Before each game I will be covering 3 players that need to perform well to help the Chargers come out on top. This week the Chargers face the Indianapolis Colts.
The Chargers are coming off a solid performance against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Game 3 will be an opportunity to show that the level of intensity seen last week can be recreated. In order for the Chargers to do that here are three players need to play big.
TE Hunter Henry
The Chargers could be down another weapon against the Colts. Antonio Gates is listed as doubtful going into Sunday’s game. I would be worried about the lack of Gates if it weren’t for the other pass catching tight end on the roster. Something Hunter Henry brings to the table that is the ability to both block and catch. Henry has proven his ability to block in the last two games, but his pass catching has yet to be put on display with only a single 20 yard reception coming in game one. With Gates out Henry will be turned to as a significant weapon in the Charger’s arsenal.
S Dwight Lowery
Dwight Lowery will be the safety net when the Chargers are playing zone defense. Lowery has found himself late in helping corner backs in both game 1 and 2 this season. The Colts wide receivers may be beat up, but they are fast, and their ability to take the top off a defense is well intact. Lowery needs to start making it to his assignments on time. With Jahleel Addae out with a broken clavicle a good performance by Lowery could be even more essential.
ILB Denzel Perryman
Denzel Perryman has been involved in the defense the last few weeks, but no the level we all hoped. This Sunday will be his chance to rebound. The Colts offensive line is one of the weakest in the NFL and should be maintained by the Chargers defensive line leaving Manti Te’o and Perryman to deal with the Colts running back Frank Gore. If Perryman can stuff the run the Colts will be forced to become one dimensional and throw against the Chargers. A scary task for any quarterback, even Andrew Luck.
Extra Credit
RB Melvin Gordon
Melvin Gordon couldn’t have picked a better time to start preforming well. With Danny Woodhead out for the season it is starting to look like Gordon is to become the feature back fans believed him to be when the Chargers drafted him. This will be a test for Gordon to see where his in game blocking and pass catching abilities are. Sure, the Chargers brought in Dexter Mccluster, but at least for this week we will get to experience what it will be like to have a full serving of Melvin Gordon.
S Dexter McCoil
Dexter McCoil is the candidate most likely to replace Jahleel Addae. He has looked promising in his limited role so far. Look for McCoil to capitalize on this opportunity. If he does, Jahleel Addae might not find his starting spot waiting for him when he gets back.