Chances Chargers make the Playoffs

We all know that it has been a roller coaster for the Chargers this year and come playoff time a majority of their fans have no clue about the playoff picture and who is in and who isn't. The Chargers are 9-6 at this point in the season and are ranked 11 in Power Rankings. They play Andy Reid's Chiefs this Sunday at Arrowhead stadium. The Chargers  have to step up their running game and increase their defensive efficiency in order to beat them. Even after they beat the Chiefs they will have a tough playoff schedule. All in all the Chargers will have a long road ahead of them.

Wild Card on Field via Fansided

The Chargers started the season off 5-1, their best franchise start since 2002. After their five game winning streak, they cooled down and won a little under half of their games ultimately becoming 9-6. Although they made the playoffs with a 9-7 record last year, they will have to go 10-6 to clinch the last playoff spot. According to the NFL, the Chargers have a 50% chance of making the cut. The Texans, Ravens, and Chiefs are all in the hunt. Although the Chargers have the best odds for that spot, beating the Chiefs will not be an easy task.

Chiefs vs Chargers via Magnolia

The Chiefs have had their ups and downs this year similar to the Chargers, but are arguably overall better than the Chargers. The Chiefs showed a tendency to beat elite teams such as the Seattle and New England but tend to lower their standards when playing lower teams, such as Oakland.

The Chiefs do have one critical injury though, Alex Smith is out for the rest of the season and back up Chase Daniel will start. Although this benefits the Chargers enormously, this still doesn't eliminate their main problem. Jamaal Charles won't go down without a fight. Our defensive line has been decent at stopping the run this year, but Charles is not a decent running back, he is one of the few elite running backs that can out run anyone on the field, break tackles on a regular basis, and mess up your whole game plan. Luckily the Chargers have seen a big emergence of their second year line backer, Manti Te'o, who could play a big role in shutting down the Chiefs offense. The Chargers running defense will be one of the main factors.

Another factor that will determine the outcome is the Chargers own running game. The Chargers have not found one main running back this season. Mathews, Woodhead, Brown, and Oliver have all had playing time this year. The Chargers have to be smart on who gets the majority of the carries in the game. In my opinion, Branden Oliver is the best running back for this situation. Although he isn't as strong as Mathews and Brown, he is lightning fast and is the best receiver among the three. Oliver also started off strong early on in the season becoming a rookie sensation. In fact it was rumored that the Seattle Seahawks were interested in trading Marshawn Lynch for Branden Oliver. Of course this trade didn't go down, it wouldn't make sense for the Chargers to trade a young prospect with unlimited potential for an old veteran. The Chargers need a game changer for Sunday's game. I can not think of a bigger game changer on this roster other than Branden Oliver.

Chargers Defense after a play Via UT SanDiego

If the Chargers beat the Chiefs, they will play the Bengals in the first round, just like last year. Luckily for the Chargers the Bengals offense has been in a slump recently but unlike Kansas, their quarterback is healthy and have solid running backs of their own. The Chargers should repeat again this year and will be facing the Patriots instead of the Broncos this year. 

Chargers heading into locker room Via RantSports

Rough day for Rivers and the Chargers

Today, November 2nd, Philip Rivers and the Chargers got destroyed by the Miami Dolphins 37-0. Philip Rivers and the Chargers weren't able to score a single point against the Dolphins resulting in their first shutout this season. This is the third straight loss for the Chargers and fourth overall this season. Their overall record is 5-4.

This season was looking bright for San Diego a few weeks ago with a win over the 2013 Superbowl champs following a 4 game win streak. Rivers and the offense were functioning well and the defense was shutting down the opposing offense. But after the win against the Raiders it's been all downhill. They lost to two AFC rivals, the Chiefs and Broncos. This caused them to lose their playoff edge and confidence.

Today was arguably the worst game Philip Rivers and the Chargers have ever played. Losing to Ryan Tannehill's Dolphins 37-0. Rivers threw a total of three interceptions and even got benched in the fourth quarter giving back up quarterback, Kellen Clemons, a chance to throw. Rivers only completed 12 passes out of 23 attempts for 138 yards. The Chargers Running backs only added 40 yards. Hopefully the Chargers can get their act together for week 10 against the 0-7 Raiders.

Philip Rivers on the bench Via UT San Diego

If the Chargers play like they did toward the beginning of the season they can still make a playoff run. They might not be able to win the division but they definitely still have a shot at the wild card spot like last year. But in order to do that, they can't have anymore critical injuries and their passing and running game has to be spot on. That means no more performances like today's. The rest of the season will be challenging. The Chargers face the Ravens, Patriots, Broncos, Chiefs, and 49ers for the last five games of the season, all of them are elite teams. At best the Chargers go 11-5 and at worst they go 8-8. So don't give up hope San Diego, we're still in it.

Top Ten Chargers Players of All Time

Ever since the Chargers have started playing football, they have been an average football club with a career record of 413-404-11. That doesn't mean all their players are average. In fact they have hosted some of the best players if not the best players at their positions.

Honorable Mentions;
Although the Chargers have had great players, not everyone can be worthy of the top ten. Some Honorable Mentions are;

Nick Hardwick
Eric Weddle
Drew Brees
Shaun Phillips
Kris Deilmon
Darren Sproles
and Fred Dean.

These honorable mentions are elite players that have had or are having very successful careers. All have have helped the Chargers franchise one way or another and we thank you for playing.

#10, Leslie O'Neal;
Leslie O'Neal could've been the best Chargers defensive player of all time except for a certain someone who is also on this list. The Defensive End recorded twelve or more sacks with the Chargers seven times of his nine seasons. He is also the franchise leader in sacks and is tied for second for the most pro bowls played with Dan Fouts among Chargers players with six appearances. He also has two interceptions with the Chargers and one of them was a pick 6. The Chargers announced that he was going into the Chargers Hall of Fame on September 4 2014.

Leslie O'Neal about to strip Randall Cunningham Via 101orless

#9, Gill Byrd;

Gill Byrd was is the best Defensive Back in Franchise history. He leads the franchise in interceptions and interception yards. He has a total of 42 interceptions with his eleven seasons with the Chargers. For three consecutive seasons he caught seven interceptions. Even the taller and faster defensive backs of today have not been as good as Gill. He also averages thirteen interception yards.

Gill Byrd via ESPN

#8, Wes Chandler;

Wes Chandler is one of the best Wide Receiver in Chargers history. Wes had the most receiving yards and touchdowns in a seven year span in franchise history. In fact he is the only NFL to have 1,000 yards in eight games. Originally drafted by the Saints, Wes became a Charger in 1981 and played with Charlie Joiner and Kellen Winslow. He ultimately finished his career with San Francisco. 

Wes Chandler Via NFL

#7, Philip Rivers;

Philip Rivers was the number four overall pick in the 2004 NFL draft. The Chargers had the number one pick that year and drafted Eli Manning, brother of Peyton Manning. Eli Manning refused to play for San Diego so, the Chargers traded him to New York for, what would be come, a better quarterback. Ever since then Philip Rivers has been a star quarterback for San Diego. The five time Pro Bowler holds a number of Franchise and NFL Records. He won the NFL Comeback player award in 2013 and is one of the top runners for MVP this season. The future hall of famed might even bring home a trophy and a new piece of jewelry this year. 

Philip Rivers via Public Affairs

#6, Charlie Joiner;

Charlie Joiner is a hall of fame wide receiver who played ten seasons with the Chargers. He kicked off his career with the Houston Oilers and finished with the Chargers. He recorded three 1,000 yard plus seasons with the Chargers. Charlie's key to success was his silky smooth route running and timing. He also drew double coverage which led to other receivers getting open more often. 

Charlie Joiner via DRD

#5, Antonio Gates; 

Antonio Gates has been one of the greatest tight ends in the history of the NFL. The eight time pro bowler went zero to hero for the Chargers in 2003, originally undrafted. Gates has a total of 96 receiving touchdowns for the Chargers and a total of 9,610 yards.  In 2005 and 2006, Gates was selected as the NFL's All-Pro Tight End. The future hall of famer is having another All-Pro season this year and has even made history with Philip Rivers

Antonio Gates Via NFLplayerworkouts

#4, Dan Fouts;

Dan Fouts played his whole career with the Chargers over fifteen seasons. Fouts has over 43,000 yards and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1993. Dan was also a six time pro bowler and a three-time All-Pro. He has even won a MVP award. The third round draftee has been by far, the Chargers best quarterback. But, Philip Rivers is making a case he could be their best quarterback when his career is all said and done. His number (14) is retired by the Chargers.

Dan Fouts Via BBQSuperStars

#3, Kellen Winslow;

The Chargers hosted another one of the best tight ends to ever play the game, besides Antonio Gates. Kellen Winslow could've been the Best if his career was hurt by knee and back problems. Never the less, Winslow is a Hall of Famer and revolutionized the tight end position. He led the NFL in receptions in 1980 and 1981, and was a five time pro bowler.

Kellen Winslow Via Best Sports

Three way Tie for #1, Lance Alworth, Junior Seau, and LaDainian Tomlinson; 

The best Charger player of all time is highly disputed. The three candidates all have legitimate cases that make them the best. But, to name one the best Charger of all time would be like announcing which child is your favorite in front of the whole family. Alworth, Seau, and Tomlinson brought recognition, class, talent, character, and a face for the San Diego Chargers. All three Hall of Famers have or will have their numbers retired by the Chargers. 

LaDainian Tomlinson;

Tomlinson, nicknamed LT, is the youngest of the three retiring in 2012. LT is arguably the greatest running back of all time next to Walter Peyton. He played ten seasons, eight with the Chargers and two with the Jets. He rushed for 13,684 yards and recorded 145 touchdowns throughout his career. LT has also set an unbelievable amount of NFL records and awards. He was a five time Pro bowler and a four time All-Pro. He was a two time NFL rushing leader in 2006 and 2007.  He also won a MVP and is part of the ten thousand rushing yard club. LT is hands down the greatest Chargers running back ever.

LT Dance Via Joe Montana Arm

Junior Seau;

Junior Seau played in the NFL for 19 seasons with the Chargers, Dolphins, and Patriots. He played a majority of his career with the Chargers (12 seasons). Through out his career he recorded 56.5 sacks and 1562 combined tackles. He also has 18 interceptions. He was a twelve time pro bowler and an eight time All-Pro player. He was also an AFC Player of the year and Defensive player of the year. Unfortunately, Junior Seau commit suicide in 2012 out of depression. His number is now retired by the Chargers (55). 

Junior Seau Via LATimes

Lance Alworth;
Lance Alworth, nicknamed Bambi, was a Wide Receiver for the Chargers from 1962-70 and for the Cowboys from 1971-72. He had 10,000 plus yards and 85 TD's throughout his career. He played in seven AFL All Star games and was the first AFL star to be enshrined. He also set multiple AFL records for receiving yards. He has also won an AFL MVP and his number is retired by the Chargers(19).

Lance Alworth Via Chargers

Jason Verrett for Rookie of the Year.

Jason Verrett, a twenty-three year old rookie, has made a dramatic impact alongside the Chargers defense. The cornerback out of Texas Christian has already made a name for himself within the first half of the season. The Chargers selected him with the twenty-fifth pick of the 2014 NFL Draft. Jason received a lot of criticism from NFL analysts and scouts, but is now proving the haters wrong.

Jason Verrett Via Black Sports

Before his NFL days, and even division one college days, Jason Verrett graduated high school with zero college scholarship offers. He attended Santa Rosa Junior College in 2010 and was named to the All-Conference first team. The following year he attended TCU (Texas Christian University). He finished the remainder of his college career with TCU. He achieved First-Team All-Big 12 Honors twice (2012-13) and was named First-Team All-American in 2013.

Jason Verrett Interception Via NFL

Fresh out of college, Jason Verrett received a lot of criticism from NFL scouts and analysts due to his physical build. Jason is only 5'9 in height making him undersized and limited. Due to his height many believe he would have a hard time matching up against tall wide receivers such as Malcom Floyd. Jason made up for his size with lighting fast speed. In fact, he was tied for second amongst cornerbacks in the forty yard dash with a time of 4.38. He was also a top performer in the Vertical Jump, Three Cone Drill, and 20 Yard Shuttle. This made him a top performer in four out of the five total drills at the NFL Combine. Despite his performances critics still refer to his size as a disability. When draft night came, the Chargers drafted Verrett, despite the critics. The Chargers gave him a shot and that's all he ever needed.

Jason Verrett on Draft Night Via Chargers

Jason Verrett was a solid starting cornerback in his first few weeks in the NFL. He played light on his feet and matched wide receivers stride for stride. He allowed some catches but hey, who doesn't? Jason Verrett started to draw some attention with multiple pass deflections in his first couple games and playing, overall, great defense. Jason really amazed people with his game ending interception against the Oakland Raiders making the Chargers 5-1, the strongest start in franchise history. The young corner back has shown how much potential he has and silenced the critics.

Jason Verrett Diving Catch Via ESPN

I personally think Jason Verrett is going to be a great solid Corner for the Chargers. Who knows where he'll go, Pro Bowl?, Super Bowl?, Hall of Fame!? Only time can tell. But right now he is making a serious case for Defensive Rookie of the Year. With the number one pick, Jadaveon Clowney injured, who else can you think of that deserves this award? My answer is and always will be, Jason Verrett.

Branden Oliver, A Rookie Sensation

The Chargers undrafted rookie, Branden Oliver, has taken the NFL by surprise with his first two regular season games with the Chargers. Branden Oliver age twenty-three was originally drafted by the Colts this offseason but was never signed. Oliver spent four years at the University at Buffalo before the NFL. When the Chargers signed Oliver it was a great opportunity for him to learn the game through veteran running backs such as Ryan Mathews, Danny Woodhead, and Donald Brown. Little did fans know that he would soon become a key piece in their offense.

Brandon Oliver during pre game Via Roster Watch

Branden Oliver during his four years of college was an exceptional running back. Oliver had two, one thousand rushing yard seasons during his time at Buffalo. He also contributed thirty-three touchdowns over those four seasons, an average of eight and a half touchdowns a season.  Oliver also set a new school high previously held by James Stark with a total of 4,094 yards.

Brandon Oliver in College Via Tireball

After his college years, Branden Oliver entered the 2014 NFL Draft. Oliver was originally drafted by the Colts but was never signed. Oliver did not show up to the NFL Draft Combine held for rookies to showcase their skills to NFL teams. Oliver did however did participate in Pro Day which is similar to the NFL Combine. During his time at Pro Day he ran the 40-yard dash in 4.53 seconds which is respectable, but not elite. He also was able to bench twenty-six reps which would've tied for second best at the combine among running backs. Overall his physical gifts were well above average but his lack of height could've been a key factor on why teams thought he would be ineffective.

Brandon Oliver at Chargers Training Camp Via BigStoryStage

Overall the future is bright for San Diego and Branden Oliver is definitely a key contributor to this team. After Ryan Mathews, Danny Woodhead, and Donald Brown all went down with injuries, Oliver answered the call and was a key factor in the wins against New Jersey and Oakland. In fact in his first game, all of his rushes gained positive yards on nineteen attempts. So far Oliver has been 4-0 when put in a NFL game. If Oliver can keep up this kind of production there is no telling how well our offense will run! San Diego was home to arguably the best running back of all time and since then we have not seen the Chargers sign or draft an elite running back. There is no telling what this kid can do for this team if he keeps a clear head and focuses on what is important, winning.

Branden Oliver trucking over a Raider Via Espn

Nick Novak, The Franchise Kicker.

They are underrrated, under-appreciated, and maybe the least glamorous of all NFL positions. Each week, they do their only job asked of them: kick the football through the uprights. But their ability to kick the football through the goal post can determine the outcome of a regular season, playoff, or even championship game; if they make it, their team wins and they're heroes while if they miss, they're the reason for the loss. Either way, this is the life of an NFL kicker. For Nick Novak, the San Diego Charger kicker, his NFL career has largely been successful and is on track to break several team record.

Nick Novak Kicking Via The Coast News

Although a team's kicker may not be as exciting as the quarterback, running back, or linebacker, the positions is just as important. Kickers are responsible for adding an extra point after a touchdown or adding three points if the offense falls short of the end zone and decides to kick a field goal. Kickers are also called upon to win games. For example, in Superbowl XXXVII, Adam Vinatieri hit a game-winning field goal against the Carolina Panthers as time expired to win the championship for his New England Patriot team. Despite all that kickers do for NFL teams, there are only three kickers in the Hall of Fame. Two of those three kickers played another position in addition to being the team's kicker.

In late September of this year, Novak became the Charger's all-time leader in field goal percentage during the win against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Novak made four field goals and converted three extra points, scoring a total of 15 points for the team. His career kicking percentage is 82.4% (field goals) and 90.3% (extra points) during the four years he has been with the Chargers. Watch Nick Novak's post game interview becoming the franchise's most accurate kicker here on Chargers.com.

Nick Novak after one of his four field goals vs the Jaguars Via Espn

Nick Novak after one of his four field goals vs the Jaguars Via ESPN
Novak is not satisfied with just being the Charger's most accurate kicker. Last season, he was just two field goals short of matching the franchise's record of 23  consecutive field goals made in a season. This year, he is off to a hot start, successfully going 10 for 10 in field goal. If he can make, 14 more field goals, he will have set yet another franchise record. In an interview with ESPN, he said that,"I am blessed to do what I love in San Diego". But, we are just as blessed to have him play in San Diego. Having a kicker like Novak will definitely be key attribute for the Charger's success during the playoffs. Who knows, maybe he'll help bring a Super Bowl trophy to San Diego. Until he does, he'll just continue kicking and making field goals and extra points for the Chargers, continuing the ongoing saga of an NFL kicker...

Nick Novak vs Broncos via Zimbo

Brandon Flowers Defensive impact with the Chargers

Brandon Flowers, the former Kansas City Chief and AFC rival has made a huge defensive impact with the Chargers this season. Recruited by college teammate Eddie Royal, Flowers was released by the Chiefs this past offseason. The 28 year old corner back also made his first Pro bowl appearance last year. 

Brandon Flowers Training Camp 2014 Via Ut San Diego

Before his days as a Chief, Flowers attended and played football at Virginia Tech. Flowers played for all four years contributing ten picks and over 150 tackles. He was drafted in the second round by the Kansas City Chiefs. During his time at Virginia Tech, Flowers met Eddie Royal. Royal was a key reason why Flowers decided to join the Chargers. 

Brandon Flowers Virginia Tech Via Windy City Redneck

Flowers became a very successful cornerback during his time with the Chiefs. He played in Kansas for six years (2008-2013). Flowers had seventeen interceptions during that time. With his help, the Chiefs appeared twice in the playoffs, once in 2010 and once in 2013. He also made his first Pro Bowl appearance in 2013. After his Pro Bowl season, the Kansas City Chiefs released him making him a Free Agent. 

Brandon Flowers Interception vs Broncos Via; I Sport Web

When the Chargers picked up Flowers, fans and players were ecstatic. Influenced by Eddie Royal, Flowers felt a need of revenge when he signed with the Chargers, an AFC rival. Brandon noted, "That definitely played into the decision" when asked about playing his former team. He also noted “Just going back to  see some of the fellas, some of the coaches, it will definitely be fun.” Flowers signed a one year three million dollar contract. With this addition, Eric Weddle and Flowers are going to be dangerous this year. The Chargers needed another elite defensive player to be considered "lethal". Now that they have Flowers, they now have an elite offense and defense. 

Flowers and Royal at Training Camp Via Chargers

Brandon Flowers has made a huge impact this season. In fact he had six tackles and a key interception against the Jaguars today (9-28-14). The Chargers only allowed fourteen points against the Jaguars who started Blake Bortles, the third overall pick of the 2014 draft. In my opinion, Flowers will be a key attribute in the playoffs for the Chargers. If the Chargers' defense had played like this they may have gone to the AFC championship game.

Flowers interception vs Jaguars Via ESPN