2010 NFL Preview-San Diego Chargers

2009 Results: 13-3

Lost in AFC Playoffs to the NY Jets 17-14

2010 Schedule:

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Overview:

The San Diego Chargers have been on the verge of a Super Bowl for several years running and at the risk of growing too old and letting a golden opportunity slip by, the Chargers looked to integrate youth into the roster and mix them in with experienced guys who can play. I'm not sold on Norv Turner being the coach who gets them to the promised land and so far in his career he hasn't done anything to prove me wrong in this belief. 

Offense:

Philip Rivers is the QB and Billy Volek is the backup. Rivers is in his prime and can air it out and is tough as nails. LaDanian Tomlinson is gone at running back and it's a new era in San Diego. The Chargers drafted Ryan Mathews from Fresno State who has the speed and the power to play every down and he'll probably start from day one though Darren Sproles will see plenty of action. Antonio Gates returned to his old effective pass catching self last season after a mini hiatus and Vincent Jackson made the Pro Bowl at Wide Receiver. San Diego's Offensive Line is solid but injuries have plagued the group over the last season. Even with the injuries they played well as Marcus McNeil played hurt often. The Chargers didn't add any depth to the line and I was a little surprised by the lack of action.

Defense:

As Tomlinson's departure marked the end of an era on offense, the departure of Nose Tackle Jamal Williams marked the end of an era on defense. While they aren't going to be able to just replace Williams, they are hoping newly drafter Cam Thomas can fill some of the void. Luis Castillo is a mainstay at Defensive End. Shawne Merriman took a big step backwards last year and he was banged up and not nearly as productive as he had been in the past. Shaun Phillips plays the other side but last year's first rounder Larry English has yet to become a regular in the lineup. Quentin Jammer and Eric Weddle roam the secondary but Antonio Cromartie is gone as the Chargers were fed up with having a player on their defense who simply couldn't tackle. San Diego went out and acquired Nathan Vasher and Donald Strickland and either or both could start at Cornerback.

Special Teams:

Nate Kaeding was the goat in the game that sent the Chargers home from the playoffs as he missed three field goals against the Jets. Mike Scifres can really kick the ball at Punter and Sproles is simply an awesome return guy.

Prognosis:

Once again the Chargers should be knocking on the door of the Super Bowl but their overall health should be the biggest determining factor. Rivers plays big in the big games and even with the youth infusion, the Chargers know they will only get so many chances.

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