Source: Chargers.com
Well, Game 1 of the Chargers 2012 season is in the books! Though they got the win, they still have some things to work on. Defense needs to generate some kind of pass rush. Even though they started getting a little push in the second half by the defensive line, there was zero pressure in the first half. The Raiders offensive line kept them in check for the most part. Cason was thrown to right away in the first half and throughout the game. He still needs to get his game turned around. Quarterbacks will be looking his way right off the bat after seeing the way he played last season. The Raiders were able to keep the chains moving when thrown his way, and Jammer had his side covered with good pass deflects.
Offensively, Philip Rivers had a good game – no interceptions for starters! But he was also smart with the football in key situations and not forcing touchdown throws when they were not there. The drive that ended with Malcom Floyd’s touchdown catch was awesome; everyone on the offense was able to make plays. Once Meachem and Rivers get more in sync with each other it is going to be fun to watch! That long pass was awesome! Eddie Royal was great to watch. The redzone offense will need to be improved upon; field goals instead of touchdowns against teams down the road will not fly at all. This leads me to the offensive line. They need to do a better job of opening up some running lanes for Brown, Brinkley, and McClain. There was nothing to run through in the game. That hurt them in the redzone; they cannot become one dimensional. I don’t think they will once they fix that problem. The return of Mathews should also improve the run game.
Source: NFL.com
Gates will be one to keep an eye on for sure with that rib injury. He looked like he wasn’t extending his arms out fully to make the big catches thrown his way like he usually does. Even though he toughed it out, you could tell he was still hurting. Hope the rib injury is not so serious. They need him to have a big season! It was the first game of 2012 so the team is still working through the kinks and finding their rhythm for a long season. As they say, a Win is a Win! Have a good week of practice, make improvements, and bring on the home opener and the Tennessee Titans!
it really looked like our conditioning payed off in this game cause the raider's side look like they were two puffs away from respirators lol
@tank58 LOL! It was the first game. All the players are not in full game shape.