LA Chargers: Five keys to beating the Broncos

DENVER, COLORADO - NOVEMBER 01: Quarterback Justin Herbert #10 of the Los Angeles Chargers looks to pass against Shelby Harris #96 (not pictured) of the Denver Broncos in the second quarter of the game at Empower Field At Mile High on November 01, 2020 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images) /

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(Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

2. Find ways to manufacture pressure without Joey Bosa

With Joey Bosa and Uchenna Nwosu out in this game, defensive end depth is really, really thin. Melvin Ingram was placed on IR just a few weeks ago, officially shutting him down for the season.

That leaves Isaac Rochell and Jerry Tillery as the two main defensive end contributors. Rochell has played pretty well to his credit opposite of Bosa in the last few weeks (obligatory reminder to tweet WPMOYChallenge + Rochell).

Rochell and Tillery combined for seven pressures against the Raiders last week. Even if they don’t pile up sacks, getting in Drew Lock‘s face and hitting him will be important.

Sacks have been hard to come by all year, but the Chargers at the very least have to set the edge against the run in addition to making Lock uncomfortable.

With no Ingram and likely no Bosa in these last two games, it’s kind of an open audition for whoever wants more playing time next year. Seize the opportunity.