NFL 2012-2013 Season Predictions: Is It Philip Rivers' Turn?

The draft class of 2004 produced a trio of quarterbacks that have had solid careers in the NFL; Ben Roethlisberger, Eli Manning and Philip Rivers. Combined they have posted a starting record of 212-116 (.646 Winning Percentage). Two of the three have super bowl rings and combined they are 4-1 in super bowl games. The cycle will be complete with a super bowl victory by Philip Rivers. Is it his turn?

Unlike Ben and Eli, Philip did not start immediately; he sat behind a very solid Drew Brees for two years before finally getting his opportunity, and he has taken full advantage of the opportunity. He has gone 63-33 (.636 winning percentage) in his career with the Chargers. He has passed for 4000+ yards in each of the last four seasons.

He also has a 163-78 touchdown-to-interception comparison. Eli's touchdown-to-interception comparison is 185-129 and Ben's is 165-95. Phillip has produced some impressive numbers for the Chargers, yet they have missed the last two postseasons.

The inconsistency of the offensive line and the numerous concerns on defense have been contributing factors to the lack of postseason appearances. However, Rivers needs to realize that the window of opportunity will not be open that much longer. Going into this year Philip is currently 30 years old, and with age comes challenges.

The next generations of quarterbacks are in line and awaiting their turn to be great. You have Matthew Stafford, Sam Bradford, Cam Newton, Matt Ryan and now potentially Andrew Luck and Griffin III. If he does not put his best efforts forth to win a ring this year, he could find himself without one.

AJ Smith made some big moves this summer to help Philip by stocking up on the defensive side and stabilizing the Offensive line internally. AJ also replaced Vincent Jackson with a wide variety of talent with receivers Meachem, Royal, Parrish, Spurlock and rookie Green.

Antonio Gates has been reported to be healthy for the first time in a while, and one could see glimpses of that in their first preseason game on the post-pattern that led to a touchdown. The time is now.

Rivers must take advantage of the great setting and what will probably be a final opportunity for him and Norv to finally get over the hump. The Chargers have a legitimate chance. Rivers has to ensure that he is not forcing the situations and let the game come to him.

Otherwise, he could end up retiring the next "Dan Marino" of the NFL; a quarterback with phenomenal stats but no ring to show for it. With Eli at two rings and Ben at two rings, will Philip get one?