With the Antonio Gates drama settled the key components for the Charger offense are in place, the defending AFC West Champions are out to prove that last year was no fluke.
Their first two preseason games have shown the run-blocking of the Chargers looks to have improved. Tomlinson has ran the ball one time...for a 55 yard touchdown, otherwise has been on the sideline...which is right where he should be during the preseason. But besides Tomlinson's one long run, Micheal Turner and Darren Sproles have also ripped of several impressive runs. For years, including last year, Tomlinson has often had minimal blocking and has had to work for every yard he gained. With better up front blocking he should remain healthier and run better. Tomlinson, during the last preseason game, was interviewed on what his expectations are for the upcoming season and he said his goal was to rush for over 2,000 yards and more specifically, 2200. I'd love to see it and barring injury, I think it could be a possibility.
Other preseason notes:
Second round pick WR Vincent Jackson has been hurt for the first two preseason games, looks like he may get some playing time in tomorrow's game against the Vikings.
Nate Kaeding, after missing 3 field goals in the first preseason game was dead on in the second game...we'll keep an eye on him to see if he has shook off the 'rust' and can be the reliable kicker the Chargers hoped he could be.
Initial word from Schottenheimer regarding tomorrow's preseason game is that most starters will play sparingly. And I have no problem with this. Some fans, media, etc. put too much emphasis on the preseason. I have no problem if the Chargers lose every preseason game, the regular season is what matters.
For more on the Chargers...to relive the Antonio Gates drama... go here.
Comments (4)
You're right, the regular s... (Below threshold)1. Posted by Michelle | August 29, 2005 12:20 PM | Score: 0 (0 votes cast)
You're right, the regular season definitely matters more. Fans put so much emphasis on the preseason though, because they feel it'll be a precursor as to what will come. Im sure many are even superstitious about it. If you've got time, you should jump over to associatedcontent.com. Check out their sports section. Its worth the visit.
1. Posted by Michelle | August 29, 2005 12:20 PM |
Score: 0 (0 votes cast)
Posted on August 29, 2005 12:20
2. Posted by Kevin | August 30, 2005 1:30 AM | Score: 0 (0 votes cast)
I went to the Rams game at the Q. They looked awesome in the first half. Bring on the Cowboys :-).
Must go pickup the second string TE to fill in for Gates in my fantasy league...
2. Posted by Kevin | August 30, 2005 1:30 AM |
Score: 0 (0 votes cast)
Posted on August 30, 2005 01:30
3. Posted by randy moss rocks | September 8, 2005 3:39 AM | Score: 0 (0 votes cast)
It was already proven to be a fluke in last year's playoffs. They won't go .500.
3. Posted by randy moss rocks | September 8, 2005 3:39 AM |
Score: 0 (0 votes cast)
Posted on September 8, 2005 03:39
4. Posted by John Curlee | September 10, 2005 6:02 AM | Score: 0 (0 votes cast)
When the Chargers win the west again it will show us that last year was not fluke. They have every starter on offense and defense back this year. Plus they have the best runningback in the league. Look for the bolts to seek trade options for Rivers during the season.
4. Posted by John Curlee | September 10, 2005 6:02 AM |
Score: 0 (0 votes cast)
Posted on September 10, 2005 06:02