Expecting Big Things From Philip Rivers
By Ernie Padaon
June 11, 2013; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers (17) walks with players during Chargers minicamp at Chargers park. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY SportsOn this awesome Father’s Day, what better player to talk about then the father of 17 kids, Philip Rivers. This is a big year for Philip. HUGE. Some analysts believe that his play will determine if he will be in San Diego next season.
San Diego Chargers head coach, Mike McCoy, believes in Philip and has said it often. He believes that Philip can have a breakout season with the new coaching staff. He has a ton of confidence in Ken Whisenhunt to design an offense to take advantage of Philip’s skillset. McCoy and Whisenhunt believe that Philip will complete over 70% of his passes this season.
This whole offseason started with the main goal of getting help for Philip. After free agency and the draft, I feel that the Chargers have upgraded all over the offensive side of the roster. The receiving unit is strong and deep. Danario Alexander is here for a full season and he meshed well with Philip. Malcom Floyd still will be doing Malcom Floyd things. Back from injury is Vincent Brown. Having Brown back is like picking up a possible Pro Bowl receiver. He has that much potential. Keenan Allen also has that ability and potential. Even Robert Meachem should be able to beat defenders as the 5th best option on the roster. The receiving unit will be strong.
Antonio Gates still is impressing reporters during OTAs and mini camp. He still has amazed people with his athleticism and speed. They seem to report that every offseason. With all the other options in the passing game, Gates should feel a little relief off of his shoulders. The other receivers should be able to take some of the attention away from the star tight end.
In the red zone, Philip will be able to toss the ball out to his tall targets: Gates, M80, DX, or Allen. Gates, M80 and DX are all 6-foot-5. Allen is 6-foot-2 and knows how to win jump balls. Even the shorter Vincent Brown will work to win jump balls and make the spectacular happen.
Hopefully Philip can get some help in the running game from Ryan Mathews. If Mathews were to falter, Danny Woodhead would get a ton of reps. There are options. Mathews has the potential to be great. He has the potential to be a huge threat on offense.
With the new guys on the offensive line, Mathews should get some big lanes created for him. He can break off some huge chunks of yards running the football.
Things are looking up for Philip Rivers and the offense. This offense will no longer be a weakness like it was last season.