Key takeaways from Chargers’ 20-6 win over Raiders
By Darrell Reese Jr.
Once again the Los Angles Chargers show dominance against their AFC rivals.
Their first contest ended with a final score of 26-10. This win was no different but the Bolts did hold the Oakland Raiders to zero touchdowns while holding them to just one the last time they faced off.
Here are my key takeaways from the Chargers win over the Raiders:
Melvin Gordon
Melvin Gordon has shown this season that he is a top 5 running back and the win against Oakland proved just that. Gordon had a total of 165 yards and one touchdown on the day. Gordon had multiple big plays throughout the game but one that stood out was his 66-yard catch-and-run touchdown late in the game to push the lead for the Chargers.
Michael Badgley
Michael Badgley was given the keys to the kicking job after the team cut Caleb Sturgis after the win against the Seattle Seahawks. Badgley came into this game perfect and left the game perfect on field goals this season.
The kicker went 2-for-2 on field goals and 2-for-2 on extra points while kicking a 42-yarder. Badgley also set a team record for points scored by a kicker in team history through the first three games of his career without a missed kick. I think the Chargers have found their kicker.
The defense
The Chargers had that bend but don’t break mentality throughout the entire game. Defensive back Derwin James showed up and showed out for his team, racking up nine total tackles and was flying all over the field the entire game.
Linebacker Jatavis Brown quietly had himself a good game as well, leading with 11 total tackles on the day. Despite still not have Joey Bosa, this Chargers’ defense is playing pretty good, so it’s going to be very interesting to see how they play once he comes back.
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Play-calling
The Chargers have had some question marks on play calling during the season. During the first half, the Raiders managed to keep the game close but the Chargers’ coaching staff made some second-half adjustments to secure the win. I credit defensive coordinator Gus Bradley for switching guys around and letting them play to their strengths.
Overall, this team can compete with any team in the league and I’ve got a feeling they haven’t played their best just yet. Defense has to continue to play lights out and get pressure on the quarterback as well as create turnovers. The offense is in good shape, it’s all about being consistent with the running and passing game.