Raiders vs. Chargers: 5 Adjustments San Diego Must Make in the 2nd Half

In a battle that has huge playoff implications, the Chargers and Raiders are meeting in San Diego on Thursday Night Football. The AFC West is one of the most competitive conferences in the NFL this year. Whoever wins this game will be that much closer to a playoff berth. Here are five adjustments San Diego must make to take this pivotal matchup at home:

1. Philip Rivers

Rivers continues his sub-par play this week. He has thrown the ball very few times, and has only a couple of completions longer than 10 yards. He looks really bad out there, and has led the Bolts to too many three-and-out situations since they opened up the game with three points on the first drive.

2. Protect the QB

The story of Rivers' night has as much to do with his offensive line as with his arm. The Raiders defense has gotten the best of Rivers a few times, forcing him to throw the ball away. The San Diego offensive line has got to do a better job keeping the pass-rush from sending him scrambling.

3. Stop Michael Bush

The Raiders are without their best back, Darren McFadden, who was on his way to a monster season before being sidelined a few weeks ago. However, their No. 2 option at RB is no slouch either. Michael Bush has used his strength to push his way across the line of scrimmage too many times. The Chargers need to be prepared to defend the run with Carson Palmer continuing to struggle.

4. Pressure Carson Palmer

Speaking of Palmer, the Chargers pass-rush started strong, but is now giving him way too much time to set up and make calculated decisions. Palmer still seems a little uncomfortable out there. If they can get him scrambling, the defense may be able to force him into an INT or two.

5. Pass Protection

With Palmer getting comfortable, his WR corps has started to run roughshod over the Bolts' corners. He has two completions of longer than 40 yards, and has completed passes to five different receivers. The Chargers must do a better job of protecting the pass, especially the long ball.