Charagers-Steelers Notes

Here we go again..... Another do-or-die game for the Chargers, another nail biter, and then me sitting on my couch just trying to not have a heart attack.

A few quick points on the game before the big day itself, and also a couple questions that have kept me wondering.

• How will the sloppy field affect Sproles's running?

My first thought was that with all his quick moves and cuts, the muddy surface would have him slipping and sliding all over the place, but after a longer look I've also begun to think that he will still have an advantage over defenders. If Darren gets into open space running towards a defender, a quick move be all that was needed to take out a stationary defender.

• How big of a role will Michael Bennett play?

Personally, I'm pretty excited to see Bennett have an expanded role with Sproles. I've always been a little bit of a fan of Bennett, and I think our multi-headed running game with Bennett, Sproles, and perhaps a little Hester could have a good day against the Steelers if the weather is not so bad that the passing attack is limited.

As you can see I'm quite concerned about our running game, and I believe if we can get any sort of rhythm going against the Steeler's #1 run defense then we could take this game easily. I don't think LT's injury will be too much of a factor and our commitee can more than pick up the slack. I am concerned anout Pittsburgh's offense a little, however, and with Willie Parker a lot healthier than he has been, as well as the news that Big Ben is good for the game, the much less heralded Steeler's offense could be a factor.

Nate Kaeding and Antonio Gates look as though they will suit up just fine, and maybe it's a pity that Gates doesn't get injured every week with the way he played against the Colts. Gates will certainly be important to this game and it will be vital that the ball is given to him early and often.

Another important key to this game is keeping the Steeler's ball hawking secondary at bay. Troy Polamalu is a beast, and you better bet that he will capitalize on any mistakes by Philip. We need to use the large size advantage of our receivers to their corners, especially in the redzone as we did not score any touchdowns against them earlier in the season.

Heres hoping to a great game where we don't commit turnovers, do capitalize on oppurtunities, not get screwed by refs, not kill ourselves with penalties, or be struck down by divine forces.

GO CHARGERS!!!

Post Game Notes

Chargers keep their running streak going on into the playoffs and subsequently end the Colt's nine game streak coming into the game. On offense Philip managed the game efficiently other than an unfortunate interception and the running game excelled in LT's absence with Sproles, and even Bennett getting in on some carries. Antonio Gates played well through a high ankle sprain with 8 catches for 87 yards and stayed in the whole game even though LT, who was supposedly more likely to play, left the game midway through the first half. One thought is that the Colts dismissed Antonio Gates due to his weekly status entering the game and instead decided to focus on Vincent Jackson. The Colts game planned for Vincent Jackson, who did not have a catch, which is an area for concern. Chris Chambers though, emerged from the shadow of animosity where he has been for much of the season for a 4 catch 57 yard contribution. The Chargers will have to find other receivers like Chris Chambers, such as Legedu Naanee if teams continue to double team Vincent. The defense played extraordinarily limiting the Colts to only 7 points in the sceond half and 17 overall. Each week with Ron Rivera the D seems to be getting better and made some crucial stops in this game. If the Ravens win tomorrow then the Chargers will be playing the Steelers, and the Titans if the Ravens lose.