Chargers favored over NFL-best Colts thanks to optimism about Mack, Alt injury update

Cameron Dicker's kick saved the Los Angeles Chargers from a catastrophic loss, and sent them into a colossal showdown.

Seconds from a ugly loss to the lowly Dolphins last weekend in Miami, Justin Herbert and Ladd McConkey set the table and Dicker delivered on a 33-yard field goal as time expired. The difference: Instead of carrying a three-game losing streak, the Bolts now have momentum entering Week 7.

MORE: Herbert's Heroics: Chargers' QB has second-most late game-winning drives since 2020

And they'll need it. In a clash of AFC division leaders, the Chargers are favored by only 1.5 points Sunday at home against the surprising Indianapolis Colts. The line is a sign of respect for head coach Jim Harbaugh's 4-2 team, as the Colts come to SoFi Stadium tied for the NFL's best record at 5-1.

While the Chargers remain a banged-up team missing stars - such as Khalil Mack, Joe Alt and Omarion Hampton - the Colts arrive as one of the most surprising stories of the season. Quarterback Daniel Jones has resurrected his career after a flameout with the New York Giants, and running back Jonathan Taylor leads the league with 603 yards and seven rushing touchdowns.

MORE: Chargers' trade acquisition Odafe Oweh immediately gets first sack vs. Dolphins

Only one of the Colts' five wins, however, has come against a team (Denver Broncos) with a winning record. Their other four: Dolphins, Titans, Raiders and Cardinals.

Mack is eligible to come off Injured Reserve this week, and Alt remains week-to-week with an ankle injury. Both could return against the Colts.

MORE: Justin Herbert-to-Ladd McConkey saves game with Chargers' Play of the Year

Herbert saved the Chargers in Miami by escaping a sack to hit McConkey with a 42-yard gain with less than 30 seconds remaining.

Said Harbaugh, "That play will be burned in my mind until they throw dirt over top of me."

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Justin Herbert gets sacked by the Colts in 2022. | Robert Scheer/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK

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