San Diego Needs A Super-Charged Start Towards A New Season

It's been quite the task for the Chargers to get thru the AFC.  This year will be no different.  The Positives: Shawne Merriman is healthy, LaDainian Tomlinson signed a 3-year deal and Philip Rivers still has the ability lead the Chargers deep into the playoffs.   

After a year with just one game under his belt, Merriman is back.  Healthy, anxious and ready.  His "Lights Out" destruction is much needed to help stop teams like the Steelers and Patriots.  His 39.5 career sacks can strike fear in opposing players.  Along with Merriman, Defensive Coordinator Ron Rivera has his first full season with the defense. The Former Bears Defensive Coordinator has progressed, having the Charger finish 6th in rush defense in the AFC, a place better than the previous season.    

They signed a new 3-year deal for LaDainian, so the big question now is will he play like we all know he is capable of playing?  LT had some key injuries(to his toe and groin) that affected him in last year's playoff run.  The Chargers need to see the Tomlinson of old, the MVP LT, the explosive back that broke Emmitt's career rushing record, the Ladainian Tomlinson that STILL has the potential to be the best back in the game.  

Philip Rivers may not act accordingly on the sidelines, but on the field there is no doubt the 3rd year starter is a stud.  Posting a 25-7 record in his first two seasons as a starter and the phenomenal 15-1 record at home are signs that he do more than just lead the team.  He marched the Bolts to the AFC Championship in his first year under center and last year fell a game short in returning to it.  This years squad can charge their way back into the playoffs if Rivers and LT continue to lead the way.  

Norv Turner should be concerned about the defensive side of the ball.  They gave up over 21 points a contest and 25 touchdown passes throughout the season.  The most allowed by a Charger defense since 2003.   If defensive coordinator, Ron Rivera can get these Chargers looking like the Bears of old, it will make life a lot easier for the offense.  The AFC West was a 500 division last year and with only Kansas City doing major off-season revisions, San Diego can be the favorite to win the division.    

After finishing off the regular season on a 4-game streak, they have some momentum starting the new season. The Chargers are going to have to show their grit and determination right out of the gates to start the season.  We'll see how they fare up until their buy in week 5 after hosting the Ravens in week 2 and playing at Pittsburgh in week 4.  I see the Chargers making another playoff appearance as they finish their regular season against 6 teams with a combined 40-55 record from last season.