NFL.com Discusses Gates/Rivers Discussion

NFL.com had a Gates/Rivers discussion on their instant debate yesterday to discuss which player is more valuable to the Chargers. I wonder if they saw the same topic that we had up and running here the day before? ?

Anyway, the response was unanimous. Philip Rivers has more value to the Bolts, but it is definitely a blessing to have both on the team. Here are some of the highlight notes for each player:

Philip:

He is a top-five quarterback with everything but the ring to show for it.

Rivers is a fulcrum of an offensive machine with his hands on the ball 50, 60 snaps per game.

Gates played in only 10 games, Vincent Jackson missed a majority of the season, and Rivers still challenged Dan Marino‘s single-season passing record before falling off the pace later in the season.

At 29, Rivers is arguably the best deep-ball thrower in football, a player capable of lifting the level of his teammates, and one of the most respected leaders in the game.

Antonio:

Gates might go down as the greatest tight end ever, better than former Charger Kellen Winslow.

Gates is among the most talented tight ends the game has ever seen.

Gates is rare and versatile enough to impact all areas of the game. A defense has to decide whether or not to treat him as a tight end or a receiver — which impacts its fronts and personnel — and Gates is a perfect player to bust an eight-man front or keep teams from lining up in them in the first place. He makes play-calling easier for a coach and play-making opportunities for teammates more plentiful in that way

The fact that you actually have to think about it for a minute is testament to Gates‘ greatness

If you missed it, here is the NFL.com article: