Bolts struggling to find consistency...
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by Dannygrz
To say that the San Diego Chargers are struggling is kind of an understatement at the moment. With their latest loss, 24-17 to Jacksonville, the Chargers' record fell to an even 5-5, not exactly up to par with last season's 14-2 record. Its been a roller-coaster ride for the Bolts so far as they won their first game, lost three in a row, won three in a row, lost, won and now lost again. They've shown flashes of last year's stellar play but the spirit has not been there for whatever reason. Reigning MVP LaDanian Tomlinson has been part of the reason for the Charger's struggles. LT has broken 100 yards rushing only twice this season in ten games, a noticeable difference from last year's ten 100 yard games. LT is on pace to rush for 1172 yards and 14 TDs averaging 4.2 yards per carry, great numbers, but less than what should be expected of him. Last year he had 1815 yards, 31 touchdowns and a 5.2 yards per carry average, and in the last 5 season he's averaged totals of 1588 yards, 20 touchdowns and 4.6 YPC. In fact if you take away LT's monster 198 yard, 4TD game against the Raiders he'd be on pace for only 951 yards, 9 touchdowns and a 3.5 yards per carry. Its become apparent that teams have focused on stopping Tomlinson and challenging quarterback Phillip Rivers to beat them through the air. Rivers has not been up to the challenge in leading the league in turnovers. His failure to protect the ball has spelled doom for the Chargers on several occasions already this season, including yesterday with two interceptions in the fourth quarter. With six games to go Rivers has already surpassed his interception and fumble totals from last season even though he's suffered less sacks. These escalating turnovers have to be very worrying to the Chargers brain trust. The Chargers defense failed to record a sack in yesterday's game demonstrating yet another difference from last season. Last season the chargers defense put constant pressure on the quarter back with Shawne Merriman and Shaun Phillips combining for 28.5 sacks. However, Merriman and Phillips have only combined for 11 sacks so far (5.5 each) in yet another dissapointment. The Chargers D has shown flashes, intercepting Peyton Manning six times, but if they don't get their pass rush back in order then they wont make it very far in the playoffs...
