San Diego Chargers

Were they the right moves? Let’s break ‘em down!

 

San Diego Chargers retain General Manager A.J. Smith and Head Coach Norv Turner

OH COME ON!!! I was finally ready to break-up the Turner/Philips romance. However, you can chalk up this stay of execution to a few select reasons. First, key players (i.e. Rivers) probably bitched enough to convince management that it would cause chemistry issues to change coaches. Second, who were they going to get that was even marginally better? Turner’s still got swagger when it comes to his offense, so I’m not sure who was out there (that would come to San Diego) that would be a marked improvement. Maybe Cowher or Gruden if they got extraordinarily lucky, but I’m sure they were rejected outright on those fronts. Finally, it’s the AFC West. A couple plays would have made the difference in getting the Chargers to the playoffs, so they don’t need to improve much to get there next year. Right Call?

Continue reading "Reid and Turner back for 2012: Really?"

You can tell that team loves Romeo. (Why, who knows.)(8-8) San Diego Chargers 38
(8-8) Oakland Raiders 26

Carson Palmer put Tim Tebow in the damn playoffs. I now HATE that stupid trade.

Continue reading "The Final Drive: Week 17, 2011-12"

this picture of Jacobs and Ryan jawing afterward? Weird.

(10-5) Detroit Lions 38
(7-8) San Diego Chargers 10

Detroit clinches its first playoff spot since 1999 at the expense of the

Continue reading "The Final Drive: Week 16, 2011"

rsquo;m picking the Steeler defense in this match-up… because not much else excites me.(7-7) San Diego Chargers at
(9-5) Detroit Lions

At the very least, there should be some points on the board when this game concludes. A lot of points. San Diego’s somehow charging back into the AFC West picture, but the Lions are fighting to hold onto the first playoff slot they’ve had in for-FREAKING-ever.(6-8) Philadelphia Eagles at

Continue reading "The Opening Drive: Week 16, 2011"

I can’t believe they have a chance to win the division.

(7-7) San Diego Chargers 34
(10-4) Baltimore Ravens 14
That’s it Baltimore. I’m done with you. Your utter lack of intensity versus “sub-par” teams is ridiculous and pathetic. I don’t care how good your defense is supposed to be or how great you think Joe Flacco’s season has been, you clearly don’t want to win your division or get a home playoff game. Have fun losing on the road again, slackers.

Continue reading "The Final Drive: Week 15, 2011"

his one, because the resulting storylines will be magnificent.(10-3) Baltimore Ravens at
(6-7) San Diego Chargers

Hey Baltimore, if you fall victim to the late-blooming Chargers on Sunday night, I will laugh my non-existent butt off. Philip Rivers might be getting hot late once again, but that Raven defense can’t let up this week, especially in the midst of a playoff run. Baltimore wants that two-seed or the division title, and they need to win out to get either.(10-3) Pittsburgh Steelers at

Continue reading "The Opening Drive: Week 15, 2011"

, and key injuries have all contributed to the Eagle downfall.

(6-5) Denver Broncos 16
(4-7) San Diego Chargers 13
Speaking of coaching changes, the Chargers are due. Norv Turner’s been wasting “the most talent in the NFL” for years and this year is one of the worst. There’s no miraculous stretch run in this team. On the other sideline… forget it. I don’t even want to talk about him. (Besides to mention his nickname is now “Jebus and Teebs.”

Continue reading "The Final Drive: Week 12, 2011"

WTF is wrong with me???(5-5) Denver Broncos at
(4-6) San Diego Chargers

With two minutes to go, Tim Tebow will call down a lightning bolt of his own to smote Philip Rivers. Oddly enough, it won’t look anything like the bolt on the Charger helmets. As far as on the field action goes, Denver’s defense might get all up in Rivers’ grill and make him look hopeless and lost for the umpteenth time this season. Get ready to watch Phil lose you another game Charger fans.(6-4) New York Giants at

Continue reading "The Opening Drive: Week 12, 2011"

But then the scoring came in bunches as the Chicago Bears held off the San Diego Chargers on Sunday afternoon, increasing their winning streak to five games despite numerous comeback attempts.

Continue reading "Joe's 2011 Gameday Recap: Bears 31, Chargers 20"

Riding high with four straight wins, the Chicago Bears welcome in the San Diego Chargers, who are sweeping the floors of the AFC West thanks to four straight losses. Can the Bears force more Philip Rivers turnovers in front of their home crowd today? Or will the Chargers begin their annual late-season winning streak? It’s time for another Gameday Preview!

Continue reading "Joe's 2011 Gameday Preview: Chargers at Bears"

elcome back Thursday Night Football… we missed you.

(4-4) Oakland Raiders at
(4-4) San Diego Chargers

So I say this game could be sloppy for two reasons: Philip Rivers and Carson Palmer. Rivers leads the league with 14 interceptions on the year, single-handedly bringing the Chargers down from a division-leading 4-1 to a middle of the pack 4-4. While San Diego’s defense is still playing at a relatively high level, they can’t defend against pick-sixes. Without Malcom Floyd, the Chargers will rely heavily on Vincent Jackson and Antonio Gates to stretch the field. (Duh.)

Continue reading "Joe's 2011 Thursday Night Preview: ..."

(8-0) Green Bay Packers 45
(4-4) San Diego Chargers 38

This was probably too close for comfort for Packer fans, but they’ll take. That defense is cause for concern though. Still, the story of this game is clearly Philip Rivers, who lost the game for his team AGAIN. Sure he had four touchdowns, but he also had three interceptions. Two pick-sixes in the first quarter and a final pick late to seal the win for the Packers. There’s something wrong there.

Continue reading "The Final Drive: Week 9, 2011"

(7-0) Green Bay Packers at
(4-3) San Diego Chargers

As a Bears fan, I shouldn’t be rooting for the Packers. That being said, fuck the Chargers. I love watching them implode, explode and every other type of ‘ploding that can be done. Philip Rivers is clearly out-of-sync and won’t get any help from a blitz-crazy Packers defense.(5-2) Baltimore Ravens at

Continue reading "The Opening Drive: Week 9, 2011"

LeSean McCoy’s carries up, they’ll keep winning.(4-3) Kansas City Chiefs 23
(4-3) San Diego Chargers 20

This was some epically awesome and horrendous football. I love watching two teams suck it up for four quarters. The Chiefs may have been inept on offense for three quarters, but Philip Rivers sucked something awful with two interceptions and two fumbles (one lost). Watching Rivers throw interceptions is right up there with Brandon Marshall drops as the things I love most in the NFL. 

Continue reading "The Final Drive: Week 8, 2011"

Let the debate rage on! (Also, fire Tony Sparano right now.) (4-3) New York Jets 27
(4-2) San Diego Chargers 21

I feel bad for Charger fans who saw their team just pfft away a sure win to freaking Mark Sanchez and an ex-con. I said it.(3-3) Kansas City Chiefs 28

Continue reading "The Final Drive: Week 7, 2011"

Can you imagine if he loses to the winless Dolphins? Hilarious.(4-1) San Diego Chargers at
(3-3) New York Jets

I REALLY want to see Philip Rivers and the Chargers demolish this Jet defense. If the Jets slip to below .500 in their division, they begin to slip off the playoff precipice. This feels like a “Mark Sanchez bounces back so he can disguise how awful he really is” kind of game, but I can’t take the Jets at all.(2-3) Kansas City Chiefs at

Continue reading "The Opening Drive, Week 7, 2011"

San Francisco slightly less so. This win probably seals the NFC West title.(4-1) San Diego Chargers 29
(1-4) Denver Broncos 24

The only reason I bring this game up? Tim Tebow finally saw some action… and looked pretty decent. He’s not an overly crisp passer yet, but he can buy time in the pocket and sling it pretty far with some velocity. Tebow replaced Kyle Orton at halftime because of Orton’s ineffectiveness and turnovers. I don’t care anymore. It’s time to give Tebow the reigns for the rest 2011 and see what he can do.(4-1) New England Patriots 30

Continue reading "The Final Drive: Week 5, 2011"

e haters at now? (Well, it was just the Niners, but still.)(2-0) New England Patriots 35
(1-1) San Diego Chargers 21

The self-destructive Chargers were handled by the Patriots yet again. There were too many miscues and too much Tom Brady for San Diego to overcome. Brady’s on a wicked tear right now.

Continue reading "The Final Drive: Week 2, 2011"

o;re going to fall back to Earth slightly.
2010 Record: 10-6
2011 Prediction: 9-7 

San Diego Chargers

I feel my 11-5 prediction is going to be taken as a sign I like the Chargers. I don’t. It’s the same story EVERY freaking year. They have gobs of talent spewing out of every orifice. Philip Rivers is fiery and masterful. If they can stay healthy they’ll contend for a Super Bowl. Norv Turner isn’t a bad coach blah blah blah. Look, they’re clearly the best team in this division, but that was the case last year too and they managed to screw that up with the worst season of special teams in the history of the NFL. I love Vincent Jackson and Malcolm Floyd, their top two receivers, but Rivers has never had an issue airing it out whenever necessary. On paper, their defense should be electric, with Antonio Garay, Luis Castillo and rookie Corey Liuget on the line. Takeo Spikes is still an explosive linebacker, backed up by Eric Weddle and a punishing Bob Sanders (if he stays remotely healthy) at the safety slots. Just don’t expect anything special once the regular season ends. Except for an early playoff exit and a head-scratching Norv Tuner extension?

Continue reading "Joe's 2011 NFL Season Preview: The AFC West"

they can make an impact as long as the Jekyll and Hyde David Garrard is under center.

AFC West

San Diego Chargers

My prediction: 10-6
What actually happened: 9-7
My result: ****

Continue reading "How Much I Effed Up: The 2010 AFC Edition"

for next year… the ensuing chaos would be hilarious.(4-11) Cincinnati Bengals 34
(8-7) San Diego Chargers 20

You’re fighting to get into the playoffs and you lose to freaking Cincinnati? How embarrassing. I’m honestly glad the Chargers didn’t get into the postseason. They don’t deserve it and I don’t want to hear every five minutes about they’re the “dark horse,” just to watch them crash and burn in the wild-card round. For Cincy, maybe Carson Palmer’s better off without two diva wide-outs yelling at him? Take a cue from the Patriots and ditch the drama.

Continue reading "Joe's 2010 NFL Final Drive: Week 16"

 (5-8) San Francisco 49ers at
(7-6) San Diego Chargers

Okay, so who really knows how to predict this mess of a west coast match-up? The 49ers just dropped a 40-burger on Seattle last week and are somehow still in the playoff hunt. The Chargers shut out the Cassel-less Chiefs last weekend but were spanked by Oakland the week before. Any outcome is possible tonight. But let’s break it down anyway, shall we?

Continue reading "Joe's 2010 Thursday Night Quickie: ..."

Five. Zoinks.

Getty Images

(7-6) San Diego Chargers 31
(8-5) Kansas City Chiefs 0

Uh… Kansas City really needs Matt Cassel. Like a lot. Getting drubbed by the Chargers is more than enough proof of that. San Diego climbs in the standings while taking the Chiefs downs a notch. Also: Brodie Coyle sucks.

Continue reading "Joe's 2010 NFL Final Drive: Week 14"

Oh wait, so does the defense.

(8-4) Kansas City Chiefs at
(6-6) San Diego Chargers

This would have been a more significant game had the Chargers not shocked the NFL with their play against the Raiders last week. Now they get Brodie Croyle and a Chiefs team that will rely heavily on Jamaal Charles and the ground attack. They’ll be predictable and without their best QB. It could be a recipe for a loss.

Continue reading "Joe's 2010 NFL Opening Drive: Week 14"

andon Jacobs going, the Giants are nearly impossible to beat.

(6-6) Oakland Raiders 28
(6-6) San Diego Chargers 13

Well the Chargers finally lost a December game. ‘Bout time. I’d like to thank the Raiders for putting it on Norv Turner’s squad by rushing it for 251 yards. Down 21-3 at halftime, the Chargers completely abandoned the run, gaining only 21 yards on eight carries. Good on ya Oakland.

Continue reading "Joe's 2010 Final Drive: Week 13"

The Chargers are coming, but the Chiefs aren’t giving ground yet.

(6-5) San Diego Chargers 36
(6-5) Indianapolis Colts 14

What is it about the San Diego Chargers that Peyton Manning can’t decipher? Manning has played some of his worst games (and there are few of those) against San Diego, and last night continued the trend. Norv Turner’s Chargers keep chugging along, slowly crawling out of the hole as they do every season. Philip Rivers may be more impressive this year than in years past, but I’m not buying them as anything great. I see this all the time.

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 12"

The real Vikings eventually showed up to play, saving Brad Childress' job for the week.

(4-5) San Diego Chargers 29
(4-4) Houston Texans 23

Have the Chargers started their annual rise from the proverbial ashes? Perhaps. Does it really matter? Methinks not. Without several weapons on the field, Philip Rivers still made the Houston defense look pathetic by tossing four touchdowns. And where's the "dark horse" Texans we're supposed to be seeing this season? Until they do it, I don't believe in this team. They're a mediocre version of the Colts. And without Peyton Manning, you can't be the Colts.

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 9"

l keep the Dolphin offense from getting more than 17 points, which is the recipe for a win.

(3-5) San Diego Chargers at
(4-3) Houston Texans

No Gates, Floyd or Nanee means Philip Rivers has to do it all on his own today. That spells trouble against a Houston squad that must be fuming after being overwhelmed by Indianapolis on national television Monday night. Andre Johnson's going to gut it out again today, but he won't be very effective. Still, Schaub and the Texans can and should defend their turf.

Continue reading "Joe's 2010 NFL Opening Drive: Week 9"

'll give the Jets the edge the edge in this marquee match-up

(5-2) Tennessee Titans at
(2-5) San Diego Chargers

Don't ask me why I've still got games involving the Chargers and Vikings in the Opening Drive this week. The schedule is that weak. I expect Tennessee to run all over the San Diego defense, giving Vince Young a smooth transition back into the starting line-up. San Diego's already out of the hunt as far as I'm concerned and I don't see them going on a tear like they have in years past. They just don't have the talent.

Continue reading "Joe's 2010 NFL Opening Drive: Week 8"

se or the Denver defense?

Getty Images

(5-1) New England Patriots 23
(2-5) San Diego Chargers 20

It ended up being closer than I'd expected, but the better team won this game. Still, when will Bill Belichick finally NOT go for the fourth down when the game is close? Beyond that, when will his team actually convert one? Also, it's officially time to stop caring about the Chargers. Philip Rivers is a good quarterback on a bad team that desperately misses Vincent Jackson and the 2005 Shawne Merriman. Simply not enough playmakers.

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 7"

Seattle's at home. 'Nuff said. Pfft.

(4-1) New England Patriots at
(2-4) San Diego Chargers

I hesitated to even put this game in the article. This can't be close. The Chargers can't hang with the Pat' offense and their special teams are likely to make bone-headed plays with consistency. I'd say keep an eye on Tom Brady's stat line, but I think Belichick's going to try and establish the run.

Continue reading "Joe's Opening Drive: Week 7"

Ten catches for 127 yards proves it.

Getty Images

(3-3) St. Louis Rams 20
(2-4) San Diego Chargers 17

How 'bout them Rams? They're at .500 for the season and held off the still-sluggish Chargers for their third win! After being pounded by Detroit last weekend, it would have been easy for this team to sink back into their losing ways but Sam Bradford has them ready for battle every week. They're still in the race for a division title, shockingly enough. As for San Diego, I barely like talking about them. Their offensive is explosive and Rivers is fantastic but their defense is weak and their special teams are horrific. Even if they turn it around, they're not a serious contender for much of anything.

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 6"

Getty Images

(2-3) Oakland Raiders 35
(2-3) San Diego Chargers 27

Just like Miami's dismissal of their special teams coach thanks to last Monday night's debacle, San Diego needs to make a move this week. Two blocked punts are just the latest slip-ups in a series of blunders that have cost the Chargers games they were supposed to win. Norv Turner's offense can load up on statistics as much as they want, they still aren't avoiding these slow starts and they can't win in the playoffs. What else is new? Maybe this win gives Tom Cable to actually stick with Jason Campbell at quarterback instead of jumping off the ship two games in. Ridiculous.

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 5"

He's the starter by default.

(2-1) Seattle Seahawks 27
(1-2) San Diego Chargers 20

Hey, the Chargers lost another game early in the season they were heavily favored to win! What a McShock! That NEVER happens. San Diego had plenty of chances to get back into this contest, much as they did versus Kansas City in week one.  Unfortunately, their special teams unit let them down by allowing TWO return touchdowns to Leon Washington. How good does that trade look for the Seahawks now? At 2-1, the Seahawks have two solid wins on their resume and look to have the talent to compete in this weak division.

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 3"

aight week the Jets have NO shot of beating the Pats. (1-0) Jacksonville Jaguars at
(0-1) San Diego Chargers An off-the-radar contest, the Chargers are looking to get back on track after an odd early loss, just like they do every year. You can tell they (especially Philip Rivers) miss Vincent Jackson's vertical threat. The Jaguars could sneak out of here with a win, but the east-to-west coast travelers usually aren't on their game. Garrard needs to stay in the 20-24 attempt range and the Jags need to dish out a heavy dose of Maurice Jones-Drew. (1-0) New York Giants at(0-1) Indianapolis Colts Sunday night Manning Bowl y'all! Who's ready? The two QB brothers are playing at a high level following week one, but their teams are still feeling things out. The Giants are transitioning to Ahmad Bradshaw at running back, turning them into more of a passing offense. Peyton's Colts have actually lost a regular season game they wanted to win, so that's always odd. What isn't odd is Bob Sanders' injury. The Colts defense was already susceptible to the run, so Bradshaw could factor largely into their demise. Regardless, there will be plenty of aerial barrages tonight, so don't miss it! (1-0) New Orleans Saints at

Continue reading "Joe's NFL Opening Drive: Week 2"

d a way to win, which is what Super Bowl-hopeful teams do.

(1-0) Kansas City Chiefs 21
(0-1) San Diego Chargers 14

In typical Chargers fashion, they stumble early in the season against a lesser opponent. No one can tell me with a straight face they won't win the AFC West, but at least it'll be interesting early on. The Chiefs aren't going to be mistaken for for the Patriots any time soon (unless you look at the coaching staff, GM, or roster), but this was a fantastic win to start the year. After getting up 21-7 they played to not lose instead of going for the win, but they held tough against multiple Charger rallies. 

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 1"

Can we call them the "Mile-High Girls?" No? Crap. 

San Diego Chargers

Philip Rivers had one of the best regular season performances last year, but he was overshadowed by Peyton Manning along with everyone else. Rivers has established himself in the top tier of NFL signal-callers, but he has yet to make the ascension to dominance. This year may prove difficult to take that step, as deep threat Vincent Jackson is holding out and trying to work out a trade someplace else. If he's not on the team, expect that 5th ranked pass offense to lag slightly. Legedu Naanee and Malcolm Floyd are dependable receivers, but they can't make the same plays Jackson has. Running back Ryan Matthews seems prepared to make an immediate impact, partnered with Darren Sproles. Experimenting with Sproles as a featured back was a bad idea, one that Matthews' presence will correct. Antonio Gates is still the most explosive tight end in the league and will put up another monster season. If left tackle Marcus McNeill continues his holdout, the offensive line will have a hard time protecting Rivers long enough to throw a deep ball.

Continue reading "Joe's NFL 2010 Season Preview: AFC West"

 

Football is back baby! That means we get to watch our Bears in action! Here are my notes from tonight's 25-10 preseason loss to the Chargers:

-He wasn't in the game for long, but Jay Cutler looked well enough in the eight plays he was on the field. He completed both of his pass attempts to Johnny Knox for 47 total yards. Otherwise it was hand-offs and a sack for Jay tonight in a bland offensive gameplan. Still, there's a noticeable difference on that side of the ball thanks to Martz. We'll see how it looks going forward. Some fans were surprised at Cutler only playing one series, but I was fine with it. He'll get plenty of reps in the next two games. Though I honestly doubted Lovie's claim of playing his starters close to a half. Yeah, right.

Continue reading "Wright, Aromashodu stand out in Bears' ..."

It's been too long since I've gotten to talk about live Chicago Bears football! On Saturday the Bears will be in San Diego to take on the Charges in their first exhibition game this year. While I'll go in-depth at each position in later blogs, I'll let you know what to look for if you're in the mood to watch some scrubs fight for jobs.

Continue reading "Joe's Preseason Preview: Bears at Chargers"

After winning 11 straight games to finish the regular season, the San Diego Chargers came out with a resounding thud at home against the Jets on Sunday. Penalties, missed field goals and turnovers formed a perfect storm of suck for the Chargers and kept the Jets in the game until the final quarter where they took and held onto the lead to advance to the AFC championship game with a 17-14 victory.

Continue reading "Jets stun Chargers 17-14 in San Diego"

Go Cowboys.

New York Jets at San Diego Chargers
4:40PM ET CBS 

After roughing up the Bengals, hopes are high in New York. Their Jets have the number one defense and number running game in the NFL, but Mark Sanchez is the key to the offense's success. His first step is not making mistakes, second is putting up points. Darelle Revis should have been the defensive player of the year, but he'll have his hands full with a probably match-up on the 6'5" Vincent Jackson.

Continue reading "Joe's Opening Drive: Divisional Sunday"

is could be a signature win to carry them over into next year.

(9-4) Cincinnati Bengals at (10-3) San Diego Chargers

In the most significant game of the weekend, San Diego and Cincinnati are essentially playing for the number two seed in the AFC and an additional home game in the playoffs. San Diego has been lighting teams up in December while the Bengals were just lambasted by Minnesota. After the tragic loss of Chris Henry, I can't believe the Bengals are going to have enough in the tank to head out west and win.

Continue reading "Joe's Opening Drive: Week 15"

They're certainly not the elite team everyone expected them to be.

(10-3) San Diego Chargers 20
(8-5) Dallas Cowboys 17

Oh Tony Romo, why do you get all the grief and blame? I don't think anything's wrong with the Cowboys this season, they just have a ridiculously difficult end of the season schedule. While they're not the powerhouse of years past, I've seen some positives from Dallas this year. Chargers QB Philip Rivers is once again putting on an MVP-type performance that no one will notice. 

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 14"

Look out New York. I'm just warning ya. 

(6-3) San Diego Chargers at (6-3) Denver Broncos

As much as it can this early in the season, this match-up may very well decide the AFC West. The Chargers have rebounded from their annual slow start to the meet up at 6-3 with a now struggling Broncos. If San Diego can get another big game from LaDainian Tomlinson like last week, Denver's defense won't be able to hang strong in the second half. For Josh McDaniels, he'll have to get everything and more out of probable starter Chris Simms. It doesn't look good for the Broncos this week.

Continue reading "Joe's Opening Drive: Week 11"

Aaron Rodgers (besides protecting him) is to hit the snot out of the other QB.  

(6-3) San Diego Chargers 31
(5-4) Philadelphia Eagles 23 

This was a bad week for the top of the NFC East. (But good for the Giants.) Philly stumbled but kept pace with the Cowboys. San Diego picked up another game on the Broncos, setting up a showdown this weekend. Donovan McNabb threw for 450 yards and LOST and Brian Westbrook suffered another concussion. Sit him down. 

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 10"

pping to 4-5 won’t do his job security any favors. 

(5-3) Philadelphia Eagles at (5-3) San Diego Chargers 

In another 3:15 start, Philly goes west to take on the surging Chargers. This is one of those games I’d stay away from in Vegas. Both offenses make their living off the big play. McNabb has DeSean Jackson, Jeremy Maclin and LeSean McCoy while Philip Rivers relies on Vincent Jackson, Malcolm Floyd and Darren Sproles. The Eagles’ defense will prove to be the difference if their blitzes can get to Rivers on a regular basis. If he doesn’t have time to get downfield the Chargers offense will grind to a halt. 

Continue reading "Joe's Opening Drive: Week 10"

More like a Gatorada Tsunami.

(5-3) San Diego Chargers 21
(5-4) New York Giants 20

That’s how you lose a game by making a field goal. After a late interception put him in field goal range, Tom Coughlin seemed content with simply running the ball and the clock down to about two minutes, then kicking a field goal. He didn’t even ask the third-highest paid player in the league (Eli Manning) to make a throw that could put the game out of reach for the threatening Chargers. Instead of going for the win, Coughlin settled for three points. He then watched Philip Rivers march his squad down the field with ease with no timeouts or opposition. That’s how you run a 2-minute offense.

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 9"

More like a Gatorada Tsunami.

(5-3) San Diego Chargers 21
(5-4) New York Giants 20

That’s how you lose a game by making a field goal. After a late interception put him in field goal range, Tom Coughlin seemed content with simply running the ball and the clock down to about two minutes, then kicking a field goal. He didn’t even ask the third-highest paid player in the league (Eli Manning) to make a throw that could put the game out of reach for the threatening Chargers. Instead of going for the win, Coughlin settled for three points. He then watched Philip Rivers march his squad down the field with ease with no timeouts or opposition. That’s how you run a 2-minute offense.

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 9"

Thanks for arriving late to the party, motor-mouth.

(4-3) San Diego Chargers at (5-3) New York Giants

With their typical slow start, San Diego has another hole to dig out of in the AFC West. For the second consecutive season, they’ll have to overtake the Denver Broncos to get into the playoffs. Unfortunately for Norv Turner’s boys, this isn’t last year’s Broncos. Philip Rivers faces off against the man who forced his way out of San Diego on draft day in a trade. Eli Manning’s Giants are stumbling but have the bonus of a bye next week. Tom Coughlin will have his team ready to play in front of their home crowd.

Continue reading "Joe's Opening Drive: Week 9"

Trent Edwards left the game with a concussion. 

 

(6-0) Denver Broncos 34
(2-3) San Diego Chargers 23 

A special teams bonanza! Josh McDaniels should be thanking Eddie Royal all night long for those return TD’s that single-handedly kept the Broncos in the game before halftime. Kyle Orton is 6-0. I think I wanna throw-up. Seriously though, that system fits his skill set and allows Denver’s multiple playmakers to run after the catch. The Cutler trade will probably be a success for both teams involved. 

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 6"

or Seau has un-retired again, without the Favre-like hooplah. 

(5-0) Denver Broncos at (3-2) San Diego Chargers 

Monday night is the stage for an early AFC West showdown. The undefeated Broncos are pulling away in the division, but the Chargers have a chance to bring them back a notch. Philip Rivers must push this offense and be aggressive against Denver’s surprising defense. Kyle Orton just needs to find his playmakers in space and protect the ball like he has through five games already. 

Continue reading "Joe's Opening Drive: Week 6"

re Josh McDaniels, Kyle Orton and 4-0 go from here. 

(2-2) Pittsburgh Steelers 38
(2-2) San Diego Chargers 28 

With 28 points in the final 17 minutes of play, I think the Chargers can rest a little easier about this loss. They definitely struggled for most of the game, but they ignited under Philip Rivers. Big Ben and the Steelers needed to avoid a 1-3 start to keep the AFC North race close. Maybe Rashard Mendenhall earned a few more carries for himself? 

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 4"

d come in and run all over Denver’s D, or there will be another crisis week in Big D. 

San Diego Chargers (2-1) at Pittsburgh Steelers (1-2) 

Could you have seen a legitimate chance the Super Bowl Champs would be 1-3 after the first quarter of the season? Well see it now, because the Chargers are equipped to take advantage of Troy Polamalu’s continued absence in the Steeler secondary. Philip Rivers excels in throwing the deep ball, which is where a safety’s coverage skills are tested. While San Diego’s defense isn’t at full speed, Pittsburgh’s running game will struggle for another week. Mike Tomlin will have to rely on Big Ben’s arm to get a second victory. 

Continue reading "Joe's Opening Drive: Week 4"

sastrous for the Seahawks’ season.

(2-0) Baltimore Ravens     31
(1-1) San Diego Chargers  26

Uh… don’t look now, but the Ravens have an offense. Joe Flacco isn’t just “managing” the game anymore. In San Diego, what was Norv Turner thinking with that Darren Sproles run up the middle on fourth down? Shoddy play-calling.

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 2"

The prize at stake is an early lead in the NFC West.

Baltimore Ravens (1-0) at San Diego Chargers (1-0)

San Diego barely squeaked by the Raiders, while Baltimore had trouble with the Brody Croyle-led Chiefs. Both teams need to prove they’re better than those scores would suggest. Item of note: How many carries will Tomlinson lose to Darren Sproles? My guess is quite a few, bum ankle for LT or not.

Continue reading "Joe's Opening Drive: Week 2"

Yep Trent, you're a Bill. Sorry.

San Diego Chargers 24, Oakland Raiders 20

So… LT didn’t look all that great, and it brought him a seat on the sidelines as the game was on the line in the fourth quarter. Philip Rivers looked flustered at times until his final drive when the Raiders gave him every check-down he wanted enough space to gain ten yards.

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 1"

It's that time of year again folks. Time to start predicting the unpredictable. Will any of the Denver Broncos running backs get enough carries to warrant a spot on your roster? Can Michael Turner replicate last season's performance and warrant the second overall pick in your draft? What will Terrell Owens's numbers look like now that he is in Buffalo? And how does that impact Trent Edwards value as the Bills' QB? Who am I taking if I get the first pick? What if I get stuck at the end of the first round? Do I snatch up two running backs? Or should I go one running back and also nab a top tier receiver?

Continue reading "Fantasy Footbal is Upon Us"

rsquo;t acquire another target for Manning, they might not have a choice.

Pittsburgh Steelers 35, San Diego Chargers 24

Pittsburgh was the only home team to win in the divisional round. Hom

Continue reading "Joey A's Final Drive: Divisional Round"

That’s playoff football at its finest.

San Diego Chargers at Pittsburgh Steelers, CBS, Sunday 4:45 PM (ET)

Hopefully, for the fans’ sake the conditions at Heinz Field will be more playable than during week 11, when these teams met in an ugly 11-10 Steelers victory. However, the Steelers’ number one rated defense wont care, they like any weather conditions that slow down the opposing offense. With LaDainian Tomlinson’s confirmation of a torn tendon in his groin, stand-out return man Darren Sproles will again be called on to carry the load at running back. Pro Bowl tight end Antonio Gates was still having toe and ankle problems, so Philip Rivers may be lacking the explosive weaponry to which he’s accustomed. On the opposite sideline, Ben Roethlisberger will have a full complement as Willie Parker is healthy and ready to be the feature back. It is perfect timing for Big Ben, as no one knows how well he’ll perform following the mild concussion he suffered in the regular season finale. Obviously Pittsburgh wouldn’t risk their franchise quarterback, but they’ll have to keep an eye on Ben’s tendency to hold onto the football too long. San Diego’s defense may be lacking sack machine Shawne Merriman, but coordinator Ron Rivera will still bring the blitzes to put Roethlisberger on his back. This one may not be football at it’s prettiest, but it will be as physical a match-up as you’ll see all weekend (okay, maybe not as much as Ravens v. Titans, but it’ll be close).

Continue reading "Joey A's Opening Drive: Divisional Round"

securing the victory and propelling them into a match-up with the Carolina Panthers next weekend.

San Diego Chargers 23, Indianapolis Colts 17

Well, I did say Darren Sproles would be the difference-maker for San Diego. I hate being right. Sproles totaled 105 yards on 22 carries with two touchdowns as he filled in for the ailing LaDainian Tomlinson, who sat out for most of the game after trying to gut it out early. San Diego’s defense was the surprise, holding the potent Colts offense to only 17 points through four quarters and overtime (where Peyton Manning never saw the ball). Despite two turnovers, the Chargers rallied with 31 seconds left to hit an over-time forcing field goal, careful not to leave too much time for Manning to return the favor. After winning the coin toss, Philip Rivers led his team on an eleven play, 75 yard drive that soaked up over six minutes of clock and ended on a 22-yard Sproles romp to the end zone. Conversely, Manning had to shoulder the entire load, as the Colt backfield only managed 64 yards on the ground. It was too much to ask even of Manning, who in a solid effort could not overcome the lack of balance on offense. The field position battle also played an integral role in Indy’s demise, as Charger punter Matt Scifres booted all six of his punts inside the twenty yard line, putting even more pressure on Manning before he even stepped back on the field. The loss provides a somber ending to a character building season for Tony Dungy’s team while also offering more evidence to the possible moniker of “underachievers.” Norv Turner’s Chargers are playing their best football at the right time, but will have a heck of a challenge going into Heinz Field against the Steelers on Sunday.

Continue reading "Joey A's Final Drive: Wild Card Weekend"

the Bengals and 49ers); they’ll need some help to make it into January.

Atlanta Falcons 22, San Diego Chargers 16

Anyone who predicted that the Atlanta Falcons would be 8-4 with a rookie head coach and a rookie quarterback is either a certifiable genius or an authentic wacko. Matt Ryan is out-performing even the loftiest of expectations that come with being picked number three overall. On the flip side, the

Continue reading "Joey A's Final Drive: Week 13"

make a go of it the Redskins will be beaten before the game even starts.

Atlanta Falcons (7-4) at San Diego Chargers (4-7)

Among a glut of improved teams in the NFC, the Falcons are without a doubt the biggest surprise. Being a surprise doesn’t have to be the whole story in 2008 though, as Atlanta still has a chance at the division as well as a possible wildcard spot. Matt Ryan will get strong consideration for Rookie of the Year, and Michael Turner may have been the best free agent signing of the off-season. Turner departed the Chargers, who are fighting for their lives in a less-than-stellar AFC West. A loss would ensure San Diego goes no better than .500, but with a strong possibility to end up with a losing record. That won’t be enough for a team with all this supposed “talent.”

Continue reading "Joey A's Opening Drive: Week 13"

Jake Delhomme is now unquestionably the worst quarterback in the division.

Indianapolis Colts 23, San Diego Chargers 20

Including the Chargers, the Colts don’t face a team with a winn

Continue reading "Joey A's Final Drive: Week Twelve"

rom tailback Michael Turner if they have a hope to beat the Panthers.

Indianapolis Colts (6-4) at San Diego Chargers (4-6)

On a three-game winning streak, Peyton Manning and the Colts may finally have righted the ship. Luckily, the rest of the AFC is sagging, so every non-division leader looking for a wild-card berth is also 6-4. The Colts are getting healthy at the right time, and after the Chargers they face Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Detroit, a stretch of teams that have only have 5 wins combined. Things are looking up for Tony Dungy and his crew.

Continue reading "Joey A's NFL Week Twelve Preview"

lty in the closing weeks, but in a drooping AFC, 10 wins will get you in.

Pittsburgh Steelers 11, San Diego Chargers 10

Despite a suspicious 13 penalties for 115 yards (San Diego had one for 5 yards), the Pittsburgh Steelers escaped snowy Heinz Field with a win. They did it with old fashioned Steeler football: efficient quarterback play, establishing the run, and hard-nosed defense. With two Philip Rivers interceptions and 36+ minutes in time of possession, this should have been a wider margin of victory. Speaking of, WHY did they even bother calling back Polamalu’s touchdown? The Refs for this one have since come and out said they botched the call, but they’re lucky it didn’t decide the outcome.

Continue reading "Joey A's Final Drive: Week Eleven"

re, and will be a valuable pick-up in the off-season if the Bucs don’t retain his services.

San Diego Chargers (4-5) at Pittsburgh Steelers (6-3)

The Chargers struggled to defeat the lowly Chiefs, needing a defensive stop on a two-point conversion to secure the win. LaDainian Tomlinson’s production is part of the reason, as he’s straining to reach mediocre statistics. Philip Rivers continues his fantastic yet overlooked season, keeping his team within striking distance of first place Denver.

Continue reading "Joey A's NFL Week Eleven Preview"

San Diego Chargers (3-4) at New Orleans Saints (3-4)

San Diego was man-handled by the Bills last week, so they’re due for an exciting win. The problem is, so are the Saints. These are two of the most unpredictable teams in the league, and both are coming off bad losses. The Chargers aren’t making up any ground on the faltering Broncos, and sooner than later the frustration will take its toll on them. L.T.’s toe injury just hasn’t gone away, and it’s causing their running game to suffer tremendously. Philip Rivers leads the league in touchdowns at 16 and passer rating at 108.5, but his spectacular season is overshadowed by the Chargers’ incongruity.  San Diego won’t be able to keep trading off wins and losses, so getting back to .500 is monumental going into the second half of the year.

Continue reading "Joey A's NFL Week Eight Preview"

For everyone else, it’s a crap-shoot. Now onto week seven in the NFL:

Buffalo Bills 24, San Diego Chargers 14

Okay, now we all should know the Buffalo Bills are as good as advertised. Trent Edwards is the best quarterback in the NFL that no one’s talking about. Edwards completed a Brady-like 25 of his 30 pass attempts, and was protected by an offensive line that allowed no sacks. That same line pushed the Chargers around for running backs Fred Jackson and Marshawn Lynch who combined for a workmen-like 28 carries for 103 yards. The Bills offense never turned the ball over while the Bills defense took it away three times. As long as Trent is upright and health, the Bills will contend for the division title this season.

Continue reading "Joey A's Final Drive: Week 7"

Week seven in the NFL will continue separating the good from the simply mediocre.

San Diego Chargers (3-3) at Buffalo Bills (4-1)

The Chargers of years past were predominantly designed to hand-off to L.T. and keep their quarterbacks from making too many throws. This year’s Chargers, with Tomlinson’s injury slowing him down, are in a “throw first, run later” mindset. It worked last week, as San Diego demolished New England. Philip Rivers has been successful without his number one receiver in Chris Chambers, who hasn’t practiced since spraining his ankle in their October fifth loss to Miami. Stepping up to the plate, Vincent Jackson and Malcolm Floyd are frequently getting open downfield and stretching the defense. Chambers won’t need to rush back with the way the Super Chargers are lighting up scoreboards as of late.

Continue reading "Joey A's NFL Week Seven Preview"

ohnson should be able to put up points, but there may be too many injures for Dallas to overcome.

San Diego Chargers 30, New England Patriots 10

This game clearly revealed these teams’ true identities. San Diego is a talented team on both sides of the ball, and they excel at the big play. New England is old on defense, and Matt Cassel is no Tom Brady. Philip Rivers hit Vincent Jackson 48 yards deep on the first play from scrimmage and the Chargers never looked back. They dominated this game, and never was it more evident than their defensive goal line stand as the Patriots were attempting to get the game within one score. Even without a dominant LaDainian Tomlinson rushing performance, the Chargers had no problem pulling themselves back up to .500, only one game behind the division leading Denver Broncos. Charger defensive tackle Jamal Williams penetrated the Patriot offensive line all night, wreaking havoc in the backfield on running plays as well as on Cassel drop-backs. New England’s secondary was exposed as corner Deltha O’Neal was a favorite victim of Philip Rivers’ precise passing. Bill Belichick better figure out his quarterback situation or his Patriots may not even sniff the postseason.

Continue reading "Joey A's Final Drive: Week 5"

cked quarterback in the league will have another painful afternoon.

New England Patriots (3-1) at San Diego Chargers (2-3)

Who knows what we’re going to see from these teams on Sunday

Continue reading "Joey A's NFL Week Six Preview"

en Bay could be in trouble, and it has nothing to do with missing Brett Favre.

Miami Dolphins 17, San Diego Chargers 10

The team that won one game all of last season has beaten both participants of the last AFC Championship. Miami’s turnaround under Tony Sparano is another great example of parity in the NFL. They won’t win the AFC East, but they’ll hover around .500 for a bulk of the season in my eyes. Their “single wing” offense is successful for another week as Ronnie Brown seems to baffle defenses when he goes under center. Chad Pennington simply plays efficient football, which is exactly what this team needs to have success. San Diego continued its annual “start slow and scare the pundits who picked us to go to the Super Bowl” tradition by dropping to 2-3 behind their division rival Broncos who lead at 4-1. LaDainian Tomlinson has been slowed by an injured toe and horrible offensive line play. Back-up Darren Sproles is making a name for himself, becoming the next L.T. backup to eventually leave for a starting job somewhere else. San Diego needs to rebound like they did last year, or it’ll be another season of disappointment for Charger faithful.

Continue reading "Joey A's Final Drive: Week 5"

ball, as Matt Cassel isn’t going to attempt thirty-five passes from the shotgun formation.

San Diego Chargers (0-1) at Denver Broncos (1-0)

The Chargers sure do like to make things hard on themselves. They are notorious slow starters. Denver wasted no time last Monday as Jay Cutler picked apart a pitiful Raiders defense. With no Shawne Merriman to rush the passer, Cutler should have all the time he needs to attack an average San Diego secondary in this division match-up.

Continue reading "Joey A's NFL Week Two Preview"

Since I'm still finding a more thoroughgoing blog voice re Lakers, I thought I'd post here my reply to Kareem's informative and enjoyable post off nba.com:

Kareem, you will always be my all-time favorite Laker. The grace, dignity, and extraordinary numbers you posted over your long distinguished career remain nonpareil. And the multi-champ team with you and Magic and Worthy, et al remains my fave too.

Continue reading "KAREEM POST"

I have never claimed to be an expert when it comes to predicting outcomes of football games, although last year I nearly predicted the exact final score of the Super Bowl while hitting on seven of my nine prop bets. (My prediction was 26-17, the final was 29-17.) For whatever reason I had a very good feel for that game. This year's Super Bowl, however, remains a mystery to me. Part of the reason I am having trouble getting a good feel for this game is that I am a bitter Jets fan and I can't stand either team. I'm finding it difficult to put my personal feelings aside and look at the game objectively. I think right now I am as close to objectivity as I am going to get, and with that being said, here is my official Super Bowl XLII prediction.

Continue reading "Super Bowl XLII Prediction"

I wasn’t very excited about Norv Turner, but he proved me wrong by taking the San Diego Chargers almost there this season. This tells me he wasn’t all bad. But asking Lane Kiffin

Continue reading "The Los Angeles Raiders"

knew they could do it! They had their number earlier in the year and they did it again today! The San Diego Chargers upset the Indianapolis Colts in a 28-24 victory that came down to the wire at the RCA Dome. Shawne Merriman and Antonio Cromartie were key in the defense against Peyton Manning, both making big plays when it really counted. I was truly worried when LaDainian Tomlinson went out of the game and even more pessimistic when Philip Rivers had to be sidelined – but the rest of the team made me a believer! I take back every less than flattering statement I have ever uttered about Norv Turner!  He really is an NFL coach that deserves respect.  

Continue reading "Go Bolts!"

who I will be rooting for next week for sure (remaining season afterward to be determined):

Go San Diego Chargers! This is my number one choice of course, being a Southern California native. LaDainian Tomlinson is not only remarkable, but a role model with his quiet confidence. You never see him trash talking, he simply does his job and does it well! I am fully allowed to root for them as they were once the Los Angeles Chargers and I actually lived in Del Mar for a period. Also, I have been to Seau’s and had a cigar (alright, he isn’t there anymore but that’s not the point)!

Continue reading "Bandwagon Season!"

There is no hope from my San Diego Chargers either…huuuuhhhmmmmm

Go Bucs!

Continue reading "My Guilty Pleasure"