Early odds and prediction for Commanders' make-or-break clash at Chargers

The Washington Commanders need something to go right. They are dealing with severe turmoil off the field and weren't at the races during a dismal loss to the Atlanta Falcons. Dan Quinn was visibly seething after, so fans are expecting a response from his players to avoid falling below .500.

Jim Harbaugh and the Los Angeles Chargers are standing in their way. They'll also be looking for a bounce-back after a shocking defeat against the New York Giants in Week 4. These are two old-school coaches who preach the importance of brotherhood and high character. That adds to the intrigue, and it promises to be an ultra-intense affair at SoFi Stadium.

This marks the beginning of a brutal stretch of games for the Commanders, with no routine and tough opposition. Starting on a positive note is essential.

Commanders at Chargers game details

• Date: Sunday, October 5
• Time: 4.25 p.m. ET
• Venue: SoFi Stadium
• Channel: FOX

Commanders at Chargers early odds for Week 5

According to the latest odds from FanDuel Sportsbook, the Commanders are 2.5-point underdogs on the road in Los Angeles this weekend.

• Washington +2.5 points: +100 (bet $100 to win $100)
• Los Angeles -2.5 points: -122 (bet $122 to win $100)

Anyone wishing to wager on the Commanders' money line can currently get odds of +134 (bet $100 to win $134). The Chargers are favored to pick up their fourth win in five games at -158 (bet $158 to win $100).

FanDuel Sportsbook has set the over/under at 48.5 points for the clash. This suggests that those fans expecting a thrilling contest might be in luck.

• Over 48.5 points: -105 (bet $105 to win $100)
• Under 48.5 points: -115 (bet $115 to win $100)

Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.

Commanders at Chargers early prediction for Week 5

This is a genuine crossroads game for the Commanders. Nothing but a victory will do, but there are also many unknowns attached.

How many, if any, key personnel will get the green light to return from injury? How much can those further down the pecking order step up if the Commanders are without influential figures once again? What defensive alterations can be made against NFL MVP candidate Justin Herbert? How can Washington generate pressure against a vulnerable Chargers offensive line?

These are conundrums that require correct solutions. The result is all that matters, and Washington needs to be prepared for the physical challenge ahead.

It's been a long time since the Commanders were in the red from a regular-season record perspective. Morale among the fan base has dwindled slightly, so a strong performance can help alleviate some growing concerns. Whether Quinn's squad can muster enough against a potential playoff challenger is another matter.

• Prediction: Commanders loss

The Giants managed to do just that. Washington has a shot, but that largely depends on the injury status of quarterback Jayden Daniels and others.