Chargers vs. 49ers Preseason Week 3 Preview

Chargers vs. 49ers Preseason Week 3 Preview: A Fact-Based Analysis

The Los Angeles Chargers (2-1 preseason) face the San Francisco 49ers (1-1 preseason) on August 23, 2025, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara. This game serves as a final tune-up ahead of the 2025 NFL regular season. Here's a detailed, facts-driven breakdown to inform your betting or viewing.

Team Preseason Records and Recent Performance

Team	Preseason Record	Last Game Result	Points Scored	Points Allowed	Third Down %	Turnover Margin
Los Angeles Chargers	2-1	Lost to Rams 23-22	34 (Win vs DET), 27 (Win vs NO), 22 (Loss vs LAR)	7, 13, 23	5-13 (39%)	+1
San Francisco 49ers	1-1	Won vs Raiders 22-19	30 (Loss vs DEN), 22 (Win vs LV)	9, 19	3-11 (27%)	+1

The Chargers started strong with a big win over Detroit (34-7) and followed that with a solid 27-13 victory against New Orleans. Their last game was a close loss to the Rams (23-22), where they held a late lead but conceded a touchdown with five seconds left.

The 49ers lost their preseason opener 30-9 to Denver, then bounced back with a 22-19 win over the Raiders. Their performance was marked by challenges on third downs, converting only 3 of 14 attempts (21%), and dealing with turnover deficits early in the preseason.

Key Players: Quarterbacks and Defensive Standouts

Team	Player	Position	Passing Yards	Completion %	Rushing Yards	Notables
Los Angeles Chargers	Trey Lance	QB	121	7/15 (47%)	25	Expected to lead team; "revenge game" motivation
Los Angeles Chargers	Justin Herbert	QB	46 (limited play)	2/5 (40%)	N/A	Likely to sit this game
San Francisco 49ers	Mac Jones	QB	135	13/16 (81%)	N/A	Injured; unclear if playing
San Francisco 49ers	Carter Bradley	QB	96	8/13 (62%)	N/A	Expected to get majority reps

Defensive leaders in recent games include Myles Purchase for the Chargers with nine tackles and a sack, and for the 49ers, Nick Martin, who recorded six tackles and a sack.

Injury Impact and Depth Analysis

San Francisco is contending with significant injuries, especially among running backs — Patrick Taylor, Ameer Abdullah, Corey Kiner, and Jordan James are sidelined. Isaac Guerendo has returned to practice but may not play.

In contrast, Los Angeles appears healthier, with depth at quarterback, although the starter Justin Herbert is likely to rest this game, handing the reins to Trey Lance, whose motivation to impress his former team adds an intangible advantage.

Betting Odds Snapshot (as of August 20, 2025)

Team	Spread	Moneyline	Over/Under
Los Angeles Chargers	-2 to -2.5 (-108 to -134)	-134	Over 35.5-36.5 (-105 to -115)
San Francisco 49ers	+2 to +2.5 (-112 to +114)	+114	Under 35.5-36.5 (-105 to -115)

Expert Betting Insights

David Racey, boasting a 74% NFL preseason win rate (17-6) this year, favors the Chargers to win, citing Trey Lance’s strong preseason and 49ers’ injury woes as key factors. Another analyst, Chris Ruffolo, supports the Chargers, highlighting their depth advantage, especially at quarterback.

Final Notes

• Chargers hold a 2-1 preseason record; 49ers are 1-1.

• Chargers lost last game by 1 point after trailing the Rams.

• 49ers won a close game versus Raiders but struggle on third downs.

• Trey Lance will likely start for Chargers; Mac Jones may miss for 49ers.

• Chargers have superior depth and fewer injuries.

• Betting odds favor Chargers by about 2 to 2.5 points.

With significant injuries hampering the 49ers and Chargers motivated to finish strong, the facts point to a Chargers victory in this final preseason matchup.

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