3 bold predictions for the LA Chargers defense in 2022
By Jason Reed
3. The LA Chargers are top 10 in points and yards allowed in 2022
This might not seem like that bold of a prediction as the Chargers could finish ninth or 10th in yards and points allowed and barely be in the top third of the league. While that is true, finishing in the top 10 in both yards and points allowed would reflect a massive improvement for the Bolts compared to last year.
The 2021 Chargers had massive problems on defense that piled up with every injury, big or small, the team suffered. An already thin defense was tested and it was ultimately the reason why the team missed the playoffs. When the dust settled, the Chargers ranked 29th in points allowed and 23rd in yards allowed.
They were a bottom-10 defense in both stats while also being the worst team in the entire league when it came to making stops on third down. Despite that, the Chargers went 9-8 and were one barely-dropped Mike Williams pass in Week 18 from making a playoff run.
The Chargers had a top-five offense in the league last season and that is not going to change. In fact, the Bolts might end up with the best offense in the sport with the improvements that were made on that side of the ball. If Brandon Staley's squad can follow that up with being a top-10 defense in the league then they are going to win a lot of games in 2022.
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The mix of a better run defense, a deeper secondary and a defense that can force more takeaways is going to result in great things for the Bolts in 2022.