San Diego Chargers: State of the Franchise—2009

(Photo by Al Messerschmidt/Getty Images)

Offense

Last season was considered a down year for LaDainian Tomlinson. Injuries hampered his production and gave way to inconsistency throughout the year, and he collected a “meager” 1,536 yards from scrimmage and 12 total touchdowns.

But hey, it’s tough to have a better season than his record-setter in 2006, where he had 2,323 yards from scrimmage and set the single-season record for total touchdowns with 31.

Although it’s safe to say that Tomlinson’s best years are behind him, there’s no question that the future holds a bright horizon for franchise quarterback Phillip Rivers, who posted a league-best quarterback rating of 105.5 last season.

It’s becoming increasingly clear that Rivers has the right tools to lead his team to victory on the strength of his arm, though it doesn’t hurt to have a feature back like Tomlinson who excels at catching passes out of the backfield and pass-blocking.

It also doesn’t hurt to have tight end Antonio Gates, who posted respectable numbers last season despite also being slowed down by an injury early in the season. With him back at full health, the options open right back up for Rivers and the offense.

Despite posting only 59 catches last season, Vincent Jackson picked up a whopping 1,098 yards. His seven receiving touchdowns last season were second only to Gates’ eight. At 6’ and forever,” with the amazing athleticism he has displayed, Jackson has slowly but surely molded into the top-flight receiver the Chargers always thought he could be when they drafted him in the second round in 2005.

Of course, it all starts with the monstrous offensive line the Chargers have built over the years. Center Nick Hardwick and guard Kris Dielman have been landmarks of the Chargers’ between-the-tackles running game for years, and have held their own in pass blocking situations to afford Rivers time to throw.

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