This Los Angeles Chargers team is built differently
By Darrell Reese Jr.
Coming into the season I had the Chargers going 11-5 and facing the Los Angeles Rams in the Super Bowl.
Well, they went 12-4 and still have a chance at the bowl. I knew by the offseason acquisitions and the experienced players on the roster that this team was destined for something special.
I’ve been a Chargers fan since 2006, and watching this team over the years I can truly say that this team is built differently from the others. A lot of credit should be given to the coordinators. Gus Bradley has done an amazing job with his defense and making the proper adjustments for opposing offenses. Ken Whisenhunt, on the other hand, hasn’t figured this offense out just yet.
This offense is full of playmakers so you can understand that It would be somewhat tough to get everyone the ball. Keenan Allen, Melvin Gordon, Mike Williams and others demand the ball and it’s kind of tough getting them the touches they need. But at the end of the day, it’s a good problem to have.
A lot of credit has to be given to general manager Tom Telesco and his staff as well for taking Derwin James in the 2018 draft. James has exceeded all expectations and already has the skills to be an all-time great. Bradley’s defense is perfect for James to thrive in and make the needed plays for his team.
On the offensive side of the ball, Gordon and Philip Rivers are the engines that make this team move. Gordon has been banged up much of the season but he still manages to come up huge for this team. Rivers is having himself an MVP season but claiming that title is still up for grabs.
Though he didn’t finish the season too hot, Rivers is experienced and has the tools to lead this team to the Super Bowl.
With coaching, Anthony Lynn has done an amazing job and should be in the Coach of the Year conversation. It’s obvious that he has shifted the culture in the locker room and all the pieces are finally falling into place. Everything was built for this season and moving forward as well.
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Despite losing key players throughout the season, the team is getting back an All-Pro tight end in Hunter Henry. Though he didn’t play this season and will need to get in game shape, he still can take on a decoy role for the remainder of the playoffs.
Overall, the Chargers have the players to compete with any team in the league and so far, they have proven that. The fans are finally coming together and the players are truly believing they can go all the way.
I honestly feel that the only way this team loses is if it beats itself. Rivers has to play well and the offense as a whole has to be balanced. The defense played their best against Baltimore, so If I’m Bradley, I’d do the same exact thing against the New England Patriots.
Tom Brady is an all-time great but his game is somewhat on a decline. This Chargers team is ready and Sunday’s playoff game against the Patriots will prove that.