San Diego Chargers: The new “Nightmare Season” continues
By John Burress
In the early 1970’s, Chargers owner Gene Klein hired UCSD Psychiatrist Dr. Arnold Mandrell to address the team’s drug use. In ’76, he wrote a book about his experience with the Bolts called “The Nightmare Season.”
There’s nothing going on this year to indicate anything resembling abuse of drugs, but it’s still been a nightmare! How could we lose so many games by so few points? Anyway, maybe it’s time to move on and look forward.
At times, I’ve been impressed with the depth of the Chargers this year, but alas, maybe it’s time to look at reality. Dontrelle Inman and Tyrell Williams have done an admirable job, but they’re not Keenan Allen and Stevie Johnson. Damion Square and others filled in well for Brandon Mebane and did a great job against the run Sunday, but we still missed Mebane’s presence. Chris Landrum is not Jerry Attaochu, and Craig Mager is not Jason Verrett. The list goes on.
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But enough lamenting past injuries; it’s time to move on. Is it already time to look to next year’s needs? Maybe, but first we need to examine this year’s team.
Of the pending Charger free agents, the Bolts probably need to re-sign Jahleel Addae, Melvin Ingram, Mike Windt and Square. They’ve earned it. Danny Woodhead, Inman, Tourek Williams and Phillips would be next, depending on how reasonable their contract demands are. We need to leave room for free agents and rookies, but on paper we still look pretty good. Health has been the biggest issue.
If we could have a reasonably healthy year, plays like the last one on Sunday when Philip Rivers threw the interception at the 1-yard line wouldn’t be necessary; we’d already have the game won. Look at the Raiders this year. Injuries yes, but nothing like the Bolts. If we continue to build and gain depth, we’ve got a chance… next year.
As for the rest of this year, every player should be saying, “I’m mad as hell and I’m not gonna take it anymore!!!” (movie quote from Network). Play your hearts out guys. Get a good base going into next year, as building momentum can’t hurt. Put an end to this nightmare!!
Draft and free agents?? What are our biggest needs? What do you think? Use the comments section below to let us know.