Five Questions for Philip Rivers

Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers finished the 2007 season as one of the least popular players in the NFL. His exchanges with rival players and fans painted him as a villain to many people.

To make matters worse, Rivers struggled that year with a mediocre 82.4 quarterback rating and 15 interceptions.

Last year, however, Rivers made great strides on the field. The signal caller tossed for 4,009 yards and 34 touchdowns. His critics were silenced, and even Rivers himself, seemed to be a little less talkative and controversial.

Here are five hot-bottom questions for the Chargers franchise player:

1. Are you misunderstood? It seems like some people want to paint you as a chippy smack talker on the field. Is that who you really are?

2. Who is better, you or Eli Manning? Do you have a personal rivalry with the quarterback who spurned San Diego and was traded for you?

3. Do you feel pressure to keep up with Drew Brees? Were you surprised the Chargers let him go and kept you after Brees had made a Pro Bowl with the Chargers?

4. When Norv Turner was hired, some folks said it was going to be the best thing that ever happened to you. Turner is credited for being a quarterback guru. Has Turner helped your game more than Marty Schottenheimer?

5. What did Jay Cutler say that the media and TV cameras didn't catch during your guys' exchange in the Christmas Eve game in 2007?