There’s a new QB in town… actually, not new, but never really used… and he’s ready to prove that his draft stock was justified.  Philip Rivers gets his chance to earn his big bucks of a contract with the departure of Drew Brees to the New Orleans Saints.  Rivers will have a tough time of it as the WR corp is either old (Keenan McCardell) or average (Eric Parker). 

Luckily for Rivers, he’ll have two strong weapons at his disposal in RB LaDanian Tomlinson and TE Antonio Gates.  It was only three seasons ago when Tomlinson had himself 100 receptions for the Chargers, and while it’s decreased since then thanks to the surprise arrival and effectiveness of Gates, it’s not out of the question for Tomlinson to become double trouble for defenses once again.  Last season, Gates proved that his first year wasn’t a fluke and even though Brees is gone, Gates has the ability to jibe with anyone, so I wouldn’t doubt him again.  Even with a new QB.

You have to love the front seven of this group.  The Chargers placed first in rush defense and have the horses to get to the opposing QB.  NT Jamal Williams is excellent at causing havoc in the middle and allowing his teammates to make plays.  Last season’s rookies, DE Luis Castillo and LB Shawne Merriman didn’t play like rookies at all and both have a chance to be special, particularly Merriman.  ILB Donnie Edwards is still underrated by many and when his candidacy for Canton comes up, don’t be surprised if he quietly gets in.  Look at the numbers.  I can’t believe the Chargers are trying to trade this guy.

The secondary is this defense’s weakness, for sure.  Their two corners can’t pick off passes for anything as Quentin Jammer and Drayton Florence combined for two INTs all of last season and gave up too many catches.  For the Chargers’ sake, hopefully, this year’s first-rounder, Antonio Cromartie from FSU can do some things.  As far as their safeties go… umm, they’re not “safe” at all, and I’m talking about the Chargers’ D if they’re counting on Terrance Kiel, Marlon McGree, or Bhawoh Jue.

Having Tomlinson and Gates helps the Chargers a lot, particularly Rivers as he won’t be counted on as much to make plays.  The defense’s front seven is very good and will need to get to the QB in order to cover for their secondary’s ineptitude.  In the end, I believe the Broncos are just too good and have less holes and questions than the Chargers.