The Chargers arguably have the best player in the league and a nasty defense, so what’s stopping them from making another deep postseason run in 2008? Oddsmakers clearly like San Diego’s chances this year and have made the Chargers’ odds 7/1 to win the 2009 Super Bowl.
The Chargers added a great piece to their defense with former 49ers’ linebacker Derek Smith. The team also re-signed backup quarterback Billy Volek to provide insurance in case starter Philip Rivers went down to injury, as he did against the Colts in the playoffs last season. San Diego also got a lift in the secondary with first round pick Antoine Cason, formerly from the University of Arizona.
Many NFL enthusiasts and media publications love what they see out of the Chargers this year. Rivers really made strides as a quarterback last year and LaDainian Tomlinson is one of the best players in the entire league. Rivers also has plenty of weapons to throw to in the passing game with tight end Antonio Gates and receiver Chris Chambers. The defense is also stacked, from defensive tackle Jamal Williams to linebacker Shawne Merriman to cornerback Antonio Cromartie.
The odds are consistent across the board for San Diego. Current prices on the Chargers’ chances to win the 2009 Super Bowl are all 7/1 at major sports books Sportsbook.com, Bodog and SBG Global.
Oddsmakers have also set the Chargers’ over/under total for wins in 2008 at 10.5, but clearly think San Diego will win more than 10.5 games considering the over pays out at –155 compared to +125 for the under.
This is one of the best teams on paper in the entire league. The Chargers don’t have a lot of weaknesses and while the Patriots, Colts and Jaguars are going to be tough in the AFC again this year, San Diego matches up well with all of them. Assuming Tomlinson stays healthy and Rivers continues to develop, there’s no reason to think the Chargers can’t make a deep playoff run and perhaps a Super Bowl appearance.
San Diego Chargers Odds to Win 2009 Super Bowl
SBG Global 7-1
Bodog 7-1
Sportsbook.com 7-1
San Diego Chargers 2008 Regular Season Win Totals Odds
San Diego Chargers Over 10.5 Wins (-155)
San Diego Chargers Under 10.5 Wins (+125)