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Chargers vs Dolphins NFL Pick: LA Seeks Bounce Back in Miami (Oct 12)

Published Oct 8, 8:17pm ET by

Keith McCarthy - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer

Last updated Oct 8, 8:17pm ET

Pick status
Oklahoma State will play BYU in the NCAAF on October 18

Updated Oct 8, 8:19pm ET

  • The Chargers lost badly at home against the Commanders, falling 27-10 in the defeat.
  • Miami failed to build momentum in Carolina, losing to the Panthers 27-24 to fall to 1-4.
  • These two teams last met on September 10, 2023, in a game that the Dolphins won 36-34.

The Chargers and Dolphins face off this week in a coastal AFC battle. Both teams lost last week and look to this game as a chance to get back on track. Miami needs to win to avoid a 1-5 start.

Miami Dolphins vs. Los Angeles Chargers Overview Watch On: CBS

DATE & TIME

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 12 2025 @ 1:00 PM ET
Miami Dolphins
HARD ROCK STADIUM
MIAMI GARDENS, FL
Los Angeles Chargers
GAME ODDS
BetOnline
Dolphins +3.5
Chargers -3.5

Chargers Aiming to End Skid

After traveling to New Jersey in Week 4, the Chargers returned home to LA last week, and now get back on the plane to Miami. Their excessive travel may be a part of the reasoning behind their recent struggles after an impressive 3-0 start. Having lost their last two games against the Giants and Commanders, Los Angeles is in need of a bounce back. Their defense has been struggling to fill the hole left by Khalil Mack.

Dolphins in Dire Need of Win

Miami fell to 1-4 following a contested loss to the Panthers in Carolina. They return home needing a win to avoid sliding more. The Dolphins had an awful start to the season, but have since been more competitive. Still, they're now without top WR Tyreek Hill for the rest of the season. Jaylen Waddle did an admirable job in his place, hauling in 6 catches for 110 yards and a TD, but Miami has holes on both sides of the ball.

Chargers vs Dolphins NFL Pick

The Chargers enter this game favored by just 3.5 points after struggling in their last two games. Despite those losses, this is a pretty appealing line. Miami has been much worse off so far this season than Los Angeles, and is not consistent enough to take advantage of the Chargers being jetlagged from travel. A complete blowout is unlikely in Miami, but Los Angeles should win this matchup by at least a touchdown.

Pick
Los Angeles Chargers -3.5
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