Is the Chargers Offense Capable of Scoring?

Phillip Rivers will continue to struggle in 2013 with turnovers

     The San Diego Chargers haven't made it to the playoffs since 2009, and they were a one-and-done team against the Jets that postseason. There is a lot to be proven by the Chargers organization this Fall is anyone is going to believe in the new regime. I don't expect them to win the division, but if Mike McCoy fails to hit the 7 win mark then you can expect optimism from the public. Seriously, AJ Smith really made a mess out of this franchise and I honestly believe it will take a few years before the talent shows on this roster. Tom Telesco has to deal with a less than average quarterback, a dismal group of running backs, and an unproductive/constantly unhealthy wide receiving core. The lack of talent in San Diego clearly shows why they haven't won a playoff game in 5 seasons, or even made the playoffs in 4 years.

     It isn't a matter of "if" Phillip Rivers will be replaced within the next couple of years, it's a matter of "when." Rivers is one of the toughest competitors in the league and has the fire to lead a team, but not the accuracy or decision making to be a franchise quarterback. It really sucked to see the team let its best receiver, Vincent Jackson, walk to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers because there was a big lack of consistency at the position last season. Vincent Brown showed promise in the preseason before breaking his ankle, so let's hope he can stay healthy for Rivers going forward. Denario Alexander, a surprise #1 receiver that the Rams cut last year, did emerge as the best big-play threat for the Chargers offense last year. Alexander, like Vincent Jackson, is 6-5 and a tough match-up for anyone trying to tackle or jump with him. The 217 pounder averaged a whopping 17.8 yards and scored 7 touchdowns after playing in just the last 9 games of the season. The only problem with Denario Alexander is his knees, and they figure to give out at some point this year after having 5 surgeries. Keenan Allen was a nice pickup in the draft but it will take him a year to get adjusted to the NFL's game speed.

Ryan Matthews is officially a "bust"

    Antonio Gates is unfortunately at the end of his NFL life, as he averaged a career low 11.0 yards per catch. Gates caught 7 touchdowns but he also caught the 2nd least amount of passes in his career, 49. Stepping in for Antonio Gates will be LaDarius Green, who should be a good TE for the next 5-6 years. But unfortunately for the running back position, things don't look so bright for the future. The depth chart currently has Ryan Matthews, Danny Woodhead, Ronnie Brown and Edwin Baker. I would be surprised if any of these backs get picked in a fantasy football draft this year...seriously. The Chargers cannot WAIT until the 2014 draft to pick up a running back!

Actual 2012 Points Per Game: 21.9
Predicted 2013 Points Per Game: 23.0