Jan 17, 2010; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers (17) reacts after throwing a 13-yard touchdown pass in the second quarter of the 2010 AFC Divisional playoff game against the New York Jets at Qualcomm Stadium. The Jets defeated the Chargers 17-14.
I know it’s only April and we haven’t even seen the draft yet but I think it would be fun to make a prediction on how the Chargers season will turn out. I was kind of hesitant to do so at such an early date but I’m going to do it anyway so here goes.
Denver Broncos: Win; loss
I’m going to say that the Chargers split this series. Even though the Broncos were able to lure the services of one of the most prolific quarterbacks in NFL history, I’m not buying into the whole Peyton Manning hype. Denver won’t be as good as everyone thinks.
Oakland Raiders: Win; Win
Chargers sweep this series. I thought after the passing of Al Davis, the coaching carousel would end and Hugh Jackson would be the coach for at least a few years. I was wrong. This team is in disarray. No constistancy.
Kansas City Chiefs: Win; Loss
I’m predicting we split this series. I’m judging Romeo Crennel’s head coaching history and I’m not convinced that he is HC material but having said that, they have a very stout defense with Tamba Hali and it’s very difficult to win at Arrowhead.
Baltimore Ravens: Win
I think Turner has finally figured out how to beat Baltimore. They also lost their defensive coordinator to Indy so that will be a factor.
Cincinnati Bengals: Loss
The Bengals have always been a tough game for the Chargers no matter where they play. I think the Chargers drop this one.
Tennessee Titans: Win
I think this is a pretty even matchup so I’ll give this one to the Chargers only because it’s a home game.
Atlanta Falcons: Loss
The Falcons are a good team and will be pretty much the same team we’ve seen in the past. A well rounded team with a good running game. Even though it’s a home game, Chargers lose this one.
Carolina Panthers: Loss
Unless the Chargers get better at the cornerback position, Cam Newton will tear up our defense. Ron Rivera is familiar with how the Chargers play, I think we lose this one too.
Cleveland Browns: Win
This team has been bad for a long time now and this season is no different.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Loss
For the Chargers to win this game, one would have to say that they are as good or better than the Steelers and at this point, I’m not ready to concede that.
New York Jets: Win
The Chargers will be wanting to avenge last seasons loss. Jets are in transition and I have no confidence in Mark Sanchez.
New Orleans Saints: Loss
Even though with the bounty scandal and the loss of their coach, the Saints are still a dangerous team, especially with Drew Brees throwing the rock.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Win
The jury is still out on this team. I don’t think Vincent Jackson will be as effective there as he was here because of his average quarterback. Chargers can get this one.
So there you have it. Chargers end the season with a 9-7 record, one game better than 2011. Is that good enough to make the playoffs? It depends on how the rest of the division does. I don’t think they make it, therefore ending the Smith/Turner era.
My prediction, what’s yours?