San Diego Chargers Defeat Oakland Raiders 24-20
by John Gennaro on Sep 14, 2009 10:47 PM PDT
in Chargers News
130 comments
Well, a win is a win, but the Chargers come back to San Diego with a lot more questions than when they left. Not to mention how battered and bruised the entire Chargers roster appears to be after this game. I'll keep an eye out for the Chargers injury reports and post any info I can here at BFTB.
It's unfortunate that the team needed it, but thanks to another great 4th quarter comeback (starring Philip Rivers and Darren Sproles) the Bolts start the season on the right side of the win column. The same type of performance against Baltimore next week, or throughout the season, is not going to cut it.
Here are some things to consider and discuss in the comments section. Bolts & Dolts will be up tomorrow.
- Was LaDainian Tomlinson benched in favor of Darren Sproles on the final drive?
- Why wasn't Darren Sproles able to catch kick and punt returns?
- Who will be playing C and RG for the Chargers in the future?
- Where was the Chargers much-anticipated pass-rush?
- Should Legedu Naanee (who had a very good game) replace Chris Chambers as the #2 receiver?
- Should Clinton Hart continue to be the starting SS for the Bolts?
- Will the Chargers ever learn to start the game by passing, since that's the only way they seem to put together drives late in games?
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Yowza. That was a great game...
… if you’re not a Raiders or Chargers fan. Me, I say that mostly sucked. Except the W.
by Neoplatonist Bolthead on Sep 14, 2009 10:49 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I'll moderate this. Question 1.
WTF is up with LT??? We see a 5 minute clip of him on ESPN during halftime of the first game telling everyone how much of a man he is and how he is going to prove everyone wrong and then what? He proves it by standing on the sideline most of the game? I dont’ get it? What’s the deal?
A kid who has a unicorn ranch in his room cannot call other people weird. Yes, we know about "Rancho Unicorno."
by Sam (sdsuaztec4) on Sep 14, 2009 10:49 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
13 carries, 55 yards, TD. Perhaps Sproles is going to be a bigger part of this offense than we realized? I think Sproles was out there for the final drive because he’s a better receiver.
"I did not invent the wheel, I was the crooked spoke adjacent." - Aesop Rock
by John Gennaro on Sep 14, 2009 10:51 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well
OBVIOUSLY LT is no longer the feature back. Apparently we now have a dual back scheme.
A kid who has a unicorn ranch in his room cannot call other people weird. Yes, we know about "Rancho Unicorno."
by Sam (sdsuaztec4) on Sep 14, 2009 10:52 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’ve been pushing for that for a long time. Color me surprised to be seeing it though.
"I did not invent the wheel, I was the crooked spoke adjacent." - Aesop Rock
by John Gennaro on Sep 14, 2009 10:52 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes and yes.
www.FriarsOnCardboard.blogspot.com
"jbox does not drink coffee, as it makes him clean house big time." ~Kev
by TheThirdGonzalez on Sep 14, 2009 10:54 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Concur
Regardless of anything that’s going on with LT, it’s the right call to have Sproles in there for the hurry-up drives. He’s faster and a bigger threat to hit the home run on the screen pass, dump-off, or draw, which is what you need in those situations.
by benrb on Sep 14, 2009 11:00 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree too
I’m just sick of looking at LT mope on the sideline.
A kid who has a unicorn ranch in his room cannot call other people weird. Yes, we know about "Rancho Unicorno."
by Sam (sdsuaztec4) on Sep 14, 2009 11:01 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
All I can say is
Damn!!!! Thank you Philip Rivers and Darren Sproles
by tonoxtono on Sep 14, 2009 10:50 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
and nanee nanee nanee
A kid who has a unicorn ranch in his room cannot call other people weird. Yes, we know about "Rancho Unicorno."
by Sam (sdsuaztec4) on Sep 14, 2009 10:50 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Naanee Naanee
Naanee Naanee
Hey hey hey
First down!
by Neoplatonist Bolthead on Sep 14, 2009 10:52 PM PDT up reply actions 3 recs
Awesome!
Nothing has deserved verde status as much as this.
www.FriarsOnCardboard.blogspot.com
"jbox does not drink coffee, as it makes him clean house big time." ~Kev
by TheThirdGonzalez on Sep 14, 2009 10:55 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
How about a little Shakespeare?
Then sigh not so, but let them go,
And be you blithe and bonny,
Converting all your sounds of woe
Into Hey Naanee, Naanee.
by benrb on Sep 14, 2009 11:03 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Now incorporate Hamlet's Third soliloquy
A kid who has a unicorn ranch in his room cannot call other people weird. Yes, we know about "Rancho Unicorno."
by Sam (sdsuaztec4) on Sep 14, 2009 11:05 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Love me some Naanee
If he’s a starting WR next year, that’s the next jersey I’m getting. Dude is nails.
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
by Wonko on Sep 14, 2009 11:31 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I almost got a Naanee jersey
but I went with a Rivers one instead.
I’m definitely considering getting a #11 also. He made some great catches tonight.
by Nohm on Sep 15, 2009 12:51 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The number makes it quite slimming
"I did not invent the wheel, I was the crooked spoke adjacent." - Aesop Rock
by John Gennaro on Sep 15, 2009 3:52 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sproles was trying to run before he could catch it
Was wondering why he couldn’t hold on to the ball
by Dude52089 on Sep 14, 2009 10:50 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Any word on 61?
Good that the P.R. Machine could eke out a victory… but how are we looking going forward?
by Neoplatonist Bolthead on Sep 14, 2009 10:51 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
There probably won’t be word until tomorrow, but it looked BAD. Guys don’t usually come back the next week after being taken off on a cart. I’d say we’re lucky if he’s back in a month.
"I did not invent the wheel, I was the crooked spoke adjacent." - Aesop Rock
by John Gennaro on Sep 14, 2009 10:52 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
can you say cobwebs wow
NEVER MISS A GAME,WHETHER BY BEING THERE OR WATCHING AT HOME,FO SHO!!!
by Gorditoe1 on Sep 14, 2009 10:53 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Opinions on the #3 WR: Floyd or Naanee?
I think I’m still sticking with Floyd.
by cspfan on Sep 14, 2009 10:53 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Floyd WR
Naane out of the slot
A kid who has a unicorn ranch in his room cannot call other people weird. Yes, we know about "Rancho Unicorno."
by Sam (sdsuaztec4) on Sep 14, 2009 10:53 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Vasquez and Hardwick.
Hardwick more important. Please be ok.
A kid who has a unicorn ranch in his room cannot call other people weird. Yes, we know about "Rancho Unicorno."
by Sam (sdsuaztec4) on Sep 14, 2009 10:53 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
too close for comfort dude
NEVER MISS A GAME,WHETHER BY BEING THERE OR WATCHING AT HOME,FO SHO!!!
by Gorditoe1 on Sep 14, 2009 10:55 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Probably looking at getting another OL
heard we got down to 5 healthy OL
by Dude52089 on Sep 14, 2009 10:55 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
LT and Buster Davis out with the same injury? Weird.
Sand in the vagina. (Doubtful)
A kid who has a unicorn ranch in his room cannot call other people weird. Yes, we know about "Rancho Unicorno."
by Sam (sdsuaztec4) on Sep 14, 2009 10:56 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
You can joke that way about Buster, but not LT.
by Neoplatonist Bolthead on Sep 14, 2009 10:57 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
LT spends more time on the sideline than the field.
If you cant hang anymore, man up and give us the roster spot. I love the guy but if he’s just doing this to prove someone wrong than that’s hurting the team.
A kid who has a unicorn ranch in his room cannot call other people weird. Yes, we know about "Rancho Unicorno."
by Sam (sdsuaztec4) on Sep 14, 2009 10:58 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think he's on the cautious side.
Not wanting to slow down the team by playing through the injury.
NEVER MISS A GAME,WHETHER BY BEING THERE OR WATCHING AT HOME,FO SHO!!!
by Gorditoe1 on Sep 14, 2009 11:00 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Are you serious? There were only 22 carries by the Chargers in the game. LT got 13 of them. He averaged 4.2 per attempt and scored a touchdown. What’s wrong with that?
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 Sep 14, 2009 11:01 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I guess I'm just sick of seeing him mope on the sideline
A kid who has a unicorn ranch in his room cannot call other people weird. Yes, we know about "Rancho Unicorno."
by Sam (sdsuaztec4) on Sep 14, 2009 11:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree
his moping is getting to be too much
by zelkolnikov on Sep 14, 2009 11:06 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think he's been taking secret lessons from Cutlerfucker
A kid who has a unicorn ranch in his room cannot call other people weird. Yes, we know about "Rancho Unicorno."
by Sam (sdsuaztec4) on Sep 14, 2009 11:06 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
it's just frustration give him the benefit of the doubt dog,Id give you the benefit of the doubt if you were moping bout the aztecs.
NEVER MISS A GAME,WHETHER BY BEING THERE OR WATCHING AT HOME,FO SHO!!!
by Gorditoe1 on Sep 14, 2009 11:08 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
LT save him for later
in regular season if hes the best running back why should they always play him if they got sproles and bennet when they can save LT for late in the season.
I think they should not let him have too many carries if he just wants to prove everyone wrong when it could hurt the team .
by BFTB_zach on Sep 14, 2009 11:16 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just consider the source
;)
(the wink is for ’tec)
www.FriarsOnCardboard.blogspot.com
"jbox does not drink coffee, as it makes him clean house big time." ~Kev
by TheThirdGonzalez on Sep 14, 2009 11:03 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’m happy he was restructured
"I did not invent the wheel, I was the crooked spoke adjacent." - Aesop Rock
by John Gennaro on Sep 15, 2009 3:53 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
i told you fool its a groin
NEVER MISS A GAME,WHETHER BY BEING THERE OR WATCHING AT HOME,FO SHO!!!
by Gorditoe1 on Sep 14, 2009 10:57 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
trade a 2nd or 3rd for a solid veteran,any ideas who?
NEVER MISS A GAME,WHETHER BY BEING THERE OR WATCHING AT HOME,FO SHO!!!
by Gorditoe1 on Sep 14, 2009 10:56 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Gonna have to get better......
Phillip is an elite QB, but he’s gonna get murdered if they don’t protect him better! DL has got to step up and put pressure! Early indication is Merriman isn’t the same player than before the surgery……LT days as the feature back is done! Thank god we’re playing in the AFC West!
by bolt4life on Sep 14, 2009 11:00 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Shawn merriman
Put the pressure on the QB a lot of times I saw him get close to the QB
I thought he looked impressive for his first game since last year
by BFTB_zach on Sep 14, 2009 11:13 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
My guess on LT not playing:
they consider Sproles to be their pass-catching RB, and with the Chargers playing from behind they put him in specifically to catch passes (which he did). That still doesn’t explain why he got the carry on the final play of the drive, and why LT was on the sideline with his helmet off, but that’s what I was thinking during the game.
by JollyWaffle on Sep 14, 2009 11:02 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
It was potentially a passing situation. I think bringing in LT would have signaled that we intended to run.
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 Sep 14, 2009 11:04 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah that makes sense.
Bottom line: LT is still #1 on the depth chart.
by JollyWaffle on Sep 14, 2009 11:06 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sproles in on the last play
I think it was to help with the Raiders prepare for the pass before the draw.
by cspfan on Sep 14, 2009 11:04 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
That’s mostly what I thought. I really hope he’s not hurt, but just being on the sideline in that situation isn’t a great indicator.
by Neoplatonist Bolthead on Sep 14, 2009 11:05 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
philip rivers
just went all PHILIP RIVERS
Homeboy throw in the towel
Your girl got dicked by Ricky Powell
by CurbEnthusiasm on Sep 14, 2009 11:05 PM PDT reply actions 5 recs
as bad as this game was...
I’ll take it over the first game last year…
by bighead on Sep 14, 2009 11:06 PM PDT reply actions 1 recs
True
1-0 vs 0-1
A kid who has a unicorn ranch in his room cannot call other people weird. Yes, we know about "Rancho Unicorno."
by Sam (sdsuaztec4) on Sep 14, 2009 11:06 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
LT hurt his ankle -- ka
A kid who has a unicorn ranch in his room cannot call other people weird. Yes, we know about "Rancho Unicorno."
by Sam (sdsuaztec4) on Sep 14, 2009 11:06 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Norv said this in his press conference
He used the words “rolled his ankle”
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
by Wonko on Sep 14, 2009 11:25 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I wonder how much more drunk I'm going to be next game,hmm....Yes considerably more.
NEVER MISS A GAME,WHETHER BY BEING THERE OR WATCHING AT HOME,FO SHO!!!
by Gorditoe1 on Sep 14, 2009 11:06 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Best monday night football game I've seen
Philip has his first 4th quarter cmeback of the year against a defense that covered very well all day but it seems like every time chargers and raiders meet the raiders give up in the 4th quarter
by BFTB_zach on Sep 14, 2009 11:10 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I think this game was GREAT for this team
This will make them more focused, realize they aren’t the most talented team but also they RALLIED. Good practice on the 2 min drill and WINNING GAMES AT THE END
by zelkolnikov on Sep 14, 2009 11:13 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Its a Win, but Damn
The front seven on Defense was overmatched all night. Cooper was the only one that seemed to show up (and even he had what could have been a costly dropped Int). Burnett looked great all pre season but looked lost out there tonight.
Naanee and Jackson made a couple nice catches but none of the receivers seemed to get any seperation all night long. I think this made the O line look even worse than they played as it caused Rivers to hold the ball longer and be a little hesitant.
Rivers came through in the clutch, Cooper, Naanee and Sproles had big plays and Scifres had a really good game as well.
The lack of experienced depth on the O line and D line appears that it is a problem, I think they are going to have to bring a lineman in on both sides of the ball (they could afford to cut 1 of their six safeties and 1 of their nine LBs.
by JeromeB on Sep 14, 2009 11:21 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Summary of the Game = Full Emotional Rollercoaster
I experienced:
Frustration (dumb penalties)
Depression (when Hardwick got hurt)
Anger (I hate Richard Seymour)
Calm (at halftime)
Disappointment (lots, i.e. Russell to Murphy TD in 4th Qtr)
Anxiety (lots, 4 Qtr final drive for one)
Excitement (VJ TD)
Elation (Cason INT)
Confusion (Raiders play call on Cason INT, many of Rivers’ throws)
I’m spent. And wired at the same time. Trying to calm down.
I hated and loved this game.
But a win is a win is a win. It’ll still be a win tomorrow and the next day and the day after that…
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
by Wonko on Sep 14, 2009 11:30 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
IFDACDAEEC
A word scramble! Cool!
Isn't it enough to know that I ruined a pony making a gift for you? ◔ヮ◔
Uncommon Sportsman :: Absurdity in play
by Axion on Sep 14, 2009 11:32 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Anagram:
Deface acid
www.FriarsOnCardboard.blogspot.com
"jbox does not drink coffee, as it makes him clean house big time." ~Kev
by TheThirdGonzalez on Sep 14, 2009 11:47 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was trying really hard for
“i defecated”
Isn't it enough to know that I ruined a pony making a gift for you? ◔ヮ◔
Uncommon Sportsman :: Absurdity in play
by Axion on Sep 15, 2009 12:08 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was upset by how the game was playing out, but I honestly expected to win even after the Murphy TD.
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 Sep 14, 2009 11:33 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The broken OLine kept me worried
If not for that I’m with you.
As Rivers said in postgame, “There isn’t a team in the NFL that practices the 2 minute more than we do.” I guess the inexperienced guys felt more comfortable with those plays.
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
by Wonko on Sep 14, 2009 11:36 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The concerns everyone had going into the season
were all validated tonight
—They couldn’t run block
—They couldn’t pass block
—They didn’t tackle very well in the first half
—They couldn’t get any pressure on the opposing QB
—The still can’t cover a tight end
—Miscommunication on defense led directly to a Raider Touchdown
The Chargers won because Phillip Rivers is a much more talented quarterback than Russell and the Chargers have much better receivers. But to be honest, the Raiders were the more physical team on both sides of the ball.
They did just enough to win, but if they don’t win more physical battles up front n both sides, this team has 9-7 written all over it
by DCB on Sep 14, 2009 11:36 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
They also won
Because Sproles is an awesome kick returner.
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
by Wonko on Sep 14, 2009 11:37 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Turner really, really need to put Philip in the shotgun all game next week.
Greg Maddux for manager.
by Zach (maestro876) on Sep 14, 2009 11:37 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I want to see
him in the Shotgun with Manu and sometimes Hester as personal protectors. Especially if Vazquez and Hardwick can’t go next week.
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
by Wonko on Sep 14, 2009 11:38 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Absolutely.
Enough with this establish the run nonsense. Especially with half the starting OL out.
Spread out that defense. Hit them with quick slants and screens. Make them pay for blitzing like crazy, as I’m sure they’ll do. Just ask our OL to protect for 3 seconds. Not 5-7.
Greg Maddux for manager.
by Zach (maestro876) on Sep 14, 2009 11:42 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Establish the run
When you’re up by 21.
It rhymes so it must be true.
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
by Wonko on Sep 14, 2009 11:43 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes.
You pass to get the lead, you run to keep it.
Seriously, they need to come out throwing. It’s clearly our strength.
Greg Maddux for manager.
by Zach (maestro876) on Sep 14, 2009 11:45 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Totally concur on the shotgun theory
And use some more no-huddle it accelerates de tempo, and gets the oposing team’s stamina down (if you can get first downs).
Considering the Ravens defense any oppurtinity to make them uncomfortable has to be used.
by TJBOLT on Sep 15, 2009 12:47 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
i'll beat this in to the ground everywhere i can
but Rivers proved why he’s better than Cutler tonight. Both placed in similar comeback type situations on the road in tough environments.
one flourished.
one pouted.
and THAT is why Phil Rivers is a franchise player and Cutler is an emo-quarterback
"I suggest more bike" ~KSK
www.throughbucknerslegs.com
by justdave on Sep 14, 2009 11:37 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Uh
Not so fast my friend. Cutler has absolutely no talent on his offense. I’ll cut him some slack for not being able to get anything done. Plus, I still say he did what every Chicago QB has been asked to do for the last 30 years. Give the defense a lead late in the 4th quarter. The defense blew it and I bet you they would tell you the same thing.
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
by Wonko on Sep 14, 2009 11:39 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
WRONG
Cutler is a girl.
we should put makeup on him and unleash Brian Giles on him.
I win you lose.
hahah
"I suggest more bike" ~KSK
www.throughbucknerslegs.com
by justdave on Sep 14, 2009 11:40 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I would agree with you if he still played for a team I hate
As it is, I’m not emotionally invested in what Cutler does or doesn’t do. And, at this point, I think he plays with the worst supporting cast of offensive personnel in the NFL.
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
by Wonko on Sep 14, 2009 11:42 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think the bears are that bad.
they have a decent TE and Hester is a threat (if inconsistent)
Cutler chucked those 4 picks all by himself. Stick a fork in him. He’ll be Jake Plummer in 2 years.
by Stephen (shaynes41) on Sep 15, 2009 4:36 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'll take anyone else's offensive personnel over them
In a heartbeat.
On top of that, Green Bay has one of the better Ds in the NFL. They can easily take care of a “decent TE” and an inconsistent threat. That leaves Cutler with next to nothing. He’ll just have to adjust and not try to force things as much. With the Broncos they could just mount another great offensive drive after a pick. With the Bears, that ain’t gonna happen.
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
by Wonko on Sep 15, 2009 11:55 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
and there were about 4 other pick opportunities blown by the Green Bay D
the game was a synopsis of his ability: flashes of brilliance mired in red zone picks, locking onto a preferred receiver, throwing into triple coverage, topped off with an inability to mount a comeback to win the game, all blamed on the OL, WRs, defense, playcalling, and refs.
what a relief to be an outside observer.
by CoastalBronco on Sep 15, 2009 2:04 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
but you are partially right
that last pick was completely 100% his WRs fault…
i just hate that bastard, and when he loses it makes my heart smile.
"I suggest more bike" ~KSK
www.throughbucknerslegs.com
by justdave on Sep 14, 2009 11:42 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
and THAT is why Phil Rivers is a franchise player and Cutler is an emo-quarterback
lmao
...ya'll are brutalizing me... ronnie dobbs
by notorioushbi on Sep 15, 2009 12:08 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The defense played pretty well in the second half.
Save the TD, obviously.
The patchwork offensive line played better in the 2nd half. Whether that’s due to the Raiders being winded, or intentionally backing off, I don’t know. But they played better.
Greg Maddux for manager.
by Zach (maestro876) on Sep 14, 2009 11:38 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
DEFENSE NEEDS A PASS RUSH
until they do, I refuse to be happy with them.
The Raiders were definitely spent in the second half. They were geeked up for the game, especially on defense, and in the second half they couldn’t carry that over as much. It happened to them last year in Oakland too.
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
by Wonko on Sep 14, 2009 11:45 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
You're right.
I don’t care what Rivera has to do. He needs to create a pass-rush.
Honestly, it seems like good coordinators find a way. LeBeau, Ryan, Johnson all put up great defenses year in and out despite personnel turnover.
Rivera needs to find a way.
Greg Maddux for manager.
by Zach (maestro876) on Sep 14, 2009 11:46 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I do wonder
if what Steve Young and Mike Golic were saying about the Raiders was true, that they were max protecting a lot. If so, it’ll limit the throwing options, but keep the pass rush at bay. Not every team is going to do that. So, maybe this is just a case where the Raiders were giving up something to keep Russell clean and we should be too harsh.
However, I won’t believe that the pass rush is fixed until I see it. They better get to Flacco, Pennington and Big Ben the next few weeks.
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
by Wonko on Sep 14, 2009 11:49 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Max protect is fine.
But then we’re back to players not being able to win individual battles. Which was the story of the pre-season.
We’ve got a Pro-Bowler, double-digit sack guys, a highly paid DE, and first round draft pick, and the only one who can manage a sack is the guy who was parking cars in the off-season.
This doesn’t increase confidence.
Greg Maddux for manager.
by Zach (maestro876) on Sep 14, 2009 11:51 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
But then there were too many guys wide open
If they’re going to max protect, then the guys they do send out for passes should get swallowed up. But there were lots of guys wide open that Russell just missed.
by benrb on Sep 14, 2009 11:56 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's gonna be hard
to root against Pennington and Patrick White… but I’ll manage!
www.FriarsOnCardboard.blogspot.com
"jbox does not drink coffee, as it makes him clean house big time." ~Kev
by TheThirdGonzalez on Sep 14, 2009 11:58 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
i know all i do is jock UConn alums...
but it really seemed like Tyvon Branch was in on every play this game… i saw him handling Gates in one on one coverage for a while too.
now granted he missed a couple tackles as well, but i think thats a product of over-exuberance and youth trying to overpursue and make the spectacular play as opposed to the sensible one.
but when he matures, the Raiders will have an extremely talented secondary… kinda scary in the years to come.
"I suggest more bike" ~KSK
www.throughbucknerslegs.com
by justdave on Sep 14, 2009 11:46 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I think
The Raiders got lucky today. There was a lot of physicality and I wonder if a different crew would have called more PIs and Illegal Contacts. I’m not buying that all those knocked down passes were legit.
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
by Wonko on Sep 14, 2009 11:50 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
What was up with Burnett?
He didn’t look anything like he did in practice or pre-season.
Greg Maddux for manager.
by Zach (maestro876) on Sep 15, 2009 12:04 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
From Acee's twitter:
Hardwick (ankle) in a boot. Vasquez (foot) appeared to be walking OK. But it’s going to be wait-and-see. LT(ankle) limping pretty bad— ka
Greg Maddux for manager.
by Zach (maestro876) on Sep 15, 2009 12:05 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I really just want our guys to blow people up.
They used to do that. Why not anymore?
Greg Maddux for manager.
by Zach (maestro876) on Sep 15, 2009 12:13 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Merriman sucks
And our DEs suck.
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
by Wonko on Sep 15, 2009 12:20 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm aware.
But they didn’t used to suck, and now they do.
Wtf? You can’t tell me that Olshansky was all that hot.
Greg Maddux for manager.
by Zach (maestro876) on Sep 15, 2009 12:23 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I can tell you that Merriman used to be better.
I can also tell you that Castillo used to be better. I can also tell you that Olshansky is better than what we currently have. He just wasn’t worth re-signing.
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
by Wonko on Sep 15, 2009 12:41 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I hope that Merriman and Castillo can improve.
Merriman because he’s coming back from injury, and Castillo just cause I prefer to hang on to slim hopes.
Greg Maddux for manager.
by Zach (maestro876) on Sep 15, 2009 9:16 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I yelled two things pretty much all game
1. When Oakland was on offense, I kept yelling to J. Russell, “Throw the ball!”
2. When SD was on offense, I kept yelling, “Screen! Throw a screen!”
Seriously… what was up with the lack of screen plays? Chargers usually kill with screens. It was killing me that they weren’t, until that late (final?) drive with the screenish play to Sproles.
by Nohm on Sep 15, 2009 12:50 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
screens would have really taken some heat off the pass rush. I was waiting for them too
by Stephen (shaynes41) on Sep 15, 2009 4:38 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Where was the shifting on defense?
Against the colts in the playoffs you had 7-9 guys in the line of scrimmage some would drop and others would blitz. The mere movement created confusion for the QB and the protection scheme.
Where the hell was it, the chargers defense was 4-5 man rush with static players before the snap. No confusion for the O-Line or J. Russell. The modern NFL is too dificult to not try to outsmart your opponent a little.
They won, but it sure would have been easier if the gameplans on both sides would have been a lot more ambitious.
by TJBOLT on Sep 15, 2009 12:51 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Charger Fans-Too early to panic
Yes it was an ugly, ugly, ugly win. But there is no need to panic. The problem is that the regular starters are finally getting to play. Charger coaches like to sit their regulars during the pre-season exhibition games after some token participation.
Merriman did not seem to be a factor and the Raiders were not even stunting on him. Dobbins did well whenever he was allowed in. Nanee was catching everything he could get his sticky fingers on. The Charger offensive line becomes a question mark.
by Oogway on Sep 15, 2009 12:56 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I don't think anyone is panicking
It’s just annoying to see a team that is thought of as a Super Bowl contender have to go to the wire against a team that hasn’t has winning season in 7 years.
You’d like to see a team that is talented and prepared enough to take on anyone. That was not the team we saw today. And you have to wonder if we’ll ever see it. The Chargers played a game where one bad break could have cost them a W. Teams that play like that have trouble getting through the playoffs.
They have to get better. I think we all just wish they would have taken the offseason to do that instead of having to do it inseason.
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
by Wonko on Sep 15, 2009 1:26 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Anybody see the Pats-Bills game?
the Pats won because of a blunder by the Bills and should have lost that game. I feel with division games you can throw the stats out the window. We got the win no matter how we got it lets move on. Go Chargers!
by Harsh_619 on Sep 15, 2009 1:41 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
The stats say
That you can’t throw the stats out the window. They still apply. Like it or not.
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
by Wonko on Sep 15, 2009 11:56 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
yes, but one stat applies more than others
W
by CoastalBronco on Sep 15, 2009 1:58 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
If you say so
But going 1 win doesn’t get you to the playoffs last time I checked otherwise 31 teams would have made it last year. So I don’t think it does apply more than others.
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
by Wonko on Sep 15, 2009 2:44 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Actually, let's compromise
The most important thing that happened in the Chargers first game was that they got a W.
The most important thing that happened in the Chargers 2009 regular season was that they played like an 8 to 9 win team in the first game.
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
by Wonko on Sep 15, 2009 2:49 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
one game at a time
I’m far from ready to make judgements on the Chargers 2009 season.
by CoastalBronco on Sep 15, 2009 3:16 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm not making a judgment about the season
I’m making a judgment about their performance in the first game of the season.
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
by Wonko on Sep 15, 2009 3:40 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think 16 other teams would prefer a W to stats this week
by CoastalBronco on Sep 15, 2009 3:15 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think you are failing to see the forest within the trees.
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
by Wonko on Sep 15, 2009 3:39 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I might say the same of you
“You play to win the game.” – Herm Edwards
“Statistics are for losers.” – Scotty Bowman
The latter quote’s intention is that winners really don’t care.
“You’d like to see a team that is talented and prepared enough to take on anyone. That was not the team we saw today. And you have to wonder if we’ll ever see it. The Chargers played a game where one bad break could have cost them a W. Teams that play like that have trouble getting through the playoffs.”
Look, I get it that if you prorate the game 1 performance statistically over 16 games the Chargers suck. But I’ve seen them play just good enough to win for at least a few games in each season over the past few years, and in the end they always manage to show up and play (almost) as well as anybody else in the playoffs. I’m not hitting the panic button yet. One game does not a season make. They got the W, the past has passed, let’s see how they handle the Ravens at home before we decide they’re going nowhere fast. They didn’t give up at 4-8, why should I at 1-0?
“They have to get better. I think we all just wish they would have taken the offseason to do that instead of having to do it inseason.”
I understand your frustration. But although preferable, this would be out of character for the Chargers.
by CoastalBronco on Sep 15, 2009 4:54 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
so what happened to those beautiful screen passes we used all pre-season
I think I saw one to B-Man and one to Hester but none to Sproles or LT, and I’m not counting the shovel pass. That was probably are most deadly play along with going deep to Jackson/Floyd/Nanee and I saw none of any of it. Our offense seemed to be in a shell most of the night. Hopefully we can open it up more next week.
Jennings, Hellickson, Davis, Brignac, Beckham, Moore > Your top 3
by Dbullsfan on Sep 15, 2009 7:18 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I think the problem was
They were afraid that those tall bull rushing lineman were going to get their hands and heads in the way of the screens. I’m also willing to bet that the Raiders haven’t shown themselves to be particularly vulnerable to screens, but I’d have to double check some numbers on that. If that is the case, the Chargers may have decided to mostly leave those out of the game plan.
Wisdom can not be cultivated through ignorance of information.
by Wonko on Sep 15, 2009 11:58 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
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