Bolts From The Blue: FanPosts

Why the Broncos losing to the Redskins is even more important

2009-11-20T19:45:52Z

Let's play the what if game. What if the Chargers beat the Broncos on Sunday? Well, then they are in sole possession of first place and, as the saying goes, "Control Their Own Destiny." That means they would win the division if they won all their remaining games and the Broncos won all their remaining games. However, as much as I love the Chargers, I'm not sure I see them finishing the season on an 11 game winning streak. So, what else could happen?

What if the Chargers lose a game (following a victory over the Broncos) and the Broncos win all of theirs? Well, then the two teams finish in a tie at 12-4.

First tie-breaker (we all know this) is head-to-head. No help there since in this scenario they split the series.

Next up, divisional record. Chargers are current 3-1 and with a win over the Broncos would be 4-1. A loss to the Chiefs would be a problem in this scenario since the Broncos will finish 5-1 in the division if they win all their games except the Chargers game. So, the Chiefs can't be the Chargers 1 loss if the Chargers and Broncos both finish 12-4.

Next up, common opponents. This is where the Redskins game is important. Every opponent on the Chargers schedule is also an opponent of the Broncos except the Titans and Dolphins (the Broncos have the Colts and Patriots). Since we already know that the divisional records would be the same in this scenario (5-1), then that leaves 8 common opponents. Currently, the Chargers are 2-2 in these games with 4 left to play (Browns, Cowboys, Bengals and Redskins). The Broncos are 3-3 in these games with 2 left to play (Giants and Eagles). The 2 Chargers losses are to the same teams that Broncos lost to (Ravens and Steelers), but since the Broncos lost to the Redskins it providers an opening. So all the Chargers would need to do is beat the those 4 teams (Browns, Cowboys, Bengals and Redskins) and they would win the tie-breaker in this scenario.

So the one team the Chargers can afford to lose to if they beat the Broncos and win all but 1 of their remaining games? The Tennessee Titans.

I will point out that if the Broncos lose to the Colts and win all their other games and the Chargers lose 2 of their remaining games and neither loss is to the Titans so that they both finish 11-5, then the Broncos win the division. This is because at least one of those Chargers losses would either include the Chiefs (lose the divisional tie-breaker) or it both losses are to common opponents (and the Chargers would lose the common games tie-breaker with a record of 4-4 to the Broncos' 5-3).

The fourth tie-breaker is conference record. Basically, the Chargers would lose this tie-breaker if they lost to the Bengals or Browns and the teams finished tied (and, obviously the Broncos don't have any non-Colts losses). The Broncos loss to the Redskins actually works against the Chargers here since it was a non-conference game, but we are really getting into some odd scenarios here.

The best way to think of it might be this. If the Chargers beat the Broncos, then any non-Titans loss by the Chargers needs an accompanying non-Colts loss by the Broncos if they are going to finish in a tie. Or, maybe the best way to think of it is: Don't finish in a tie. Easier said than done.

Any questions?

Ask a Bronco fan!

2009-11-18T17:43:03Z

I'm not the most qualified person to answer questions, but I think I am fairly competent. And, since no one else has stepped up, I thought I would jump in and take initiative.

One note quickly: I hate bickering. Despise it, refuse to engage in it. If you bait me, I'll just ignore you. I ask any fellow Bronco fans who join in to do the same. I can occasionally get snarky, but it's always in good humor. If I cross a line, call me out and I'll do my best to be objective and apologize if necessary.

So...

Let's begin! What do you want to know?

Broncos’ Orton Will Play Despite Ankle Injury

2009-11-17T03:33:09Z

NFL Network insider Michael Lombardi is reporting Denver Broncos QB Kyle Orton will play this week against the San Diego Chargers despite an injured left ankle.

Orton sat out the second half of Sunday’s 27-17 loss to the Redskins after he was injured during a scramble late in the first half, and refused to speculate on the severity of the injury following the game.

Just that! I wonder in what kind of shape and how long he'll be able to stay out there. Orton in bad shape might benefit us more than the Bronco's. That being said, it's not like Simm's is great.

SD-DEN PART2

2009-11-16T21:26:18Z

hello chargers fans u are playing well the last 3 weeks and we are not i read on mhr that k orton might be out for the season if that is the case we are torst its not just the qb our run D is leaky we have no p we miss r harris bad to any broncos fans that read on my post on here i do not mean to sound negative its just the realty of the moment u chargers fans can ask q about Denver by the way if u guys keep playing this well u could be in Miami against d brees for the rec i hope denver wins but i do not expect it

Josh McDaniel Has a Plan, Maybe....

2009-11-16T16:57:14Z

Hey all at BFTB, just got back from the mile high report (trying to find more info on the Kyle Orton injury) and came across an amusing story. It seems at McDaniels press conference after their lose he said something to the effect of, " We need to give credit to the chargers coach Jim Zorn." Now, IMO, this can mean two things..

More after the jump....

1) It is very possible the Broncos overlooked the Redskins and are focused on next weeks game..

2) The Broncos now in the back of their minds the Bolts are coming, and coming hard....

I believe its the latter of the two. They, the mile high report bloggers think its the first...I would love to hear you insightful thoughts on this matter.

Dumbest Coaching Moves of All Time...

2009-11-16T09:36:28Z

This post is a little off topic, but I was interested to see what the Bolts from the Blue community would have a say on it...

Watching tonight's game between the Colts and Patriots, I was left absolutely dumbfounded by the move of Bill Belichick to go for the first down on a 4th down and 2 play on his own 28 with 2:08 to go in the fourth with just a 6 point lead. The fourth down play came up about a half yard short of picking up the first down, and Peyton Manning led his team for a touchdown to pull out a miraculous win. For me personally, this was one of the absolute dumbest coaching moves I have ever seen, and I really cannot see any reasonable argument in favor of the call to go for it. (and just a side note: I personally feel that most NFL coaches are too hesitant to go for it on fourth down, under the right circumstances, but this was absolutely ridiculous)

My question to the Bolts from the Blue community is this, where does this rank among the dumbest coaching moves in sports history? Whether in football, or any other major sport, what were the dumbest coaching decisions ever?

Kyle Orton Looks Done for the Season

2009-11-16T07:23:43Z

But there could be hope. Because remember what josh mcdaniels did to Matt Cassel? He did a good job with him and keeping Tom Brady's seat warm right? Hes a great quarterback coach.Great chargers win against philys. haha at least norv hasn't lost against raiders when Andy Reid has.Its weird though, I was really stressed out the first 5 weeks haha. Its always been like this but I still think it sucks that this team has been in the playoffs for four straight times and hasn't won a superbowl right? Hope injuries don't get in the way again. and hope Chargers win a superbowl in San Diego because now is the time.

Rivers Post Game Interview PHI vs. SD

2009-11-16T04:18:08Z

619 Sports caught up Chargers Quarterback Philip Rivers for a post game interview where talked about the great win the against a good but injured NFC East Philadelphia Eagles. Rivers spoke highly of his offensive line, and his wide receivers on how well they helped in keeping the Eagles out of their normal blitzing scheme. He also disscussed how proud and happy he is to see Running Back LaDainian Tomlinson back in a groove, and feeling healthier than he has felt over the past few seasons. A "Great team win" is how he described the overall feeling in the Chargers locker room.

Chargers Getting Into a Winning Groove

2009-11-15T21:55:55Z

I am rooting for your team and Phillip Rivers

San Diego Chargers are one team to watch for the rest of the season. Every year in the NFL there are teams that start off slow and then get into a groove. I really think Phillip Rivers is one of the more underrated players in the game. He has tremendous talent and knack of making big plays. Without a doubt he is a much more talented quarterbacked that Denver's Kyle Orton. The Broncos got off to the hot start and beat the Chargers pretty good on the Monday Night game. They are faltering now and will come back down to earth. When it's all done they will fall behind the San Diego Chargers.

The way the Chargers have looked the past few weeks is the team I expected to see cruise to the playoffs and into a title match up. I think this is the one team that could give Indianapolis a match up in the AFC. The Steelers and Patriots will be tough, but the Colts match up well and have handled these teams in the past. If Phillip rivers gets into a a rhythm like he showed the past few weeks then I think this is a team that will surprise folks around the NFL. Phillip Rivers is quietly having one of his best seasons. It is amazing with the running game the way it has looked and a bad offensive line. It will be a challenge for him to keep avoiding defenders and remain healthy with that line out there.

With that great comeback win against the Giants proved to me that this quarterback for the Chargers can win under pressure. They had some early season struggles and troubles and hopefully that is behind them. Some teams get off to that slow start improving and dramatically progressing as the season moves on. I really think they will be one of those teams to watch for in the second half. Some critics think they are an over rated team, but they have a All Pro quarterback trying to win an elusive Super Bowl ring. I think the bolts will be there one day as their defense struggles this season. They will gain valuable playoff experience this year and should over take the Broncos in the AFC West. The Broncos have peaked and the bolts are rising.

My Time with Philip: How I Went from Skeptic to Man-Crush in 5 Years

2009-11-14T21:28:57Z

Leading up to the 2004 NFL draft, there was a lot of talk coming out of Charger camp about their desire to pick a QB with the number 1 pick. I was not a fan of that idea. I didn't think Drew Brees had been given enough of a chance. While I had concerns about his size and his arm strength, I loved his leadership abilities and quickness in the pocket where he could turn sure sacks into 20 yard losses -- I mean, minimal gains. My point was that the Bolts had bigger fish to fry at the top of the draft. Like sure-fire future Hall of Famer Robert Gallery! And to top it all off, the guy the Chargers were talking about selecting told them he didn't want to play for them!

On draft day, I was beside myself. The Chargers were on the verge of becoming a laughingstock. I half expected Roseanne Barr to come out and sing "San Diego Superchargers," and then grab her crotch. By the skin of his teeth, despite sacrificing all the leverage in the world, A.J. Smith managed to take advantage of a GM more stupid than him and make a trade for the ages. But for what? Philip Rivers? NC State??

After watching enough tape on Rivers to fill a, well an ESPN highlight reel, I was frustrated that my team would go with this oafish country bumpkin who was slower than molasses and whose throwing motion looked like he had just regained feeling in his arm after "plumb doin' too much cow milkin'."

And then came the holdout. Oh boy, here we go again. Seau, Tomlinson, now Rivers. For whatever reason -- whether it's because the Chargers can't pull the trigger on the money, or these top five picks are just so darn stuck up -- the frustration of not getting the deal done tainted my view of Rivers even more. (On a side note, one could easily draw the conclusion that Rivers' holdout was the best thing for the team because of how good it made Brees.)

Finally, he signed and eventually got into his first preseason game. And, although he slung the ball with his milkin' arm from what seemed like his hip, his release was faster than any Charger I'd ever seen. And there was a way about it that you knew, just by the way the ball shot out of his hand, that it was gonna be complete.

But there were still those feet! Those iron balls attached to his ankles! It's not about running speed. Heck, Fouts was a slow runner. Even Humphreys wasn't exactly greased lightning. But Rivers couldn't even stand up straight from center after taking the snap without being surrounded by four players.

And then there was the issue of ball security. Sure he was tall, but he held the ball too low. A finger swipe could knock it out of his hand.

But despite any and all flaws and bad performances, Rivers made himself available to the media. And although he bore a slight resemblance to Ryan Leaf, he showed a savvy and intelligence the Leaf never could (although maybe he's a little smarter than some of his current "roommates").

Rivers was smart. Football smart. Media smart. His "country bumpkin" image gave way to "Southern charm." If he ever said anything that vaguely sounded like bragging, he quickly backed it up with humility. If he was ever down on anyone, he reassured us that it was a team game, and the Chargers would get better as a team. He never lost confidence in anyone, and he never griped about his situation. He was offered a mop up job at the end of a Charger blow-out, but he declined. It was Brees' game. He should finish it.

And then came the adjustments. He acknowledged and embraced his weaknesses and made them a challenge to overcome. To this day, he stands under center in a staggered stance to help get out quicker. He holds the ball higher and tighter, and if he's not going to throw it right away, he tucks it in. And man, can he run! He works out everyday on the shores of Pacific Beach with a parachute tied to his back...

Okay, maybe not that last one. But Philip knows his limitations. And knows what he needs to work on (next up: SLIDING!). He takes nothing for granted -- even his place among the great QBs of the day.

Needless to say, my apprection for Rivers has grown immeasureably since 2004. He's an elite QB in this league. Not only because he completes a lot of passes for a lot of yards and touchdowns. Not only because he's a great leader and winner. But because he never feels the need to say these things to your face. He lets you figure it out for yourself. Even if it takes you 5 years. Philip... call me sometime. Let's hang out.

Eagles Prediction Thread

2009-11-14T18:27:56Z

"When the number of factors coming into play in a phenomenological complex is too large scientific method in most cases fails. One need only think of the weather, in which case the prediction even for a few days ahead is impossible."

Pfft, Albert Einstein, what did he know, Bolts 28-24.

JollyWaffle reaps a Carnac

2009-11-13T14:46:53Z

JollyWaffle stepped up and grabbed a Carnac this week. No waffling this week he came in a mere three points away from the final score.

The Maestro ran off with the Leaf by picking the Giants to thump the Chargers by two touchdowns.

Into every life a little Leaf must fall.

Getting One Over on the Giants of Jersey

2009-11-12T05:07:04Z

Here is the Patrick Perspective on the Chargers-giants game. The day started bleary-eyed and slow. My fiancé worked till 5 in the morning and I had spent all night studying for work and absolutely giddy about the day ahead. At moments like this, it does not matter how tired you may be; it’s game day.

The Big Apple Bolts Backers ordinarily watch the game from MJ Armstrongs in Manhattan. Please do come if you are ever in the city as it is filled with kind people and hardcore fans. Several months ago everyone starting asking questions what we were doing for the game, one thing led to another and through (mostly) two of the BABBs about 300 Charger fans found themselves in giant’s stadium parking lot with two limo buses, a professional tailgating crew and more alcohol that we could consume. Those who were there know this is no exaggeration.

The limo buses picked us up at 10 am near Time’s Square. We stocked them with magnums of champagne and oj, cases of brew, rum, vodka, and a few bottles of water. We arrived around 10:45 about 2 mmosas deep to the parking lot close to the entrance and there were few others there. Quick as silver the food line and bbq were set up. At this point the there were about 100 people there. Here is a picture from the bus and a group picture.

As the afternoon progressed the crowd grew and pretty soon I wondered where all the giants fans were. I decided to venture off and visit sam and get a little heckling. I love getting heckled, especially when people are funny about it. At an away game I usually just laugh and don’t say much more that a couple lines; I’m not so much into antagonizing others in the lion’s den. A lot of yelling and screaming but I was surprised at how many young kids were there (about 5-10 yo) who were wearing LT jerseys and playing catch or otherwise bonding with their giants jersey wearing fathers. I would have been endearing if the parents weren’t flirting with the dark side. Sam was hanging out with a few giants fans who I liked and found friendly. On the way back to the bus I found my way into a sea of giants fans who were giving me the how-do-you-do and hope-you-get-home-safe treatment. A football found its way to hitting me in the lower torso. The people who threw it had no receiver in the area. I called intentional grounding and punted the ball away.

My fiancé, Mladenka, and I decided to walk around and high-five every Charger fan we saw. I love women who get heckled and give a razz right back. "Hey you’re girl is taller than you!" and her smiling reply "I’m taller than you too so what’s up!?! Go Chargers!" We went through several sections and (somewhat) randomly came upon John and clipshow. A high-five and "you’re Patrick aren’t you" later and I knew we found home away from home. A picture, this time Mike had his shirt on. You’re welcome.

(mike, me, mladenka, "escondido" john, clip show)

It was now time to go in. Clip Show was right, the stadium is reminiscent of the murph. The main difference seemed to be that the entire stadium was above ground; you don’t walk down to the field level like in SD, instead you take an escalator up to the first level and then walk right back down the steps on the other side toward your seats. There were similar sight-lines, a similar promenade a-la the plaza section of the murph.

The Star Spangled Banner was sung and for a moment the whole stadium agreed on something. When you are in a hostile environment it’s easy to lose the humanity of the people around you. But for just a moment, everyone was thinking the same thing and was thankful to be together. Then the game started and it was on. I have already posted my thoughts about the game before but there was a little boy about eight or nine sitting in front of me who saw 54 seconds left in the game and turned to me and said "there’s not enough time to score. Game’s over." What do you say to such a sweet face saying such vitriol? "Don’t jinx your team kid." Our section had already started to empty out as most had thought the game was in the refrigerator. After Rivers to Jackson for the win came and went there were even fewer still in the stands. I had to run to the section next to mine to find charger fans to dog-pile and celebrate with. A few choice words were said from giants fans but all in good fun from the losing team I might say. As the last Merriman sack sealed the deal a rain of beer and trash came down from the rafters hitting mostly other giants fans.

After the game the area where the buses were was party central for the post-game shenanigans. Here are a few pictures.

The buses dropped us off at MJs and we all lived happily ever after.

A quick note: Marisa from BABB, wherever you are right now, thank you for your work for everyone. See you at MJs.

Week 9 Review. Chargers at New York Giants. Final 21-20 Chargers.

2009-11-11T15:15:31Z

Chargers vs Giants boxscore

Norv Turner takes advantage of Giants Head Coach Tom Coughlin, and Philip Rivers takes advantage of the Giants blitz to score a classic come-from-behind victory (giving us a classic Manning Face in the process), putting the Chargers in the thick of the playoff chase.

In the statistic department, the Chargers were obliterated by the Giants. Two statistics which correlate strongly with victory are Time of Possession (TOP) and Turnovers. The Giants led TOP by a 37:47 to 22:13 margin, and had a 2-1 edge in turnovers. The question is this: How on Earth did the Chargers steal this game?

The answers: Norv Turner took advantage of Tom Coughlin's ridiculously conservative gameplan, the Chargers cashed in their red-zone opportunities, the Giants posted 84 yards in penalties more than the Chargers, and Philip Rivers did what great QB's do - deliver in the clutch.

Grades are below the jump.

Quarterbacks: B

Until the final 2 minutes, Philip Rivers' grade was probably around a C-. During the first half, when the Chargers defense had issues getting off the field, Rivers took advantage of what limited chances he had. He carved the Giants blitz, consistently finding both Vincent Jackson and Antonio Gates in space. In the 2nd half, Rivers was bouncing between good and awful - he was not helped by some crucial drops in the 3rd quarter. His interception to Jackson was either badly underthrown or overthrown - Jackson could neither run past Giants' DB Corey Webster or outjump him for the ball. Rivers late 4th quarter interception should have been a game killer - a badly aimed throw under pressure to Malcom Floyd. However, in the 2 minute drill, Rivers was brilliant. He managed the drill with great efficiency, not wasting any seconds or losing composure getting players moved around, or trying to get the play called. Accuracy was top notch, and Rivers' patience on the drive was rewarded with Giants' blitzes that opened holed in the defense.

Running Backs: C

The Giants completely bottled up the Chargers' running game. LaDainian Tomlinson was a non-factor, rushing for 22 yards on 12 attempts. Sproles lost a yard on his only rushing attempt. In fact, 15 of the Chargers' 34 rushing yards came on a Rivers scramble. Until the run-blocking improves, it will be impossible to determine exactly what Tomlinson has left. The inability of the defense to get off the field in the 1st half made it almost impossible for the Chargers to get any rhythm on the ground. Both Tomlinson and Sproles were largely ineffective in the passing game, excepting a huge pass play to Sproles on the game-winning drive. Blitz pickup by the running backs was solid for the 2nd straight game.

Wide Receivers: B-

Once again, Vincent Jackson shows why he's one of the 10 best receivers in the NFL. He didn't post huge yardage, and none of his plays were vertical, but the 2 TDs were more than enough. Aside from Jackson, the receivers were at best a mixed bag. TE Antonio Gates' stat line looks good, but it hides 2 terrible dropped passes in the 3rd quarter - the 2nd of which would have extended a drive inside the Giants 40. On the same drive, WR Malcom Floyd developed a severe case of alligator arms on a pass over the middle. WR Legedu Naanee made a couple of nice catches, and reserve TE Kris Wilson scored on a nice play-action pass on the goal line in the 3rd quarter.

Offensive Line: C+

Pass blocking was solid, but not exceptional, by the offensive line. Rivers was sacked twice, once after LT Marcus McNeill was beaten by DE Osi Umenyiora, then later when DT Fred Robbins beat RG Louis Vasquez and C Scott Mruczkowski. On the whole, the Chargers did a workmanlike job handling the Giants' myriad blitzes. When it counted late, Rivers was hassled only once. As for the running game, the unit as a whole was ineffective. In particular, Vasquez, Mruczkowski, and LG Kris Dielman struggled to hold their blocks, pull effectively, and prevent DTs Robbins and Barry Cofield from disrupting the running game. It cannot be said enough that C Nick Hardwick will, once healthy, instantly upgrade the middle of the line. In a welcome display, RT Jeromey Clary largely held his own against DE Justin Tuck.

Defensive Line: B-

Luis Castillo had a very good game, when lined up outside on Giants' RT Kareem McKenzie, he was very disruptive and created blitzing lanes for Shaun Phillips and the defensive backs. He also made the biggest hidden play of the game, beating Giants' RG Chris Snee and drawing a holding penalty to help keep the game within a TD. Inside, the rotation of Travis Johnson, Ian Scott, and Ogemdi Nwagbuo was solid, and intermittently disruptive (Scott in particular). On the other DE spot, Alfonso Boone and Jacques Cesaire were decent at taking up space, but failed to hold the edge on more than a few run plays. However, on the whole, the group did a good job opening blitzing lanes for the linebackers and secondary.

Linebackers: B+

OLB Shawne Merriman is very close to full strength. He posted 2 sacks, one with 4 minutes left on to get the ball back for the offense, and later to end the game. His lateral pursuit is improving by the week, and his bull rush is increasingly effective. He also missed Manning by inches on 2 or 3 other occasions. On the other side, OLB Shaun Phillips had a sack and blew up a couple of short yardage running plays. Inside, ILBs Stephen Cooper and Brandon Siler did a good job cleaning up the middle of the defense, posting 21 tackles between them.

Secondary: B

A few weeks ago, Ron Rivera uncorked safety blitzes and zone blitzes against the Chiefs. In this game they were tremendously effective, opening room for Merriman and Phillips to work 1-1 on the Giants' OTs. Rookie S Kevin Ellison has been a major upgrade over Clinton Hart - he is a very good in-the-box defender and is terrific coming off the edge and attacking the QB. Ellison's major issue is overpursuit - it cost him at least one sack on Manning, and was what allowed Giants' WR Steve Smith to score a TD in the 2nd quarter. Later, his overpursuit allowed WR Hakeem Nicks to pick up 29 yards on a screen pass. If coaches can correct his pursuit issues, Ellison has a chance to be very, very good. FS Eric Weddle played a great game, recording 9 tackles and 2 major hits on receivers over the middle. CBs Quentin Jammer and Antonio Cromartie were not tested down the field, and allowed limited completions - excepting Smith. Tackling has generally improved, although it's an issue for Ellison and Cromartie. DB Steve Gregory struggled a bit to contain Smith in the slot, but was effective as a blitzer.

Special Teams: B

The Chargers coverage teams were solid, giving up only one significant return on a punt in the 4th quarter - although the return gave the Giants a short field on offense. Tom Coughlin decided earlier in the week that he would not allow Sproles to beat the Giants on a kick or punt return, resulting in several short kicks that gave the Chargers good field position. P Mike Scifres was very good, limiting returns with a combination of hang time and distance - except for the punt that was returned (mentioned above). K Nate Kaeding was solid on kickoffs, and extended his streak of consecutive XPs.

Coaching: B+

Norv Turner has been justly criticized for terrible late-game management, but in this game, he performed brilliantly. By saving his timeouts, he gave the Chargers a chance to steal the game late. Coughlin took the bait and played into Turner's hands by going conservative. Turner's playcalling on the last drive (with an assist from Tomlinson) was so good that the Chargers didn't even use their last timeout. Red-zone efficiency has gotten better due to spreading the field and use of play action passing. However, the insistence on a power run game served as a drive killer on more than one occasion - the Chargers need to spread the field to create space for Tomlinson and Sproles. On defense, Ron Rivera is continuing to dial up the pressure. The Giants especially had problems handling the zone and safety blitzes Rivera deployed - a less athletic QB than Manning would have taken 7-10 sacks. Special attention must be paid to defensing pass situations on 3rd and more than 4. The Chargers missed too many opportunities to get the Giants' offense off the field

Hidden Plays (non scoring, non turnover plays that directly affected the outcome):

Giants' DB Kevin Dockery runs into Darren Sproles after signaling a fair catch - moving the ball from the SD 15 to the 30. Despite the Floyd and Gates drops, this penalty helps the Chargers maintain field position.
Gates' 2nd drop stalls a drive in Giants territory - a catch would have put the Chargers at the edge of Kaeding's FG range.
Castillo blows up RG Chris Snee on 1st and Goal from the Chargers' 4, leading to a holding penalty and forcing the Giants to settle for a FG, instead of scoring a clinching TD.
Norv Turner's challenge of a completed pass results in an incompletion, forcing the Giants to kick a red-zone FG.
Coughlin passes on 2 4th-and-1 situations in Chargers' territory.
Giants are forced to stop the clock when DE Justin Tuck gets hurt with 50 seconds remaining.

Biggest Positives:

Resilience and poise in a critical game.
Reduced number of penalties.
Turner's end-game clock and timeout management.
The pass rush, with safety blitzes, and zone blitzes is getting to the opposing QB..
Short-yardage run defense was improved.
At 5-3, the Chargers have their best mid-season record under Turner.

Biggest Areas of Concern:

Run blocking is still a major issue.
Insistence on running out of power formations.
Although improved, NT position is not always effective at holding the point of attack.
Inability of the defense to get off the field in 3rd-and long situations.
Missed tackles.
Dropped passes.

Looking Ahead:

To beating the Eagles. The Eagles should not pose a major running threat to the Chargers, especially if RB Brian Westbrook has not fully recovered from his concussion. The Chargers are facing another blitz-happy defense; there's nothing Philadelphia should throw at them that they haven't seen from Baltimore, Pittsburgh, Denver, and the Giants. Getting C Nick Hardwick in the starting lineup should provide a major boost to the offensive line.

Chargers v. Giants - Clip Show's Perspective

2009-11-11T06:20:24Z

So, let me just say, this past weekend has to rank pretty high up there among all-time sporting event experiences for me. Now, I have been to quite a few sporting events in my lifetime (Super Bowl 27 in SD, 1998 World Series game 4, 2002 World Series game 7, all Charger home playoff games since 2004), but this game is near the pinnacle.

           I arrived at JFK airport on Friday morning at 6am after taking a redeye flight from Orange County. As I boarded the train into Manhattan, I knew this weekend had the potential to be either really great, or really disappointing. The first thing I noticed on the train was what appeared to be an odd abundance of Yankee fans wearing an array of Yankee gear. Now, I know the Yankees just won the World Series, but this was a little different. I had read the day earlier that the Yankees were going to have their victory parade that Friday afternoon, and with it being so early, I had hoped to miss any residual people traffic when I took the train in. Only after I boarded the train and found no seat available (for my hour trip into the city) did I come to the realization that I was completely mistaken. This was definitely NOT the way I wanted to start my weekend (especially considering I absolutely detest the Yankees too).
           On Saturday afternoon, some family members and I decided to go to Liberty Island and the Statue of Liberty. While waiting for the subway, I noticed a couple of guys wearing Chargers jerseys. We all boarded the same train, and they also happened to get off on our same stop. As we exited the subway, I asked the guys if they were going to the game and they said yes. They were from the east coast (not NY though), and I told them that I came out from CA just for the game, and they were impressed. This was my first sighting of people wearing Chargers gear, but definitely not the last. Things were looking up.
           We took a ferry to Liberty Island, and as we walked around the island, I noticed a few more people wearing Chargers gear. They appeared to already be excited for the game, because whenever they would see anyone wearing Chargers paraphernalia, they would call to them, give them high fives and yell "Go Chargers!". I was definitely not expecting that. But it was about to get even better. We waited in line for the next ferry to return to Manhattan, and as the ferry pulled in, a loud chant of "Let's go Chargers" rang out from ferry's top deck. There stood about 10 Charger fans wearing jerseys and all, yelling at the top of their lungs to all the Charger fans below waiting in line. It was awesome! People looked on, stunned as these rowdy Charger fans streamed off the ferry chanting and giving high fives. I had a feeling right there that tomorrow, game day, was going to be a great day.

           On gameday, I decided to take the train to the Meadowlands. At the train station, there were people everywhere wearing Giants or Chargers gear, with the ratio being about 5 to 1. I was dressed in my LT authentic home jersey, Chargers fleece jacket, Chargers beanie, and my Reebok Chargers shoes . People for the most part kept to themselves and everyone was pretty mellow. After a little train delay, we arrived at the Meadowlands, and the scene reminded me of the parking lot at the Q.
           The train to the stadium is a little unique in that it does an almost complete circle around the stadium before it stops, so you are able to get a pretty good view of the tailgating and stadium. For the most part, the place was packed, just as you would expect.
           I exited the train and now my priority was finding John. Smoke billowed upward from all the bbqs, radios were blasting, and not a Charger fan in sight. This is not good. I endured a little heckling and proceeded to make my way through the parking lot around the stadium. I am a pretty big guy (6'-2", 210 lb) so I was fairly comfortable walking around, expecting a little heckling while I searched for John.

As I reached some of the outer parking lots, I saw some more representation of the Chargers, which was definitely a little more comforting. Then I saw it. Four or 5 buses surrounded by a crowd of Chargers fans. This must be the tailgating party from MJ Armstrongs that I had heard about. It felt like I was in the Q parking lot for a second, but there wasn't much time for me to linger. I had to find John and get some beers in me; game time was only about an hour away.
After some more friendly heckling and more searching, I finally found John. A few beers later and I was in full tailgate mode. Patrick (calipatrick) and his fiancé ended up stopping by and we took some pictures.

(Patrick, his fiance, Mike, John and myself prior to the game)

Soon it was time to head into the stadium. John's friend Mike was accompanying us (as a bodyguard), and we had all consumed a decent amount of beers (some more than others). This was going to be fun.
Entering the stadium, Mike started heckling of his own. He starting chanting " J ...E....T...S....." or "Let's go Rangers!", and in typical New York fashion, people would tell him to shut the F up, or that he was a moron. All in good fun. The seats we had were awesome. Right around the 20 yard line in the second level.

(The coin flip)

John and I had a conversation about how Giants stadium was very similar to the Q (circular ramps on the outside, similar sight lines), except for the grass versus the artificial turf. It's almost ironic that the Giants (and the Jets) will be playing in a new stadium next year, and the Chargers will not. I guess that's the reward for winning a Super Bowl. The Chargers really need to get a new stadium deal done.
The game started and it was time to get serious. And by serious, I mean more beer drinking and more heckling from Mike. On one trip to the bathroom, a Giants fan even told me I needed to watch my friend (Mike) because he was going to get into trouble. Apparently this guy has never been to a Raiders v. Chargers game. Overall though, the Giants fans were well behaved and good-natured.

(Me, John and Mike)

Anyway, we all know how the game ended up. It was almost surreal to see our section half empty after the Chargers scored at the end, almost as if they all disappeared instantaneously as John, Mike and I screamed at the top of our lungs and celebrated the come from behind victory. As John mention in a previous post, the turnout of Charger fans was more than I think most people expected. And seeing Charger fans linger in the parking lot after the game savoring the victory made this trip that much better.

(The final play of the game...Luis Castillo pointing to the crowd as Shawne Merriman does his lights out dance, and Philip Rivers sprinting onto the field to join the celebration)

I want to thank John for the ticket to the game and for being the nicest guy I could imagine. Watching a game sitting next to him was truly enlightening. It is one thing to watch a game as a fan on your couch or in a bar, but watching with someone who is knowledgeable, is able to identify all the players on the field, recognize formations and plays, and generally "knows" football is almost like having the coach sit right next to you. It was an amazing experience and I thank you. John, when you come out for a Charger game, the beers are on me. And make sure to bring Mike as well, it wouldn't be the same without him.

Another week, another matchup of traded top picks

2009-11-11T05:11:15Z

Last week, much was made about that fateful day in 2004, when the fans lustily booed Eli every time his face popped up on the big screens around the stage. I was doing the same thing at my house, but I could only boo between fits of hysterical laughter as I watched that guy get the treatment he so richly deserved.

So naturally there was a lot of coverage of the matchup between these guys and much debate about who was better than who, and who would have the better game, etc.

This week we have a similar situation, where the particulars in a blockbuster draft day trade of two of the top 5 picks get to square off against one another.

That's right, I'm talking about the ol' 1 for 5, Vick for LT deal from 2001.

It's understandable that this matchup is not getting as much run as Philip/Eli, but I'm curious as to who you guys think will have a better game.

Personally, I think its a tossup whether Vick gets as many yards in his 2 or 3 snaps as LT will get all day (just kidding), but nevermind what I think. I want to hear the experts debate.

Poll

Which top five pick from the 2001 draft will have the most rushing yards on Sunday?

Bleeding Green Nation answers your Eagles questions

2009-11-10T22:13:35Z

I'm Jason from the Eagles blog Bleeding Green Nation and I'm here to answer your questions about the team ahead of this Sunday's out of conference matchup.

So put your questions in the comments and I'll check back with answers this week. Also, please Rec this post so that it stays towards the top of the page until Sunday.

Oh and watching your boys beating the Giants last week was fun!

Why the Chargers Won

2009-11-10T04:05:56Z

Yesterday's game was glorious. I am still exhausted from getting on the limo bus at 10 am and then tailgating until 4pm and getting back to Brooklyn at about 11. After working today it has been two full days. A longer narrative about yesterday will be forthcoming but I wanted to give my keys to the game. We won where we had to and took every advantage we could.

Penalties

We had 3 for 20 and they had 9 for 104. Our total offense was a mere 226 to their 304, but add the penalties and things look a wee bit more even. As the game continued, I noticed that the penalties kept us in the game.

Sproles

I am having a hard time finding the average starting yard-line for our drives but I would wager it was past the 30. By my count they only kicked to Sproles three times. Two kick offs and one punt. Every other time they kicked away from him and we made out like a bandit because of it. There were a couple of times we started our drives at or near the 50 yard line for no other reason that that they did not want the ball in Sproles’ hands. They have no confidence in their special teams. And we probably gained 10+ yards on most kicks because of it.

Defense

I love the Boricua himself, Ron Rivera, but have been really down on him lately. This game gave me a glimmer of where this team could go within the limitations of our players. I have been focusing on learning more about defense and defensive schemes as of late. I thought we ran a 3-4 and so did everyone else but during the first half there were many snaps where we had a 4-3. I was specifically watching to see what Rivera would call and (mostly) in the first half there was at least one extra person on the line. They may or may not have been in a three-point stance but the line had 4 or five people on it for most of the first half. Our outside linebackers were playing a glorified defensive end. This increased the pass rush and shows the confidence Rivera had in Jammer and Cromartie and Weddle. The second half things changed a little but the flavor was still there. Running a 4-3,3-4 hybrid. This makes a lot of sense to me as we lost the most important position to a 3-4, Jamal Williams. To compensate we posted a rotating nose and stacked the line with 4-5 people. Interestingly I only counted one time where four people actually were in the three-point stance in the game for a true 4-3.

In all, it was a scrappy game and I’m glad we came out ahead. This finish in this game reminded me a lot of the game in Seattle three or four years ago. We were losing, and a throw to Jackson in the waning seconds stole the game for us. I’ll post pictures and stories (of which there are many) tomorrow or the following day.

Congratulations from a Giants Fan

2009-11-09T04:43:49Z

Before this game, I always thought the chargers were an overrated team resting on it laurels in an underachieving (read: downright crappy) AFC West. I was at the game today, and I can tell you, the last two minutes, everyone in the stadium thought we were going to come up with a win.

Everyone but your QB of yours, Phillip Rivers.

In an outstanding performance, Rivers led an amazing, and Eli-esque come back. (I'm not sure how being eli-esque is perceived by charger's fans, but to most giants fans, eli is credited with being one of the most clutch qb's in the league). Despite a previous 3 and out where you lost yardage each time, Rivers bravely led you guys down the field, knowing nothing less than a td was needed.

If anything good could happen today as a Giants fan, there was one thing, and I will admit one thing I never thought I would say.

I have respect for Phillip Rivers

Predictions on the Giants Game

2009-11-07T16:47:15Z

You know what this is.

You know what to do.

Do it.

Bolts 31-24