Bolts & Dolts: San Diego Chargers at New York Giants
by John Gennaro on Nov 9, 2009 5:41 AM PST
in Bolts & Dolts
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PrintHello friends. Look, I made it out of Giants Stadium alive!
I couldn't be happier at this moment. The first San Diego Chargers game I see in person in years, and it turns into an incredible win that's capped with a late TD that happened right in front of me. The sun was shinin' on me yesterday.
So now that I've gotten home, "slept it off" and watched the game on television.....let's get to quite possibly the longest edition of "Bolts & Dolts" ever.
Bolts
Offense
Philip Rivers - 24/36, 209 yds, 3 TD, 2 INT. Just barely. Two plays put him in the Bolts category. One, obviously, was the game-winning touchdown pass to Vincent Jackson. The second happened right before that, when Rivers saw a blitz coming and audibled to a Darren Sproles pass that picked up 21 yards in the flash of a eye. Outside of the last drive, Philip had a poor game by his usual standards. Throwing twice into double-coverage (and getting picked both times) is not his style and I don't expect to see it again.
Vincent Jackson - 5 catches, 58 yds, 2 TD. At this point, VJ should be in the MVP conversation. He has been that dominant in every single game. I think his 3 non-TD catches yesterday were all for first downs. Also, he had a good game against fantastic coverage from Corey Webster all night. I don't think there's another receiver in the league that has that kind of game against a CB playing that well.
Brandyn Dombrowski. Anyone want to guess why? If you're planning on re-watching the game, pay close attention when the ref is calling defensive pass interference on Corey Webster in the end zone. You'll see Dombrowski waiting patiently behind the ref the entire time. The second the ref turns around, Brandyn clearly symbols and says "I'm an eligible receiver" and the ref gives him a thumbs up. Fantastic job, Brandyn.
Defense
Ron Rivera. I've been guilty of bashing Rivera quite a bit this season. This game, I will eat my crow and give him praise. He obviously came in with a game plan to stop the run and stop the big plays in the passing game. Well, there was the occasional gash in the running game but there were just as many stops on 2nd & 2 or 3rd & 1. Travis Johnson is proving to be a valuable linemen in those situations, by the way. Anyways, there was plenty of blitzing that kept Eli Manning running around outside of the pocket more often than he would've liked and the Giants' passing game had only one play that went for 20+ yards (and that was a WR screen to Hakeem Nicks for 29 yards). The defense was good enough on this day, and a big reason for that was Rivera's excellent play call.
Shawne Merriman - 3 tackles, 2 sacks. This doesn't even tell the whole story. Merriman had his hands on Eli close to 10 times during the game. He was incredibly disruptive, and both of his sacks came on huge 3rd down players late in the 4th quarter. Ladies and gentlemen, "Lights Out" is back.
Shaun Phillips - 8 tackles, 1 sack. Wow. I had almost forgotten what an amazing weapon Phillips is when he's not being double-teamed on every play. He was everywhere during the game. Those short run-stops that ended New York's drives? On just about every one of them you can see Phillips either making the tackle or screwing everything up along NY's offensive line by beating his man easily. He also played well in coverage (the Kevin Boss TD was not his fault) and......(take this with a grain of salt because it's just one game)......Shaun acted like the leader of the defense. 5 sacks in 3 games is no joke. Phillips is currently playing out of his mind and I couldn't be happier with his game last night.
Eric Weddle - 9 tackles. Where did that sledgehammer come from? Early in the game I was pretty sure he gave Boss a concussion, and during the Giants last possession he damn near killed Steve Smith. As usual, Weddle seemed to be around the ball on every single play. Not as usual, he was making it really scary for Giants receivers to go over the middle. Unreal game from him.
Luis Castillo - 1 tackle. Want to know why Eli Manning was constantly running out of a shrinking pocket? That would be Castillo. He spent all night destroying double-teams and chasing Eli Manning right into the hands of the Chargers OLBs. The stats aren't there, but he reminded me of Jamal Williams last night. I think this may be Castillo's best season yet and yesterday's game was probably his best this year.
Special Teams
Darren Sproles. I'm not going to put stats up because they don't matter for why he got the Bolt. He gets the Bolt because the Giants were willing to sacrifice great field position just to have him not touch the ball. The Chargers average starting position was on their own 32 yard line. If you take out the Giants interceptions, their starting position was on their own 21 yard line. That's a big swing, and that had everything to do with Sproles and......
Mike Scifres. 3 of his 5 punts pinned the Giants inside their own 20 yard line. It would've been 4 of 5 if Mike Tolbert hadn't been called for holding. After that call, Scifres' punt was downed at the Giants 21 yard line. He was consistent, accurate and had the big booming leg when he needed it. Between him, Merriman and Phillips, it's like the Chargers traded for players from the 2007 Bolts team mid-season.
Miscellaneous
Chargers fans. There were a ton of Bolts fans for a game across the country from San Diego. There was probably one Chargers fan for every 5 Giants fans. Also, with the exception of my personal bodyguard/chauffeur, they were all quite well-behaved. Considering how drunk and angry the Giants fans were (and rightfully so), it was surprising to only see one fight during the game.
Clip Show. He couldn't have been a better guest. We had a ball drinking and watching the game together. Even after one game, I consider him a friend and will definitely try to catch a Chargers game with him in San Diego. Also, he came through with a digital camera after I left mine at home (not surprisingly). He should have a picture-laden FanPost up here sometime this week after he gets home and spends some quality time with his baby girl.
Giants fans. Not at all what I was warned about. I had to take the occasional heckle, but I'd be disappointed if it didn't happen. Giants fans were nice and very accommodating. Even the one my friend was badgering all game didn't do anything but throw an empty soda bottle after the game. Well played, Giants fans. Also, when the Giants took the lead, those NY fans were loud. Louder than I've ever heard it at Qualcomm. So loud I couldn't talk to Clip Show right next to me. I hope the new stadium they're building next door is that loud. Those fans deserve it.
Referees. The first Chargers game in years where I wasn't able to pick out one bad call. Usually, whether it's for or against the Chargers, there's one call where the announcers look at the replay and say "I have no idea what he saw there." Not the case in this game. Although the penalties were called heavily in the Chargers favor, every penalty was clearly backed up when watching the replay. A solidly-called game.
Norv Turner. I think each year, as the team finally starts to take shape, Norv lightens up a bit. Before that it's like he's stoic and....almost nervous. Yesterday he was pumping his fist, laughing and hugging LT. It's not too much emotion, but it's something and it let's the players know that he's invested in the team with them. I've noticed that in December he always seems to wear his heart on his sleeve a little more, and I saw that from him yesterday. It's a great sign. Oh, and he also called a fantastic game as the offensive coordinator.
Dolts
Offense
LaDainian Tomlinson - 12 carries, 22 rush yds, 2 catches, 8 rec yds. The plan for this game was simple. The Chargers wanted to get up early to try and take away the Giants rushing game. They did that, and at half time (losing the time of possession battle 2-to-1) it seemed they decided to try to work the clock and help out their tired, banged-up defense by running Tomlinson a lot. It didn't work. As usual, with the exception of one or two decent looking runs, LT looked very astute at taking the handoff and falling forward for 2 yards. His 1.8 yards per carry shows that he couldn't even do that every time.
Why does LT always seem to be falling down? The good RBs around the league have fantastic balance. You have to wrap them up and bring them down because you're sure as hell not knocking them over. Even Sproles is like that. With LT, it seems like he could be tackled by a stiff wind. Half of the time he's going down after bumping into one of his offensive linemen. I think his days of bursting through the arm tackles at the line of scrimmage are behind him. To get more than 3 yards on a carry, he needs a BIG open hole to run through.
Antonio Gates - 5 catches, 67 yards. I very nearly didn't make him a Dolt. He had a very good day, and would've been a Bolt if it weren't for those two drops. After watching the game on tv though, I couldn't let him go. Those were two very easy catches, one for a huge play and the other for a third down conversion, that he just lost because he didn't look the ball into his hands before trying to make a play. That's the type of "focus" play that he's known for making. I hope, and I don't think it's just wishful thinking, this is his last time as a Dolt.
Defense
There are no defensive Dolts this week.
Special Teams
There are no special teams Dolts this week.
Miscellaneous
Chris Chambers - 3 catches, 70 yds, 2 TD. This guy is apparently only good for the second half of seasons in which he switches teams. Seriously though, a 54 yard catch? Catches 3 of the 4 balls thrown at him? That doesn't sound like the Chris Chambers I remember.
With a Pittsburgh victory tonight, the Chargers are one-game behind the Broncos with a game against them in two weeks. I'd call that "controlling our own destiny". Go Steelers. (We'll be doing an open thread here tonight during the game.)
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1:5 Charger to Giant fan ratio?
that’s incredible
by LJbumfool on Nov 9, 2009 6:07 AM PST reply actions
Maybe 1:10? Maybe somewhere in between the two. Still, I was expecting to see a handful of Bolts fans and I saw tons.
"I did not invent the wheel, I was the crooked spoke adjacent." - Aesop Rock
When the Chargers scored the TD at the end
I was shocked at how loud it was at the stadium. Not like super loud, but I expected complete silence and I instead heard a low roar. Of course some of that could’ve been Giants fans crying out in pain, but whatever.
hey if it was better than 1:100
I’m damn proud
by LJbumfool on Nov 9, 2009 11:16 AM PST up reply actions
Wow. Did they travel back east or do they live there?
It’d be so hard to be a Charger fan on the East coast. Impressive!
33 Wins. Yeah, I said it.
A lot of east coasters. It’s the only Chargers game on the east coast this year, so I’m sure that brought in some folks.
"I did not invent the wheel, I was the crooked spoke adjacent." - Aesop Rock
by John Gennaro on Nov 10, 2009 2:10 AM PST up reply actions
Im a Charger fan on the East coast.
I’m all alone in the fan base here, everyone around me is a Steelers or Titans fan (im from Virginia) I’m going to be at the Titans game on Christmas day. Is anyone else going? Maybe we could hang out and pick on people wearing Kerry Collins jerseys.
When lightning strikes, horses run.
Great win! still not what I expected
I still see huge problems with middle-of-the-field coverage on defense. Linebackers and safeties alike can’t cover receivers or tight ends man to man. That needs to be addressed. And then there’s our running game. Rivers doesn’t even finish turning around to hand the ball off and there are linemen and linebackers just waiting for Tomlinson to run into their open arms. This O line needs to improve. They are only decent in pass protection. I’m glad the pass rush is back. Rivera has made a believer out of me, but after the wild frog made an appearance last week I hoped to see it Sunday. Glad the Football world saw the truth behind the infamous draft though. Rivers > Manning!
Go Bolts!!!
by Superduperboltman on Nov 9, 2009 6:53 AM PST reply actions
I disagree
I still see huge problems with middle-of-the-field coverage on defense. Linebackers and safeties alike can’t cover receivers or tight ends man to man. That needs to be addressed.
I think this is on-purpose. You can’t cover every part of the field equally. I think they stress covering down-field and not giving up big plays, which leaves check-down guys open about 5 yards in front of the line of scrimmage in the middle. That’s the best place to leave open because the ball can be knocked down, the receiver can be hit hard from behind when catching it, and there’s tacklers coming from both sides to prevent any big runs after the catch.
The receivers and TEs aren’t getting hue plays down the center of the field. They’re getting the check-down catches for a handful of yards because the big plays are taken.
This O line needs to improve. They are only decent in pass protection
I saw a handful of plays in yesterday’s game where the offensive line did a fine job at blocking for the run (mostly on the left side of the line), but LT fell down or only got a couple of yards before tacklers were on top of him. I think Phil Simms even said, at the end of a 3 yard run, “That’s the type of play that, a few years ago, LT would’ve taken a long way.” He was absolutely right.
There’s something to be said for the blockers believing in their effort. For instance, if I’m an offensive lineman and I think that me putting in 100% effort and risking injury will possibly turn into a 20+ yard run with the play we just called, I’m doing it. If instead I think there’s a 50-50 shot of even getting 10 yards, I’ll give 90% and protect my body. And I’m not saying me personally, I’m saying that professional o-linemen have admitted that this is the case. You block better and stronger when you believe in the guy carrying the football.
I don’t think anyone believes in LT right now, and when the o-line does everything in their power to open up a hole for him to run through it never turns into a big play. This is probably at least part of the reason Sproles does a little better than LT when he gets his carries. The o-linemen are thinking “one big block and this could go for six.”
"I did not invent the wheel, I was the crooked spoke adjacent." - Aesop Rock
by John Gennaro on Nov 9, 2009 7:29 AM PST up reply actions 2 recs
Agree with your LT thoughts
Elite backs make plays. When there is no hole they can turn it into a small gain and when they are given a hole they make a big play. Not every big run by a top RB is because there was a huge hole to run through, they make guys miss, straight arm a guy, or break a tackle. Right now L.T. is doing nothing, he gets what is there (which admitedly usually isn’t much) and then goes down.
by JeromeB on Nov 9, 2009 8:40 AM PST up reply actions 1 recs
Were people thinking LT could be an "elite" back this year?
Personally, I was just hoping he’d be an above average back. That would have justified not using a top pick on a RB. I refuse to believe that anyone in the Chargers organization ever believed that LT would approach “elite” this year.
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
by Wonko on Nov 9, 2009 10:19 AM PST up reply actions 1 recs
Agreed.
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Bolts From The Blue "There’s a gleam men. Let’s go get the gleam! Focus and Finish!!! One play at a time!!! Let's Go!!!"
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by Sam (sdsuaztec4) on Nov 9, 2009 10:27 AM PST up reply actions
Yeah you're right.
HUSTLE MADE ENT. NEW TRACK...CHECK FOR IT...NOTHING BUT THAT KILLA CALI FIRE FO SHO!!! http://www.myspace.com/jayoh1ne
There were plenty
of people posting before the season started who thought that he would have a big year. I remember one post in particular where the person asked for people to name 10 backs that they thought were better than LT, I was the only person who gave him the list of 10.
“Elite” probably was a poor choice of words however. Even decent backs make something happen when they are given a little room. To me he has played well below what most people expected of him before the season started.
I agree
To a certain extent. I really only saw one play where I thought that a more agile back would make a better play and that was one where he tripped as he made it through the hole. That being said, a more physical back may have turned some of those 1 or 2 yard runs into 3 or 4. But, I still don’t see the blocking that I see other good or elite backs get. I watched Michael Turner last Monday night. I saw him make 1 play where his physicality gave him an advantage that LT wouldn’t have, but every other big play came from the OLine giving him room to run. I pretty much saw the same thing with Marion Barber and the Cowboys offensive line.
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
by Wonko on Nov 9, 2009 10:49 AM PST up reply actions 1 recs
In no way is the Chargers O Line
making it easy for LT, they are not giving him a lot of room. But over the long haul turning 1 or 2 yard runs into 3 or 4 yard runs makes a big difference.
I'm still hoping
he can be an above-average back which might be naive of me.
I think his ankle injury has effected his balance (ankle ligament injuries are notorious for doing this, but a pretty complete recovery is possible, it just takes time and correct rehab – of course time is an issue at the moment, but this is the kind of recovery that can occur in-season).
A few more points: Canty and Boley were back for this game, Sproles was stuffed 5 of the 6 times he got the ball in offense (every time he got the ball at or behind the line of scrimmage, for a combined total of 2 yards gained). And perhaps most importantly, I’m willing to wait until Hardwick settles back and helps the O-line create some better opportunities.
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LT has become Eddie George
Sniff As much as I hate to see it, dude has hit the proverbial wall. Everytime he takes a handoff now he takes two steps and looks for somewhere to fall down. What happened to his balance?
I did like that play where they motioned him out wide and threw him a screen pass. I saw a flash of the old LT, jump cut and all.
Alas, it was a mirage. Never again will we see the speed and power of the guy he used to be.
I don't know whether I prefer Astroturf to grass. I never smoked Astroturf.
JOE NAMATH
Gee, if I'm thinking of the same play...
… I’d say that’s an example of how LT’s lost it. The one where he had to jump up and catch the ball like he was grabbing a rebound… and then he stumbled? I thought he had re-sprained his ankle or something.
But I do agree that it’s a sad reality. Will the Chargers just please give Michael Bennett one chance in one game this year??
by Andy (allfield) on Nov 9, 2009 10:52 AM PST up reply actions
Different play
You’re thinking of the screen. That play wasn’t the best for LT or Rivers.
The one he’s talking about had LT line up as a WR (and nobody covered him), and then he didn’t move when the ball was snapped. He just turned toward Rivers and became the check-down receiver.
"I did not invent the wheel, I was the crooked spoke adjacent." - Aesop Rock
by John Gennaro on Nov 9, 2009 10:55 AM PST up reply actions
I wouldn't classify Turner as a bolt.
He had some nice moments, but plenty of “WTF?” playcalls to keep me from considering him a bolt.
We're boned.
by Zach (maestro876) on Nov 9, 2009 7:49 AM PST reply actions 1 recs
Can you name a specific one besides the VJ reverse?
"I did not invent the wheel, I was the crooked spoke adjacent." - Aesop Rock
I didn't even mind the reverse
Our offense rarely goes misdirection when running; our run game tends to be too predictable. The Giants defense just did a great job of staying with their assignments. I thought Norv was made good calls, a great challenge and provided excellent clock management at the end of the game. The team appeared fired up and ended up with a good win on the road. He did a good job of taking what New York was giving him, and he didn’t stick with the run when it was clear that was just a brick wall. In the close fourth quarter games, Turner is now 2-1 with wins against the Giants and Raiders and the loss against the Ravens. We’re at 5-3 now, if we do that the second half we end up 10-6, likely good enough for a wild card.
"Football is a physical sport, sometimes you have a disagreement on what's going on, and you have a discussion about it." Kris Dielman
by Brian (DaBolts) on Nov 9, 2009 8:17 AM PST up reply actions 1 recs
I agree, but I'll say this....
misdirection in the running game is only effective when the RB has the wheels to run away from the defense once they’ve realized they’re on the wrong side of the field.
"I did not invent the wheel, I was the crooked spoke adjacent." - Aesop Rock
I'm disappointed in our short-range passing game.
I thought screen-passes might be the answer for this team, but whenever a guy catches the ball in the backfield, it seems there’s always a defender waiting to bring him down at/behind scrimmage.
by Neoplatonist Bolthead on Nov 9, 2009 9:10 AM PST up reply actions
We've done so many RB screens in the past that teams are looking for it.
The successful screens I’ve seen this year have been to guys like Gates/Naanee.
by SJO on Nov 9, 2009 4:13 PM PST up reply actions
I love that misdirection one they throw to Gates. They’ve done it twice now and he was just as wide open the second time.
Bolts from the Blue // "Game over." - Jamal Williams
Bloody Elbow // "Every normal man must be tempted at times to spit upon his hands, hoist the black flag, and begin slitting throats." - H.L. Mencken
by Richard Wade on Nov 9, 2009 4:36 PM PST up reply actions 1 recs
It’s a great thing that the defense is looking for the screen on every play now. It holds their pass-rush back, which is exactly the point.
"I did not invent the wheel, I was the crooked spoke adjacent." - Aesop Rock
by John Gennaro on Nov 10, 2009 2:11 AM PST up reply actions 1 recs
Good point.
Bolts from the Blue // "Game over." - Jamal Williams
Bloody Elbow // "Every normal man must be tempted at times to spit upon his hands, hoist the black flag, and begin slitting throats." - H.L. Mencken
by Richard Wade on Nov 10, 2009 11:05 AM PST up reply actions
They run nothing but misdirection
I love the counter style action, but that is (almost) the only play being run lately. None of the lineman has been proving very adept at pulling and getting a crushing block this year, and the rb’s are getting hit at or behind the line of scrimmage. The positives about Clary are supposedly that he is strong and had classic size. Same with Vasquez, I’d like to see them do some drive blocking or run some stretch plays once in a while without all the pulls and traps. They might only get two yards but it would get these lineman thinking less and just trying to be physical. Who knows, laying the wood without having to worry about all the timing and footwork might build their confidence to where the counter-tre action starts working again.
by flounder2 on Nov 9, 2009 11:56 AM PST up reply actions 1 recs
The series where we went backwards.
We're boned.
by Zach (maestro876) on Nov 9, 2009 9:24 AM PST up reply actions
That's the only one that I would put that designation on
All in all, I thought it was a good offensive game plan. We tried to run enough to keep the Giants’ D honest, but didn’t waste time with it when it wasn’t working.
If the thunder don't get ya then the lightning will!!
Robert Hunter
by Buck Melanoma on Nov 9, 2009 4:02 PM PST up reply actions
I think that was Norv's best coached game of his Chargers career.
And that’s probably more of a knock at his previous bad clock management and poor decisions on replay challenges than it is a credit to his performance yesterday.
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
I think it’s a credit to both. His clock management and challenges were masterful yesterday.
Also, has anyone noticed that the team no longer starts off the game flat? If we ripped Norv for it, he deserves credit for fixing the issue.
"I did not invent the wheel, I was the crooked spoke adjacent." - Aesop Rock
by John Gennaro on Nov 9, 2009 10:23 AM PST up reply actions 1 recs
They started passing first to set up the run
Like many on this blog have been screaming for all year
I don't know whether I prefer Astroturf to grass. I never smoked Astroturf.
JOE NAMATH
Like I said in another thread
They seem to be learning their weaknesses and covering them up as best they can. I don’t blame them for earlier in the year trying to figure out if their running game was something they could count on.
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
Instead of calling it "covering up their weaknesses"
I prefer to think of it as playing to their strengths.
I don't know whether I prefer Astroturf to grass. I never smoked Astroturf.
JOE NAMATH
he deserves a bolt
the last few minutes were great playcalling. moreoever, norv didn’t burn a timeout to allow the defense to get to nickel/dime packages OR to allow the defense to rest (this in my opinion allowed for the VJ touchdown at the end.
I bomb atomically, Socrates' philosophies
and hypothesis can't define how I be droppin these
mockeries, lyrically perform armed robbery
Flee with the lottery, possibly they spotted me
Battle-scarred shogun, explosion when my pen hits
tremendous, ultra-violet shine blind forensics
by tonik on Nov 9, 2009 4:07 PM PST up reply actions 1 recs
Controlling our own destiny
With a Pittsburgh victory tonight, the Chargers are one-game behind the Broncos with a game against them in two weeks.
John, I recall diagramming this out when everyone was freaking out because the season was “over” three weeks ago.
Go Steelers…this week.
by flounder2 on Nov 9, 2009 8:14 AM PST reply actions 1 recs
Props
Yes, I do remember you and others mapping things out — dare I say — optimistically. And even some had this Giants game being a loss. Kudos to you guys calming people like me down and talking us in from the ledge.
However, I caution people against taking certain games in the future for granted. Some games that seem like “easy wins” now are going to look much harder by the time they roll around. Tennessee, for example.
by Andy (allfield) on Nov 9, 2009 10:58 AM PST up reply actions
Yup
I wish we could have played Tennessee 3 weeks ago. Same goes for Dallas. I’m even wondering if that Redskins game will look different in 8 weeks. However, I’m hoping that Bengals game will look different, but in a good way.
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
Impressed with Siler
I am not saying that he deserved a Bolt and he seems a little limited in his ability to play the pass, but he has taken advantage of the recent injuries to Burnett and Dobbins. He has played with some fire and intensity (something the defense needed) and I hope that even when they return he can somehow stay in the rotation and gets some time. Maybe Burnett is better suited to just play on passing downs as he did in Dallas.
by JeromeB on Nov 9, 2009 8:45 AM PST reply actions 1 recs
While I like his intensity
Jacobs made Siler look absolutely terrible more than once in the first quarter. They were running right at him.
"I did not invent the wheel, I was the crooked spoke adjacent." - Aesop Rock
made tackles
He might have gave some yards up, but he didn’t wiff on tackles and allow the big play. This D is bend-don’t-break, they make people drive the field and they will win some games.
Here's something interesting.
If the season ended today, we’d be the final wild card team in the playoffs. The Steelers would be the 5th seed at 5-2 (even if they lose tonight and drop to 5-3 they’d still have the tie-breaker over us).After that, though, is the San Diego Chargers at 5-3. We’re ahead of the Jets (4-4), Ravens (4-4), and Texans (5-4).
What we need to do for the rest of the season is root for the Steelers to win the AFC North, and the Bengals to start losing games, and then we have to beat them in December.
We're boned.
by Zach (maestro876) on Nov 9, 2009 9:04 AM PST reply actions
Maaybe...
If we beat Denver and KC and go into December with 7 or 8 wins, we could easily win the division. Then we’d really want to take out Cincy, win at least as many games as they do, and for them to take Pittsburgh down. Then we wouldn’t have to go to Pittsburgh in January, and instead we’d be competing for a bye.
Wouldn’t that be great? I have visions of Cincy flying here for the AFCC to lose 27-7 in 70º weather (68 with windchill). We could call it the “Air Conditioned Bowl”!
by Neoplatonist Bolthead on Nov 9, 2009 9:15 AM PST up reply actions
I'm operating under the assumption
that we aren’t going to win the division. So in that case, we want the 2nd place team in the AFC North to be someone we have a better record than or a tie-breaker over.
We're boned.
by Zach (maestro876) on Nov 9, 2009 9:23 AM PST up reply actions
Or
maybe we (the chargers) should just try to keep winning our games. If we win enough games, everything else will take care of itself.
I totally agree.
Just talking, is all.
We're boned.
by Zach (maestro876) on Nov 9, 2009 9:32 AM PST up reply actions
I was just joking around
I like reading the scenarios that are posted. They are fun to read and I don’t have to figure them out for myself if they are posted.
That’s all well and good for the team, but all we can do is root for the best case scenario.
Bolts from the Blue // "Game over." - Jamal Williams
Bloody Elbow // "Every normal man must be tempted at times to spit upon his hands, hoist the black flag, and begin slitting throats." - H.L. Mencken
by Richard Wade on Nov 9, 2009 11:46 AM PST up reply actions
Rooting for the Chargers to win
or rooting for the best case scenario, we have no control over either. But both are fun.
That was my point. There’s no reason for us not to look at every game on the schedule and try to figure out who we’d be better off seeing get the win.
Bolts from the Blue // "Game over." - Jamal Williams
Bloody Elbow // "Every normal man must be tempted at times to spit upon his hands, hoist the black flag, and begin slitting throats." - H.L. Mencken
by Richard Wade on Nov 9, 2009 12:02 PM PST up reply actions
Another thing I wanted to point out
Philip is becoming one of those quarterbacks who people say, “You can’t give him a second chance with the ball.” Just like Manning and Brady, he’s becoming known as one of the most dangerous, clutch quarterbacks in football.
We're boned.
by Zach (maestro876) on Nov 9, 2009 9:15 AM PST reply actions
At least that's a positive huh maestro?
HUSTLE MADE ENT. NEW TRACK...CHECK FOR IT...NOTHING BUT THAT KILLA CALI FIRE FO SHO!!! http://www.myspace.com/jayoh1ne
Giving Phil a second chance
What I like is how nothing bothers him. He leads the Chargers down the field for a win as if he never threw that INT moments ago. I love how is so in “The Now”.
only bad call the refs made...
was the play where they called Eli out of bounds when he tried to throw the ball away, the Giants tried to challenge but the refs said it was not reviewable, and the replays showed that he was clearly still in bounds when he threw it…. other than that, I think this was the best reffed game of the year…
At least it didn't matter
That made it 2nd and 15, which became 3rd and 6, which became a first down on a pass to Nicks. And the drive ended with a touchdown for NY.
I can live with one bad call (that would’ve gotten overturned if they could’ve look at it) if it doesn’t effect the outcome of the game.
"I did not invent the wheel, I was the crooked spoke adjacent." - Aesop Rock
by John Gennaro on Nov 9, 2009 10:20 AM PST up reply actions
I had another issue with the refs
The Giants had a lot of, what seemed to me, to be obvious text book holds and blocks in the back. The refs just ignored them throughout the game. I didn’t watch as closely with the Chargers, but I assume the Chargers knew this as well and were doing the same. So the advantage was even. But, like in baseball where the umpire changes his strike zone at the end of the game, there were two big holding calls in the 4th quarter (Tolbert on the punt and the Giants on their final scoring drive). That seemed to impact the game and it seems a little unfair.
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
by Wonko on Nov 9, 2009 10:25 AM PST up reply actions 2 recs
This is a good point. There was a lot of blatant holding going uncalled early and at least one really clear case of a block in the back, too.
Bolts from the Blue // "Game over." - Jamal Williams
Bloody Elbow // "Every normal man must be tempted at times to spit upon his hands, hoist the black flag, and begin slitting throats." - H.L. Mencken
by Richard Wade on Nov 9, 2009 11:48 AM PST up reply actions
Right, Wonko
Several times it was very obvious from the stands.
If the thunder don't get ya then the lightning will!!
Robert Hunter
by Buck Melanoma on Nov 10, 2009 5:17 AM PST up reply actions
wow
It was a great game wasn’t it? I couldn’t agree with you more johnny boy,you were on point with your breakdown and your misc. notes are interesting as well.
I agree that Philip will correct his mistakes in time for next week, I almost thought we were done on that last INT but sure enough he is clutch as clutch can be.Gates had an off game but I think he’ll do better at home vs. Philly next week.As far as Shawne,SP ,Weddle and the rest of the D, easily the best showing of the year.I never lost faith in old Lights Out!!!
I’m glad to hear you guys had fun and didn’t get your asses whooped on.Hopefully clipshow posts those flicks of all your ugly mugs…lol.Hopefully this is the rejuvenating point of our season,I know we can play with the best the NFL has and we can whoop some ass when needed.The game was close but we dug deep and made it happen.I didn’t even care that I was late to work and was off 3 hours of sleep.In my mind this was the best showing of teamwork all season long.GO BOLTS!!!
HUSTLE MADE ENT. NEW TRACK...CHECK FOR IT...NOTHING BUT THAT KILLA CALI FIRE FO SHO!!! http://www.myspace.com/jayoh1ne
Vincent Jackson
He also drew the pass interference penalty in the end zone that set up the one TD he didn’t catch.
He did
"I did not invent the wheel, I was the crooked spoke adjacent." - Aesop Rock
by John Gennaro on Nov 9, 2009 10:22 AM PST up reply actions
Great game.
Great post.
Isn't it enough to know that I ruined a pony making a gift for you? ◔ヮ◔
Uncommon Sportsman :: Absurdity in play
Those drops by Gates and Floyd
I’ve never been so close to physically ripping out my hair than on those plays.
No kiddin'
I had to blink, rub my eyes, and slap myself in the face a couple of times after the ball bounced off their chests.
I don't know whether I prefer Astroturf to grass. I never smoked Astroturf.
JOE NAMATH
The Floyd drop was much more understandable. That’s a guy who gets injured easily and was just trying to protect himself (ala Marvin Harrison).
"I did not invent the wheel, I was the crooked spoke adjacent." - Aesop Rock
by John Gennaro on Nov 9, 2009 10:24 AM PST up reply actions
Gates has 6
drops now I think. He is among the league leaders…
"Football is a physical sport, sometimes you have a disagreement on what's going on, and you have a discussion about it." Kris Dielman
by Brian (DaBolts) on Nov 9, 2009 10:29 AM PST up reply actions
Ugh
"I did not invent the wheel, I was the crooked spoke adjacent." - Aesop Rock
by John Gennaro on Nov 9, 2009 10:45 AM PST up reply actions
I'm willing to bet our DVOA
stayed the same or fell some.
We're boned.
by Zach (maestro876) on Nov 9, 2009 10:29 AM PST reply actions
eh who cares...the W is what matters
HUSTLE MADE ENT. NEW TRACK...CHECK FOR IT...NOTHING BUT THAT KILLA CALI FIRE FO SHO!!! http://www.myspace.com/jayoh1ne
What's kind of weird is
That over the last couple of years the Chargers have relied on good special teams to help keep their DVOA among the top in the NFL. I’m not sure what to make of this game. Obviously, our coverage units were good. But, Sproles didn’t get to return anything due to the awful kicks by Feagles. The Giants “missed” a FG, that also had a fumble involved there somewhere. Those numbers are going to be weird.
However, my gut tells me that the Chargers offense and defense were both average in this game. That represents a step up from their previous level of performance. So I think we’ll see a rise.
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
Hope so.
I see improvement from the defense, but the same issues with the offense. I don’t see any reason why it can’t be better, either. The Colts barely run the ball, and do it for the same reason we do—sprinkled in just enough to make the defense aware that they have to defend it. And the Colts are still incredibly efficient on offense, despite everyone knowing they’re going to pass. We need to get to that level.
We're boned.
by Zach (maestro876) on Nov 9, 2009 11:15 AM PST up reply actions
Definitely
That AZ Cardinals do this as well and we seem to have every bit as many weapons on offense as either of those teams do.
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
I think we have the potential to do that.
We were doing it towards the end of last year. I think improved line play will help that, and Hardwick returning (hopefully) next week should start to remedy that.
I actually see reason to think this may not be a lost season.
We're boned.
by Zach (maestro876) on Nov 9, 2009 11:27 AM PST up reply actions 1 recs
Dios mio!
"I did not invent the wheel, I was the crooked spoke adjacent." - Aesop Rock
by John Gennaro on Nov 9, 2009 11:29 AM PST up reply actions
There was a lot to like on defense in this game
despite that one drive. For the first time, we got CONSISTENT pressure on the quarterback, against a good offensive line. There were sacks, and numerous occaisions where we hit Eli and flushed him out of the pocket. Gotta keep that up against McNabb next week, and Orton after.
We're boned.
by Zach (maestro876) on Nov 9, 2009 11:32 AM PST up reply actions
Both of those games
Are going to be a little tougher on the pass defense. Both teams like to run shorter routes and dink and dunk there way down the field. The Eagles do use the deep ball well. The key may be in making sure the pass rush can get there on plays where they are trying to go deep.
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
Agreed.
I found it really frustrating when the pocket would collapse in on Eli and he’d just slip out. Have to be careful about that with McNabb.
And yeah, with the shorter routes, have to get there faster.
We're boned.
by Zach (maestro876) on Nov 9, 2009 11:59 AM PST up reply actions
Eli slipping out
Those are quarterback hurries and teams that get a lot of those tend to get a lock of sacks too. They are annoying, but a sign of good pressure.
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
by Wonko on Nov 9, 2009 12:24 PM PST up reply actions 1 recs
Agreed, but it's still frustrating.
We're boned.
by Zach (maestro876) on Nov 9, 2009 12:39 PM PST up reply actions
I didn't DVR the game and I only saw what I saw from the stands.
But I had to call John and rant about Gates because i was so pissed about those two easy catches that could have extended drives. But like John said, I don’t expect him to do that again.
The fans for me weren’t that bad either, but I had a bunch of people talking crap to me all night, especially going in and out of our row when I got up to buy beer and go the the bathroom. A lot of the stuff they said didn’t make sense though, it was kind of funny. Some guy in a guy while I was walking out screamed at me “Phillip Rivers is a boner!”
Mountain West Connection ::Above the Rest::
Bolts From The Blue "There’s a gleam men. Let’s go get the gleam! Focus and Finish!!! One play at a time!!! Let's Go!!!"
Representing the San Diego State University Aztecs, home of the 2009 College Cheerleading National Champions in the all women's division.
by Sam (sdsuaztec4) on Nov 9, 2009 10:31 AM PST reply actions
Very intelligent argument
that guy had.
We're boned.
by Zach (maestro876) on Nov 9, 2009 10:32 AM PST up reply actions
I can't believe I didn't notice that he was a boner earlier.
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
Maybe he meant
that Rivers gave him a boner
or he was predicting that Rivers was going to bone the giants
I don't know whether I prefer Astroturf to grass. I never smoked Astroturf.
JOE NAMATH
in spanish when you call someone a "verga parada" it means they are good at whatever they're doing,whether it be at work or sportss etc. maybe it was a compliment by a n enibriated spanish guy speaking in english.
HUSTLE MADE ENT. NEW TRACK...CHECK FOR IT...NOTHING BUT THAT KILLA CALI FIRE FO SHO!!! http://www.myspace.com/jayoh1ne
There was a guy in the parking lot
That kept going “RIVERS!” and doing thumbs-down while making fart noises. I really didn’t know how to respond. Eventually he yelled out “Phillips is going to pick one off and take it to the house!” to which I responded “Phillips is out for the season and has been for a while” and he looked sad.
I made my friend go buy the beers (he got a free ticket without having to win a contest) and thought I was on the better side of that deal until he disappeared for 20 minutes and came back saying “I just spent 15 minutes talking to Joe Girardi! He was so cool!” Damn.
"I did not invent the wheel, I was the crooked spoke adjacent." - Aesop Rock
by John Gennaro on Nov 9, 2009 10:52 AM PST up reply actions
In spanish
I call Eli “cara penga”
I don't know whether I prefer Astroturf to grass. I never smoked Astroturf.
JOE NAMATH
No Dolts on Defense?
Watch the game again, with particular attention to Antonio Cromartie. It’s not his pass defending skill set that bothers me, but his seemingly shyness around contact. If there are other Chargers around, it seems like he shys away from making the tackle. That needs to be addressed by the coaches, IMO.
Well I guess that's some improvement
The last two games before the Giants he was real physical and was aggressive in his tackling. Since he never was doing that before, 2 out of 3 ain’t bad.
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
Good point, Mr. Loaf.
Bolts from the Blue // "Game over." - Jamal Williams
Bloody Elbow // "Every normal man must be tempted at times to spit upon his hands, hoist the black flag, and begin slitting throats." - H.L. Mencken
by Richard Wade on Nov 9, 2009 11:56 AM PST up reply actions
His pass defense was good enough to even it out in my opinion. I don’t even remember him being thrown on at all.
He’s never going to be a great tackler, and he definitely got more shy after the cameras showed trainers checking Jammer for a concussion on the sidelines.
"I did not invent the wheel, I was the crooked spoke adjacent." - Aesop Rock
by John Gennaro on Nov 9, 2009 12:03 PM PST up reply actions
He actually does hit pretty hard when he decides to. I really think the issue is willingness rather than ability.
Bolts from the Blue // "Game over." - Jamal Williams
Bloody Elbow // "Every normal man must be tempted at times to spit upon his hands, hoist the black flag, and begin slitting throats." - H.L. Mencken
I give ELI a Bolt...
for tryna be like Rivers and tryna make a play w/ 21secs left. Its a compliment really that he tried. Sorry Eli but u got ur tush handed to u w/ what was sent out for ya. But I give him a DOLT for not giving me the facial expression I wanted to see.. I was hoping it woulda been worse than Peytons face after the playoff game in Jan.
But on the real side. Rivers is no doubt the #1 Bolt here.
"It dont matter if you win or lose your still a loser... said the Chargers Fan"
by ChargersWitch on Nov 9, 2009 12:34 PM PST via mobile reply actions
I also had been critical of Rivera.
all I can say is: my bad Ron!
also Norv made one call I really didn't like..
the reverse to VJack on 3rd down made me throw my arms up in confusion. But other than that good play-calling.
Does anyone know what happened to Jammer?
They showed him coming out the last couple defensive series.
We're boned.
by Zach (maestro876) on Nov 9, 2009 1:52 PM PST reply actions
I'm surprised Acee doesn't have an update there
It definitely looked like he was being checked for a concussion. If he did have one, I would consider his status for the next game as Questionable at best.
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
I hope it's nothing serious.
I remember how badly our defense performed in the playoff loss at Pittsburgh when he went down with a torn hamstring.
We're boned.
by Zach (maestro876) on Nov 9, 2009 1:59 PM PST up reply actions
I doubt it is
If it was I would expect him to have gone to the locker room for further “tests”.
"I did not invent the wheel, I was the crooked spoke adjacent." - Aesop Rock
What did you think of English's game
I’m not saying he was a bolt, but it was a pretty encouraging performance I thought.
Passion Play - follow the annual quest for the premiership in all its horror and glory, http://spunc.com.au/members/hunter/product/9780980517965/
Totally agree
For what it’s worth…
"Football is a physical sport, sometimes you have a disagreement on what's going on, and you have a discussion about it." Kris Dielman
by Brian (DaBolts) on Nov 9, 2009 3:21 PM PST up reply actions
Absolutely.
Need to get more obvious passing downs so the three of them can get on the field.
We're boned.
by Zach (maestro876) on Nov 9, 2009 3:21 PM PST up reply actions
Perfect Gentleman
I was a gentleman and a scholar all day long, until the 4th quarter. That John Stewart looking tool, started it. The girl he was with was half his age, and I told him that she was banging his gray haired self because she had daddy issues. Then I was a Jerk the 4th quarter…but he totally Started it. Who throws empty Sprite Bottles?
by Blueblood27 on Nov 9, 2009 3:45 PM PST reply actions 1 recs
At least it wasn’t full, I guess.
Bolts from the Blue // "Game over." - Jamal Williams
Bloody Elbow // "Every normal man must be tempted at times to spit upon his hands, hoist the black flag, and begin slitting throats." - H.L. Mencken
Gentleman and scholar
about sums it up. Rec’d. :)
But don’t forget to add bodyguard as well.
Do or do not. There is no try.
Still in shock
Was in attendance last night and I’ve got to say that was awesome. First, I couldn’t believe how many charger fans were in attendance. Being from the east coast and only being able to attend games like Pittsburgh, NY, Philly, this was one of the largest showings of charger fans I’ve ever seen. On top of that, I was so happy to see everyone from top to bottom on our roster give it everything. Guys were just flying all over the place, they wanted this badly. Great win!
Had a great time
Like John said – a larger-than-expected Bolt contingent & a pretty average opposing fan crowd. A little smack, but nothing out of hand. Two jerks after the game, but they wanted to be long-distance bad-asses – wouldn’t come over when invited to discuss their displeasure with the outcome. Politely – I swear.
Our seats were at the end zone where the game-winner was scored. I watched it unfold before my eyes – my buddy & I were high-fiving before the ball hit VJ’s hands.
A couple of things were very evident to me. One …. Eli isn’t all that popular among a lot of Giants fans. Two …. they knew what was about to happen when we got the ball back with 2:05 & a timeout left. Some of them had their heads in their hands early.
It was far from perfect, but damn sweet. Made that 6.5 hr. ride each way from VA worth every minute.
If the thunder don't get ya then the lightning will!!
Robert Hunter
by Buck Melanoma on Nov 9, 2009 4:11 PM PST reply actions 1 recs
I was looking for you, Buck. Never found you though.
"I did not invent the wheel, I was the crooked spoke adjacent." - Aesop Rock
by John Gennaro on Nov 10, 2009 2:12 AM PST up reply actions
We were in 319
You?
Wore what I said – Jamal jersey & Virginia Tech hat. And pants, of course. haha
If the thunder don't get ya then the lightning will!!
Robert Hunter
by Buck Melanoma on Nov 10, 2009 5:19 AM PST up reply actions
The Irony was delicious Philip with the TD and Merriman with the sack; Eli thank you for a being a jerk!!
That’s right boys and girls neither Eli nor Shawne would be here if it weren’t Eli so here’s a big thank you hug to the big baby.
Maybe we had a little karma coming our way?
Don’t forget Kaeding’s go-ahead XP.
Bolts from the Blue // "Game over." - Jamal Williams
Bloody Elbow // "Every normal man must be tempted at times to spit upon his hands, hoist the black flag, and begin slitting throats." - H.L. Mencken
by Richard Wade on Nov 11, 2009 3:53 PM PST up reply actions
Nice touch forgot that one
And our kicker can kick without swinging and missing!!
Outcoached Coughlin Norv, but could you give 2-3 plays in the Wildcat, Please!!
The chargers average less than 2 yards with their RB’s, the wildcat main goal is to outnumber defender on a side, any little edge this running game can be given is urgent.
I don’t understand this desire to take the ball out of our best player’s hands.
Bolts from the Blue // "Game over." - Jamal Williams
Bloody Elbow // "Every normal man must be tempted at times to spit upon his hands, hoist the black flag, and begin slitting throats." - H.L. Mencken
by Richard Wade on Nov 11, 2009 3:53 PM PST up reply actions
Using that logic, why should we run at all?
You gotta look at this from the point being we are going to run the ball at certain points in the game. We don’t want to sub the wild-cat for a passing play, we want to sub it for a regular running play; and I don’t think most people would suggest using it as much as Miami does, but since we are worst in the league, why not try it a few times to see if it can be more successful than our standard power runs.
Running at all forces the defense to account for it when we’re passing. Going to the wild cat telegraphs what we’re doing. I’m not saying we shouldn’t use it at all, but it’s a gimmick and gimmicks should be used sparingly. Also, we’re actually the third worst running offense. Take that KC and Houston!
Bolts from the Blue // "Game over." - Jamal Williams
Bloody Elbow // "Every normal man must be tempted at times to spit upon his hands, hoist the black flag, and begin slitting throats." - H.L. Mencken
by Richard Wade on Nov 11, 2009 10:40 PM PST up reply actions
Wildcat...
doesn’t seem like the most horrible option here and there. No one knows how to shut down miami. They have two of the leagues top 10 rushers for a reason. Im sure LT could do SOMETHING in wildcat
When lightning strikes, horses run.
There are certain plays where everyone in the building knows you want to run
The Wildcat allows you to have an extra blocker and sometimes outnumber defenders on one side of the line of scrimmage. Come on we have seen to many power leads that net 2 yards up the middle all season with LT and the other RB’s and extra blocker can’t hurt.
If we're looking for Dolts on D, the other safeties did miss some key tackles
Ellison whiffed on Hakeem Nicks in the 3rd quarter for 29 yarder, and Oliver was railroaded by Jacobs. Minor quibbles but they’re not exactly finished products yet.
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