Despite an epic performance from Ja’Marr Chase last week, I’m fading the superstar wideout on Sunday Night Football.
The pregame narrative: Chase is coming off an 11-catch, 264-yard showing last week, but that was without Tee Higgins on the field. With more mouths to feed in the Cincinnati Bengals’ offence this week — and a tough matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers — I don’t like this spot for the NFL’s leading receiver.
Find out why with my Bengals vs. Chargers best bet for Sunday Night Football on Nov. 17.
Bengals vs. Chargers best bet
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Best Bet: Chase under 6.5 receptions (+105)
How in my right mind can I fade Chase after last week’s spectacular performance?
Higgins, who’s missed three straight games, practiced all week and is expected to play. His presence is great for the Bengals, but it likely means a reduction in targets for Chase.
Here’s the per-game volume Chase has seen with and without Higgins this year:
- With Higgins (five games): 7.4 targets, 5.8 catches
- Without Higgins (five games): 10.0 targets, 7.4 catches
The Chargers’ pass defence is solid, allowing the ninth-fewest passing yards and the third-fewest WR receptions this season.
Key stat: Chase has gone under 6.5 catches in four of five games with Higgins this season. In fact, he saw seven or fewer targets in four of those five games, too.
Picks made at 1:30 p.m. ET 11/16/2024.
Jordan enjoys writing data-driven game previews and analysis articles — especially for MLB markets or NFL/NBA props. And as a proud Ohio University grad, he’ll always have a soft spot for college sports (especially if the Bobcats are involved). Previous stops include mlb.com, Sportsnet and The Athletic.