Antonio Cromartie: Debunking the Myth of a Poor '08

(Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images)

To compound the problem, former defensive coordinator Ted Cotrell continued to play cover three and off-man coverages. These coverages force a cornerback to backpedal, plant and close on virtually every snap. Cromartie's hip injury prevented him from playing these coverages to his abilities.

Cromartie's second half was much improved, as his hip healed and the pass rush improved. Another factor was Ron Rivera, who put Cromartie in more press coverages, both man-to-man and Cover Two.

This difference in coverages greatly reduced the amount of times Cromartie was forced to backpedal, plant, and close on receivers. Cromartie was allowed to play to his strengths while limiting the effects of his hip injury.

The difference showed, as teams rarely threw at Cromartie in the second half of the season. Cromartie finished the year particularly well, with strong outings against the Raiders, Buccaneers, Broncos. Against the Colts in the playoffs Cromartie was a true shutdown corner—the Reggie Wayne touchdown was Rivera's fault.

The only thing Cromartie didn't do in the second half of the season was deliver big plays, mainly interceptions. Again, many fans perceived this as poor play, when in fact he was rarely tested.

While Cromartie didn't have his best season in '08, it shouldn't be considered poor.

The whole unit struggled, especially the pass rush. Opposing offenses realized that Cromartie was not the weak link, and spent more time attacking the rest of the Chargers defenders.

2009 should see the return of big plays from Cromartie and the Chargers. 

The pass rush should be ferocious. All-Pro linebacker Shawne Merriman returns and the team added first round draft pick Larry English, who is another pass rushing demon.

And coach Rivera gets to install his defense in training camp, which will be predicated on pressuring the quarterback and forcing turnovers.

Expect Cromartie to regain his form, as both an interception machine and fan favorite.

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