Updated
Updated · CBS Sports · Aug 21
Jeff Hochman Backs Under 39 in 49ers-Chargers Preseason Clash
Updated
Updated · CBS Sports · Aug 21

Jeff Hochman Backs Under 39 in 49ers-Chargers Preseason Clash

3 articles · Updated · CBS Sports · Aug 21

Summary

  • Under 39 points is Jeff Hochman’s top play for Thursday’s Week 2 preseason game, with San Francisco a 1.5-point road favorite and the total sitting at 38.5.
  • Backup-heavy usage drives the pick: Justin Herbert and Brock Purdy are expected to play only briefly again after sitting in Week 1, much like last preseason when each saw just one series per game.
  • Recent scoring trends also support a lower total — both teams stayed under in their openers, three of the last four meetings finished below 39, and the Chargers went 11-6-1 to the under last season.
  • San Francisco could be short on top weapons, with Christian McCaffrey and Mike Evans missing practice time because of tightness and George Kittle on the PUP list.
  • The game kicks off at 10 p.m. ET at SoFi Stadium, where the 49ers carry a 26-19 edge in 45 preseason meetings with the Chargers.

Insights

Can San Francisco's depleted offense overcome catastrophic injuries, or is this matchup destined to be a low-scoring defensive struggle?
With a decimated 49ers roster, will Trey Lance orchestrate a preseason revenge game against the franchise that drafted him?
As starters step aside after one series, which desperate rookies will seize the spotlight and secure their NFL futures?