The Chargers and Cardinals exceeded expectations in 2013 thanks to strong offenses. I think the Chargers will continue to play well this season but the Cardinals will have a regression. Philip Rivers is a reliable quarterback and Kennan Allen emerged as a go-to receiver. The Chargers defense added Brandon Flowers in the offseason, and the pass rushing duo of Melvin Ingram and Dwight Freeney will be dangerous in a  3-4.

The Cardinals offense has great weapons in Andre Ellington, Larry Fitzgerald and Michael Floyd. I think Arizona will regress because Carson Palmer will struggle this season. Arizona’s offensive line is shaky and defensive tackle Darnell Docket sustained a season-ending injury last month. Bruce Arians is a great coach but you never know what you’re going to get with Palmer.

I think the Chargers are the better team and the how field advantage for Arizona isn’t that great. The Chargers plus the points is the pick for the second Monday night game.

Pick: Chargers (+3)