Hey Falcons fans! Short week for you guys, I know, which means we only have a few days for me to answer your questions about the San Diego Chargers before they host the Falcons on Sunday.
I've watched each of the Falcons first two games, partly because I was scouting your favorite team and partly because I was rooting for them to help the Chargers win the AFC West. Here are my takeaways:
- In a lot of ways, this team reminds me of Peyton Manning's Colts teams. The passing game can beat you in every conceivable way (deep passes, underneath routes, screen passes, passes to the TE once he finds a hole in the zone coverage, etc.) and Matt Ryan seems nearly unsackable, the way Peyton used to be (and maybe is?).
- That Colts comparison isn't all daises and lollipops, though. The running game, which I'm usually terrified of, seems pedestrian (but I think it'll get better). The Chargers' run defense has looked stellar on top of that, so I think the Bolts can win this matchup.
- The Falcons' pass rush and secondary have not impressed me. Neither has their run defense. I was a fan of the former until Brent Grimes got injured, and now I view both as weaknesses. Like the old Colts teams (and most of the Chargers teams of the last 5 years), the defense will need a lead to be effective. Also, I'm blaming those interceptions last night on Manning being confused and forcing passes due to rust. Rivers has been good about not forcing passes and throwing to his check-down receivers this year.
So there you go. I think the Chargers will be okay offensively against a Falcons defense that ranks somewhere between average and above-average. I think the Chargers' run defense will help produce a third week of disappointment for Falcons fans. I think the Falcons passing game, which might be one of the best in the league, will be "limited" by the Charger Safeties and Linebackers. What I mean by that is that I think the Bolts will look to trade TDs for FGs and, if they can avoid turning the ball over, I think they can do it.
Lots of "if"s, though.
Anyway, now that you all hate me for my bias opinion, shoot me your Charger questions in the comments.


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