusive NFL betting picks
Chargers vs. Commanders picks against the spread
Jon Hoefling: Los Angeles Chargers (-2.5)
If Washington can’t get their committee of backs going against a stout Chargers defense, it will be hard for them to find the end zone.
Tyler Dragon: Los Angeles Chargers (-2.5)
Is Jayden Daniels going to play and how effective will he be? The Chargers offensive line has been decimated by injuries. LA should be motivated after a lackluster performance in the Big Apple.
Richard Morin: Washington Commanders (+2.5)
The Commanders need to come up with a road win after falling to the Falcons last week. Good thing there’ll be plenty of Washington fans at SoFi Stadium.
Lorenzo Reyes: Washington Commanders (+2.5)
This will come down to Jayden Daniels’ availability. If he’s able to go, I’d back them here. Sunday’s loss against the Giants, while just one game, exposed some issues the Chargers have on their team, none of which is bigger than their red zone offense.
Blake Schuster: Los Angeles Chargers (-2.5)
Los Angeles bounces back at home after a really out of character loss to New York. That said, I’ve been very impressed by Marcus Mariota filling in for Jayden Daniels. Washington is no pushover.
Christopher Bumbaca: Los Angeles Chargers (-2.5)
Fading a short home favorite is something I’m a fan of but not here with Marcus Mariota making another start or Jayden Daniels returning from injury. The Chargers will be prepared after falling last week to the Giants.
Chargers vs. Commanders updated injury report
NFL Week 5 picks, predictions odds
USA TODAY NFL picks against the spread standings
| Name | Week 4 | 2025 Record |
|---|---|---|
| Blake Schuster | 10-5-1 | 34-27-3 |
| Jon Hoefling | 7-8-1 | 33-28-3 |
| Tyler Dragon | 8-7-1 | 33-28-3 |
| Lorenzo Reyes | 5-10-1 | 30-31-3 |
| Chris Bumbaca | 6-9-1 | 30-31-3 |
| Jordan Mendoza | N/A | 24-22-2 |
| Richard Morin | 9-6-1 | 9-6-1 |
