Chargers Secondary vs. Cardinals Passing Game

By Nick Lee
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Aug 7, 2014; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Chargers free safety Eric Weddle (32) looks across the line before Dallas Cowboys quarterback Brandon Weeden (3) gets the snap during the first quarter at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

The Chargers worked very hard to strengthen their pass defense this offseason. All they heard all winter and spring was that the pass defense was their demise in 2013 and would be again this year. The Bolts have a good first test tonight in the Arizona Cardinals. Carson Palmer and Larry Fitzgerald lead a passing attack that could be one of the most efficient in the NFL. Fitzgerald is always on his game and a seasoned veteran. Palmer may be passed his prime but he still can sling it. He actually had a career-high 4,274 passing yards and his 83.9 QB rating was one of the best in his career. They have another dangerous weapon through the air in Michael Floyd. He had 1,041 receiving yards and 5 TDs for the Cardinals in 2013.

It will be up to veteran Pro Bowl safety Eric Weddle and his secondary to put a stop to all the criticism. He is the glue that holds the pass defense together. This year, he has help. Fellow Pro Bowler Brandon Flowers and first-round pick Jason Verrett should sure up the defense. Weddle will have his posse ready for the veteran passing attack of Arizona. This matchup will be crucial in deciding who wins this win. If Weddle, Flowers and Co. can shut down Palmer, the Chargers will win. If Palmer has his way with the secondary, the Cardinals will win. Another key to the pass defense will be the pass rush. The Chargers need to pester Palmer all night so he does not find a rhythm with his talented weapons.

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