Chargers Team Report 7-4-2010

Source: USA Today

An eventful offseason for Vincent Jackson has taken another turn.

Jackson, the Chargers' Pro Bowl wide receiver, has been suspended for three games by the NFL for violating its personal-conduct policy. This comes in the wake of Jackson's second conviction for driving under the influence.

Jackson was already in the news, but again for the wrong reasons as far as the team is concerned.

Jackson, along with left tackle Marcus McNeill, declined to sign their restricted free-agent tender offers last month. That move will cost both men some $2.5 million in 2010 compensation.

But Jackson and McNeill have no plans of playing a full season at a reduced wage. Instead, indications are Jackson and McNeill will be absent through the Chargers' first 10 weeks, coming in late just to accrue a season of playing.

The NFL's punishment assures Jackson of missing at least three games; the penalty could be lessened upon appeal.

Chatter has picked up that the Chargers are actively trying to move Jackson. He would seem to be a valuable piece in which the Chargers could possibly receive what the Broncos did — two second-round picks — when trading Brandon Marshall to the Dolphins.

But Jackson, too, comes with baggage.

Not only could be potentially miss nearly a quarter of the season with his suspension, but he is in the market for a rich long-term deal.

His production shows he deserves one. But his decision-making off-the-field might have some to wonder if he is worth the risk to obtain.

Plus, can Jackson be the same receiver without top-notch quarterback Philip Rivers heaving passes his way?

Fans who know their Chargers' history can't help but be reminded of John Jefferson. He wore No. 83, like Jackson, but was got caught in a contract dispute with the club during the Air Coryell days.

Jefferson was a key part of that aerial assault, then was traded to the Packers and never reached the same production level.

Depending on the team, that same fate could follow Jackson.

But there is no doubt he is talented and motivated. He's never been accused of not working hard.

A possible Jackson trade has drawn interest, it's believed, from the Redskins and Seahawks.

And if the offer is right, hard-nosed general manager A. J. Smith wouldn't hesitate to peddle Jackson.

But now with a suspension to add to his in-limbo status, trade talks could be compromised.

—Are the Chargers headed for a drug scandal?

The team's offices, along with those of the San Diego Padres, were raided by the Drug Enforcement Agency last week.

Some concluded the DEA's focus on the Chargers comes after former safety Kevin Ellison was arrested for possession of 100 Vicodin pills. At the time, Ellison, who started nine games last year for the Chargers, was a member of the team. He has since been released and signed by the Seahawks.

Ellison's agent, Jerome Stanley, said there is no connection between the two incidents.

"Kevin has nothing to do with that," Stanley said. "Whatever happened (Tuesday) is between the Chargers and the DEA."

The Chargers issued a statement after the raid that said Ellison didn't get his pills from their medical staff.

Stanley said that was a cheap shot.

"Now they're trying to make him somewhat responsible for their issue," Stanley said. "It's not our issues at all. It never was."

According to the DEA's statement, the searches were conducted "to verify the correctness of controlled substance inventories, records and reports."

Ellison became expendable after the Chargers drafted Darrell Stuckey, and were impressed with Stuckey's play in the offseason drills.

NOTES, QUOTES

—Rookie RB Ryan Mathews has found a mentor and role model in former Chargers FB Lorenzo Neal. Not only do both share of love for the Chargers, they were stars at Fresno State.

"He's become a mentor in a lot of ways, someone to rely on regarding football or the life that surrounds it," said Mathews, the Chargers' top pick. "I think he respects me, my ability and how I work."

Mathews, and the rest of the Chargers' rookies, will report to camp on July 25.

—The Chargers' first full-squad training camp workout will be July 30.

—QB Philip Rivers is having his inaugural football camp, July 10-11, at UC San Diego. It is open to players ages 7-14.

—ILB Donald Butler absorbed plenty of lessons at the NFL's recent rookie symposium.

"We get some of the veteran guys out here to talk to us, different doctors and people who really care about our well-being and want us to understand that this isn't going to last forever and hopefully give us some information that's going to better us after we play," Butler said. "As a rookie you can't help but like that. It gets a little tedious, but you take it all in and take pointers that you can use to better yourself."

QUOTE TO NOTE: "Ryan succeeded at every level; it hasn't been determined if he can make it in the NFL. But I believe he can be great at the professional level, I really do." — Former Chargers Pro Bowl FB Lorenzo Neal on the potential of Ryan Mathews, the Chargers' heralded rookie running back.

STRATEGY AND PERSONNEL

The Chargers, facing the possibility of Marcus McNeill not being with them for the regular-season opener — unless an unexpected reduction or elimination of Vincent Jackson's three-game suspension, he's assured of missing that game even before a potential holdout is considered — are fast-forwarding the learning curve of two possible replacements.

Veteran left tackle Tra Thomas was signed as a possible fill-in for McNeill. Thomas is a three-time Pro Bowler, but he's not close to that level as a 35-year-old.

Josh Reed was also obtained, but he's not the same dynamic pass-catcher as Jackson. Reed is more of a possession, underneath route runner while Jackson is a down field threat with his speed and great leaping ability.

Both positions, are how fast those possible voids can be filled, consumes the Chargers as they head for training camp.

FRANCHISE PLAYER: None.

TRANSITION PLAYER: None.

FREE AGENTS (not tendered offers)

—*OLB Marques Harris (not tendered as RFA).

—C Dennis Norman (not tendered as UFA.

—*LB Dontarrious Thomas (not tendered as RFA).

RESTRICTED FREE AGENTS (*indicates restricted because of uncapped year)

—*WR Vincent Jackson (tendered at $3.268M with first- and third-round picks as compensation).

—*LT Marcus McNeill (tendered at $3.168M with first- and third-round picks as compensation).

EXCLUSIVE RIGHTS FREE AGENTS: None.

DRAFT CHOICES SIGNED

—S Darrell Stuckey (4/110): 4 yrs, terms unknown.

—QB Jonathan Crompton (5/168): 4 yrs, terms unknown.

—TE Dedrick Epps (7/235): 4 yrs, terms unknown.

PLAYERS RE-SIGNED

—OLB Antwan Applewhite: ERFA; $470,000/1 yr.

—DT Alfonso Boone: UFA; 2 yrs, terms unknown.

—OT Jeromey Clary: RFA; (tendered at $1.684M with second-round pick as compensation); $1.684M/1 yr.

—*WR Malcom Floyd: RFA; (tendered at $3.168M with first- and third-round picks as compensation); $3.168M/1 yr.

—*DT Antonio Garay: Not tendered as RFA; terms unknown.

—*DE Travis Johnson: RFA; (tendered at $1.226M with first-round pick as compensation); $1.226M/1 yr.

—*OLB Shawne Merriman: RFA (tendered at $3.168M with first- and third-round picks as compensation): $3.168M/1 yr.

—*RB Darren Sproles: RFA; (tendered at $7.283M with first- and third-round picks as compensation); $7.283M/1 yr.

—FB Mike Tolbert: ERFA; $470,000/1 yr.

—TE Kris Wilson: UFA; 2 yrs, terms unknown.

PLAYERS ACQUIRED

—RB Marcus Mason (waivers Redskins).

—TE Randy McMichael: Not tendered as UFA by Rams; 1 yr, terms unknown.

—WR Josh Reed: Not tendered as UFA by Bills; terms unknown.

—CB Donald Strickland: FA Jets; 2 yrs, terms unknown.

—OT Tra Thomas: FA Jaguars; 1 yr, terms unknown.

—CB Nate Vasher: FA Bears; $4.5M/2 yrs.

PLAYERS LOST

—RB Michael Bennett (released).

—WR Demetrius Byrd (released/non-football injury).

—CB Antonio Cromartie (traded Jets).

—*ILB Tim Dobbins (traded Dolphins), had been re-signed as RFA; (tendered at $1.176M with fifth-round pick as compensation); $1.176M/1 yr.

—S Kevin Ellison (released).

—*C Eric Ghiaciuc: Not tendered as RFA/Browns; terms unknown.

—TE Brandon Manumaleuna: UFA Bears; $15M/5 yrs, $$2M SB/$3M RB.

—WR Kassim Osgood: UFA Jaguars; $6.675M/3 yrs, $2.975M guaranteed.

—OT Jon Runyan: UFA (retired).

—DT Ian Scott (released).

—RB LaDainian Tomlinson (released).

—*QB Charlie Whitehurst: RFA; (tendered at $1.176M with third-round pick as compensation); re-signed, traded to Seahawks.

—NT Jamal Williams (released).

Chargers determined to keep top free agents

INDIANAPOLIS — The Chargers appear determined to keep their remaining four top restricted free agents after allowing running back Darren Sproles to test the market.

According to sources familiar with the Chargers’ intentions, the team is expected to place the first-and-third tender on left tackle Marcus McNeill, linebacker Shawne Merriman and receivers Malcom Floyd and Vincent Jackson.

That is the highest possible tender and would assure the Chargers of receiving significant compensation if one of them signed elsewhere.

Ostensibly, another team would have to give the Chargers first- and third-round draft picks in this year’s draft if they signed one of the four. But the sides could negotiate a lesser deal.

One source cautioned that “things could change.” But several sources said the Chargers are making known their intentions to put the highest tender on those four players, believing that is the only way to keep them from being poached.

Other teams could deem any or all of those four — not to mention eight other restricted free agents — worth parting with draft picks.

But most general managers speaking at the NFL Combine this week indicated they did not anticipate a lot of movement in restricted free agency even though so many top players are restricted and the unrestricted market is considered relatively light.

Floyd, Jackson, McNeill and Merriman were all due to be unrestricted free agents this year but are restricted because of 2010 being uncapped in the final season of the Collective Bargaining Agreement.

As a player with five years’ experience, Jackson will receive $3.268 million in 2010 and Floyd $3.168 million. Merriman is entitled to 110 percent of his 2009 salary ($2.972 million), which means he will make $3.269 million.

Sproles became one of the top unrestricted free agents available when the Chargers opted to not tender him because of the $7.3 million price tag that would have been required.

The Chargers hold out hope they can entice Sproles to return with a multiyear contract offer. However, sources said the deep-pocketed Washington Redskins are going to be among those in the bidding for Sproles.

It appears as though one Charger will be on the move.

Trade talks regarding cornerback Antonio Cromartie have progressed at the Combine this week, league sources said. And sources familiar with the teams the Chargers have spoken with said the Detroit Lions are the leading contender to get Cromartie and could acquire him soon in exchange for a mid-round draft pick.

Vincent Jackson to Pro Bowl

Source: Chargers.com

Chargers wide receiver Vincent Jackson learned Sunday that he’ll make his first Pro Bowl appearance next week in Miami.

Vincent Jackson was added to the AFC Pro Bowl roster Sunday, making him the sixth Charger to receive the honor this season. Jackson replaces Colts wide receiver Reggie Wayne, who won’t participate due to his team advancing to the Super Bowl.

Jackson set career highs with 68 receptions, 1,167 yards and nine touchdowns this season. His yardage and touchdown totals led the Chargers, while his average of 17.2 yards per reception trailed only Philadelphia’s DeSean Jackson among players with at least 45 catches.

Jackson becomes the first Chargers wide receiver to earn Pro Bowl honors since Tony Martin in 1997. Jackson had his name mentioned with Martin’s on a few occasions this season as “VJ” became the first Charger to record back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons since Martin accomplished the feat in 1995-96.

Chudzinski not heading to Bears

After interviewing for the vacant offensive coordinator position in Chicago last week, Chargers Tight Ends & Assistant Head Coach Rob Chudzinski notified the Bears that he has removed himself from consideration.

Rivers, Gates, Jackson, Phillips, Jammer, Osgood, McNeill & Cooper receive team honors

Source:Chargers.com
Philip Rivers, in the midst of a potential NFL MVP season, was voted the Chargers’ Most Valuable Player by teammates. Rivers, who has thrown for a career-high 4,155 yards and 27 touchdowns, wins his second-consecutive team MVP award a day after being chosen to his second-career Pro Bowl squad.

Offensive Player of the Year (Rodney Culver Memorial Award) honors will be split between tight end Antonio Gates and wide receiver Vincent Jackson. Both players are enjoying career seasons, with Gates gaining a career-high 1,145 yards and Jackson setting career highs in yards (1,167), catches (68) and touchdowns (nine). This is Gates’ third-career Rodney Culver Award (2004 & ’05) and Jackson’s first.

Defensive Player of the Year (David Griggs Memorial Award) honors will be split between linebacker Shaun Phillips and cornerback Quentin Jammer. Phillips leads the NFL with seven forced fumbles and paces the team with seven sacks, while Jammer has broken up a team-leading 10 passes and is tied for the team lead with three interceptions. This the first David Griggs Award for both players.

Special Teams Player of the Year honors go to wide receiver and special teams ace Kassim Osgood, a 2009 Pro Bowl choice, who ranks second on the team with 12 stops. Routinely harassed by double and triple-teams, Osgood is headed to his third-career Pro Bowl. This is his fourth special teams player of the year award (2005-07).

Lineman of the Year honors go to left tackle Marcus McNeill, who is charged with protecting the blind-side of Rivers. McNeill hasn’t missed a start all season and is a key member of the line which has allowed only 10 sacks during the team’s current 10-game winning streak. Overlooked for the Pro Bowl, McNeill captures his second-career lineman of the year award (2006).

Linebacker Stephen Cooper, the team’s leading tackler with 119 stops on the season, receives the Emil Karas Award as Most Inspirational Player. At one of the most physically demanding positions on the field, Cooper has played more snaps this season (928) than any other defender and ranks second on the team with seven passes broken up. He’s also forced and recovered two fumbles.

Bolts' Stomp Cowboys, Looking To Playoffs

ARLINGTON, Texas — A goal-line stand near the end of the first half, a long drive near the game’s end and big plays in between put the Chargers on the verge of their fourth straight playoff berth and perhaps more.

“We took care of business here, and now we’re going to get ready,” receiver Vincent Jackson said. “Cincinnati’s our biggest game.”

A 20-17 victory Sunday over the Dallas Cowboys on a day the Denver Broncos and Cincinnati Bengals lost put the Chargers two games up with three to play in the AFC West and also gave them an edge in the race for the No. 2 seed going into next Sunday’s home game against the Bengals.

“We’ve got a big game next week,” defensive end Luis Castillo said. “It’s a really big game with a lot of meaning for the next couple months.”

It was the Chargers’ eighth straight victory this season and 16th consecutive December win dating to 2006.

“Everything just seems to be clicking for us right now,” linebacker Shawne Merriman said. “We hit a stride that we’re continuing.”

Jackson has seven catches for 120 yards, including two of the Chargers’ three crucial long third-down receptions.

Dallas, which tied the game at 10 with an 11-play, 99-yard drive that ended the third quarter, will look back on a missed 42-yard field goal and failure to get in the end zone on three tries from the 1 in the second quarter.

After taking a 17-10 lead and stopping the Cowboys, the Chargers took over at their 11-yard line with 9:13 to play and kept the ball more than seven minutes en route to a field goal that made it 20-10.

The Cowboys scored a touchdown with two seconds to play, but Antonio Gates recovered an onside kick attempt to effectively end the game and keep the Chargers perfect over the past four Decembers.

“Everyone talks about finishing strong,” quarterback Philip Rivers said. “You want to peak in December, and we have a history of doing that. We hope to carry that onto January, into 2010.”

Chargers Team Report 12-1-09

Source: USA Today/SD Tribune

With the Chargers having won a half-dozen games in a row, fighting to stay ahead of the Denver Broncos with a difficult December ahead, now is perhaps the perfect time to take it easy.

No one should suggest taking the Cleveland Browns lightly, but they just might be the perfect opponent with which to begin the final push to the postseason.

With Shawne Merriman’s hoof hurting and rest the only elixir, head coach Norv Turner said he might sit the outside linebacker Sunday.

“We’re just going to treat it the best we can and … see how he is at the end of the week,” Turner said of Merriman’s tendinitis. “That’s the biggest thing – rest and time for his foot to heal. That’s something we’re going to consider and look at. If he’s a lot better Wednesday and Thursday and can do some and practice Friday, I’d like to see him play. If he can’t practice, that’s something we’ll consider.”

Maybe defensive end Luis Castillo, who sat out Sunday’s game against Kansas City due to a calf strain, won’t be rushed back either.

And this could be the perfect week to ease center Nick Hardwick back into action and new right tackle Jon Runyan into his role with a few series each.

The NFL is fraught with weekly lessons that no team is to be taken lightly, but Cleveland (1-10) might make the Chiefs look like a great team. The Browns have the NFL’s worst offense (230.6 yards per game) and second-worst defense (393.3). They have been outscored by more than 14 points per game.

To be fair, Turner had not begun breaking down the Browns quite yet when he was asked about them yesterday. But his response was classically evasive when asked what concerns him about the team leading the race for next April’s top draft pick.

“On the road,” he said, “handling the elements, all those things will come into it.”

Yes, snow is possible (isn’t it always in Cleveland?) and the temperature is expected to be in the 30s at game time. Then there is Josh Cribbs, one of the league’s top kick returners.

Other than that, the Chargers’ biggest hurdle might be looking past the Browns toward a game in Dallas next week, though the Chargers certainly did not let a lesser opponent and myriad distractions affect them last week.

The Chargers are also very comfortable in the month that dawned today. They have won all 14 of their December games since a loss ended the 2005 season.

That said, this will be their toughest closing month.

The combined winning percentage of the teams they’ve faced the past three Decembers has been .424, and half of the games were against teams with losing records.

This month, after Cleveland, they’ll face, in succession, division leaders Dallas (8-3) and Cincinnati (8-3), and face a Tennessee team that has won five straight games before hosting Washington (3-8) to close the regular season.

“There are a lot of things that go into it,” Turner said of the Chargers’ December dominance. “We’ve got real good players. There is great focus. The schedule … has helped us. The schedule is much more difficult this year.”

And it’s different, too, because the Chargers are finished playing the AFC West. Meanwhile, the Broncos (7-4), who trail the Chargers by one game, get to play Kansas City twice and Oakland once. (Denver’s other games are at Indianapolis and at Philadelphia.)

“You’re not playing the teams you’re competing against,” Turner said. “You’ve got to go out and beat some other people and at times look and see how the team that’s chasing you is doing.”

The player likely to replace Weddle, Paul Oliver, has shown some spark as well.

It was Oliver who knocked loose the football from Matt Cassel on Sunday and raced 40 yards for a touchdown in the win over the Chiefs.

But Weddle is a workhorse who seldom leaves the field. He had a team-high 654 plays entering the Chiefs’ game and is known for being around the football.

Plus, the way coordinator Ron Rivera has been implementing his secondary — and in particular the safeties — into his blitz packages, losing Weddle is a big blow.

Oliver is coming off his best game of his career, which included three tackles.

The Chargers could move Steve Gregory back to the safety spot, but he has played so well in the slot in nickel packages the team is hesitant about such a switch.

So for games at Cleveland and Dallas, Oliver will be in the spotlight. The third-year pro has never started an NFL game.

Oliver could also get some help from C.J. Spillman, who cannot be considered experienced, either — he has but one special teams tackle this season.

The news was better regarding inside linebacker Kevin Burnett, who suffered a concussion on Sunday. Coach Norv Turner said Burnett, who had four tackles Sunday, had been cleared for Wednesday’s practice.

NOTES, QUOTES

—The Chargers introduced their 50th anniversary team Sunday before the win over the Chiefs. Many of the current Chargers said it was special to see the players, and then pay homage to some of those great Chargers teams of the past by scoring a season-high 43 points. In particular, it was a treat to a frail Don Coryell who is up for the Pro Football Hall of Fame this year.

“With all the gadgets and throwing the ball downfield and seeing guys jump up in the air and catch the ball, I think we did honor him,” RB LaDainian Tomlinson said.

—There are 11 current Chargers on the franchise’s all-time best squad.

—S Eric Weddle, who will miss two weeks with a sprained knee, said the Chargers can’t get full of themselves despite a six-game winning streak.

“We’re playing good ball and we know that, but we can’t get sucked into the hype that a long winning streak will bring,” he said. “We haven’t done anything yet. We have to play consistent and finish each game.”

—Can the Chargers be better? “We don’t know that,” OLB Shaun Phillips said. “All we care about is fixing problems and getting better.”

— The case against Chargers cornerback Antonio Cromartie, who is accused of hitting another man on the head with a champagne bottle, will be sent to the City Attorney’s office Tuesday, according to the SD Police.

STRATEGY AND PERSONNEL

PLAYER NOTES

—DE Luis Castillo, who missed Sunday’s game with a calf injury, is expected to go this week.

—C Nick Hardwick, if he avoids setbacks during practices this week, could play for the first time since injuring his ankle in the season opener. Hardwick wouldn’t start, but potentially get 20-25 plays.

—T Jon Runyan could be active this week. But it’s doubtful it would be in a starting role.

—RT Brandyn Dombrowski graded out well in his first start at the position left open by the injury to Jeromey Clary. Dombrowski’s play could allow the Chargers to ease Runyan back into NFL action.

—OLB Shawne Merriman continues to be bothered by a foot injury and it looks like it could stay with him through the rest of the season. Merriman played very little Sunday and he could follow that route this week as well — or possibly sit out and rest the foot.

—TE Antonio Gates continues to shine and is on pace for 80-plus catches and to set career highs in receiving yards and yards per catch.

REPORT CARD VS. CHIEFS

PASSING OFFENSE: A — Philip Rivers continues to play at an extremely high level as for the third straight week he completes 75 percent of his passes. The Chargers reintroduced the deep ball back into their game plan and the result was the Chargers stretching the field so much the Chiefs couldn’t defend it. The pass-blocking, again, was excellent as Rivers wasn’t sacked and was hit just once.

RUSHING OFFENSE: B-plus — People are saying the Chargers’ running game is back, and it is to some degree. But even when milking the clock and a big lead, the Chargers only ran for 94 yards and a 2.8-yard average. Tomlinson did add two more scoring runs and would have had a third save a goal-line fumble.

PASS DEFENSE: A — Matt Cassel never does look comfortable with the blitzes coming from the secondary and the coverage not giving him much to work with. Quentin Jammer had an interception and Antonio Cromartie had six tackles. Just a team sack, but Cassel was under heat which helped lead to the Chiefs’ four turnovers.

RUSH DEFENSE: C — The Chiefs didn’t run much when falling behind but they were effective in moving the ball early in the game. The Chargers allowed 114 rushing yards and never did have an answer for Jamaal Charles — he averaged 6.6 yards on 14 carries. Still work to do here, although ILB Brandon Siler’s arrow keeps pointing up.

SPECIAL TEAMS: A — Nate Kaeding’s 55-yard field goal is the best he’s done at Qualcomm. The coverage unit had a leak on Charles when he raced 45 yards on a kickoff. Darren Sproles had a 32-yard kickoff return, but not much else. Kaeding later added a 23-yarder.

COACHING: A — Coach Norv Turner had to juggle Thanksgiving holiday and everyone pulling at his players for the 50th anniversary parties. But he told the Chargers all week to focus on the Chiefs — Turner’s message got a boost when the Chiefs upset the Steelers. But he was going deep into the playbook as the Chargers are seemingly adding a wrinkle or two each week. Ron Rivera continues to lean on the blitzes coming from the secondary and it is working.

Chargers place Clary on IR and sign Runyan

Source: Chargers.com

Newly-signed Chargers offensive tackle Jon Runyan had to be patient, but Tuesday he found a great fit.

After opportunities to find a new home came and went prior to the start of the 2009 season, veteran offensive tackle Jon Runyan was content to be patient and wait for the perfect situation.

That came Tuesday in the form of a first-place team suddenly in need of help at tackle due to injuries. Runyan, a 13-year veteran who had started 192-consecutive games before the Eagles released him this spring, signed a one-year contract with the Chargers.

“It’s unfortunate that a lot of times it takes an injury to get in a position like this, but once the beginning of the season passed, this is the kind of situation I was looking for,” Runyan said. “I was fortunate enough that it worked out here. It’s the right time and right situation and I felt comfortable doing it.”

Runyan (6-7, 330) will fill the roster spot of Jeromey Clary, who will be placed on “Reserve-Injured” Tuesday. Runyan underwent microfracture surgery on his right knee in February but believes he’s physically ready to get back at it. He’ll practice with the Chargers Wednesday as they begin preparations for Sunday’s game against the Chiefs.

“I’m probably in the best shape I’ve been in in 10 years,” Runyan said. “I’ve been training that much. It’s my personality; when I do it outside of the football facility, I tend to overdo it. It’s a little more relaxed when you’re in the building all the time. I’ve been going four or five days a week for the past nine months so I’m there (physically).”

General Manager A.J. Smith lauded Runyan’s physical presence and said that the veteran “will be added to the mix” at offensive tackle.

“We are very fortunate that a player of Jon’s experience and ability was available at this time,” Smith said. “He is an outstanding competitor and I have always admired the physical, nasty approach he brings to the field every game.”

In 13 NFL seasons, Runyan has appeared in 223 games, including 21 playoff contests, five conference championship games and two Super Bowls. He began his career with the Houston Oilers and holds the distinction of being the only active NFL player who spent time with the franchise before its move to Tennessee. After four seasons in Houston/Nashville, Runyan signed with Philadelphia where he was a fixture at right tackle for nine seasons. He’ll spent Tuesday night immersing himself in the Chargers’ playbook as he tries to quickly pick up the offense.

“It’s a foreign language,” Runyan said. “But the basis of football is all the same. It’s just a matter of making that transition in your mind. I’m ready to get to work on it.”

Chargers Team Report – 11/24/09

Source: USA Today
The Chargers got their fifth consecutive victory and a spot atop the AFC West standings, but it came with a cost.

Right tackle Jeromey Clary suffered an ankle injury which will likely shelve him for the rest of the regular season.

The Chargers, though, are reluctant to put Clary on injured reserve, hoping if they make a late playoff run he might be able to go.

So look for Clary to stick, but likely not do much until late in the season.

That was the sense coach Norv Turner gave a day after the Chargers thumped the Broncos 32-3.

There was also troubling news off the field.

Cornerback Antonio Cromartie, who had an interception in Sunday’s win, is under investigation for assault with a deadly weapon. He is accused of throwing of a champagne bottle in a San Diego bar altercation.

He was out early Monday morning after the team’s big win.

Cromartie wrote via Twitter: "I want 2 apologize to charger nation and my fans. There's sum stuff out abt me that's not true. It will come out. God Bless"

NOTES, QUOTES

—Outside linebacker Shawne Merriman couldn’t hide the significance of Sunday’s win.

“I’d love to say it’s just another game, but we were playing for first in the division. This game meant a lot to a lot of us,” Merriman said.

—Running back LaDainian Tomlinson was scratching his head when Denver’s Chris Simms trotted out with first team instead of Kyle Orton. Orton was battling an ankle injury.

“I was surprised Orton didn’t start the game,” he said. “I saw him in pregame, and he looked good throwing the ball.”

—The win was the Chargers’ fifth straight.

“We never panicked,” inside linebacker Stephen Cooper said of the team’s reaction after a slow start to the season. “Look up and down our roster, and you will see All-Pro caliber players.”

STRATEGY AND PERSONNEL

PLAYER NOTES

—DE Luis Castillo (calf) could sit out Wednesday’s practice.

—ILB Kevin Burnett continues to shine after missing three games recently with a knee injury. He had his best day as a Charger on Sunday with seven tackles and two sacks.

—LB James Holt is making his mark on special teams. He had two more tackles Sunday.

—WR Legedu Naanee continues to get more playing time. Naanee had a scoring catch for the second straight week.

—DB Paul Oliver is playing more thanks to his productivity. He had four tackles, one for a loss and a pass defensed.

—FB Mike Tolbert continues to prove he can do more than block and play special teams. The Chargers are eager to slip him some carries, and he has responded. He had 58 yards and a score Sunday — including a 32-yard run.

—OLB Shawne Merriman (foot) held up OK in the game.

REPORT CARD VS. BRONCOS

PASSING OFFENSE: B-plus — Philip Rivers was accurate again, missing on only one of his 14 first-half passes and hitting 17 of 22 overall. Rivers didn’t have to be great, just manage the game while leaning on the running game. San Diego’s pass-blocking was keen; the Broncos had five sacks in the earlier meeting and none in this one.

RUSHING OFFENSE: A — This unit had its best game of the season with 203 rushing yards. With a comfortable lead, the Chargers were able to sock the game away on the ground while giving this piece of the offense a chunk of confidence.

PASS DEFENSE: A — Chris Simms and Kyle Orton didn’t look comfortable, with the secondary playing well and a pass-rush that pestered them both. The Chargers allowed just 181 yards, and that was against an offense that was throwing often to get back into the game. Antonio Cromartie got a pick, and Eric Weddle was active with six tackles.

RUSH DEFENSE: B — There were a few leaks here on the Broncos’ decent-looking drives, but some adjustments were made, and Denver had to start heaving the ball. But the Broncos did gain for 115 rushing yards.

SPECIAL TEAMS: A — The Chargers were much better in this area after allowing two returns for scores in the previous matchup. The coverage units were fine. Nate Kaeding boomed five touchbacks thanks to the thin air, and he went 4-for-4 on field-goal attempts.

COACHING: A — Having noted the Broncos’ pass rush in the teams’ first meeting, Norv Turner had the offense turn to short and medium routes to get the ball out fast. With the safeties on their heels, the short stuff worked, and the running game re-established itself. Defensive coordinator Ron Rivera went after the Broncos quarterbacks, and the pass rush was effective without Shawne Merriman having a big day.
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Chargers "OWN" Broncos

San Diego Tribune— The smiles on their faces, their yells of defiance and the bounce in their step as they left the field revealed the importance of this beatdown.

The Chargers led from their first drive yesterday and routed the Denver Broncos 32-3 to take over what they believe is their rightful spot atop the AFC West.

"You'd love to say this is just another game, but it wasn't," linebacker Shawne Merriman said. "We were playing for first place in the division."

The Chargers, winners of five straight since Denver beat them Oct. 19 in San Diego, were at least a mile high as they considered their current roll and the significance of pummeling the plummeting Broncos.

"We had to re-establish ourselves this game as the first-place team in the AFC West," tight end Antonio Gates said. "That's why it was huge.

"The mental part was to prove to them we're still the AFC West champs. I think that was bigger than anything."

The Broncos (6-4) began the game running seven times. On their eighth play, quarterback Chris Simms dropped to pass, Chargers linebacker Shaun Phillips hit his hand from behind and knocked the ball to the ground, where safety Steve Gregory picked it up.

Starting at their 31-yard line, the Chargers (7-3) drove to a touchdown and a lead that was never in jeopardy even as they struggled to put the game away until the third quarter.

The Chargers are now 11-5 over the past four Novembers, with one more game to play before reaching the month in which they haven't lost since 2005.

"We fought back earlier this year, and we're playing our best ball," quarterback Philip Rivers said. "Hopefully, we can keep going that way through December as we have in the past."

Already, they believe they've re-acquired division ownership.

Said running back LaDainian Tomlinson: "I think we established that we're the best team in the AFC West this year."

Jay Cutler is gone. So maybe Josh McDaniels is the Bronco that San Diego will love to hate now.

The Chargers' locker room was abuzz yesterday, as players were both offended and amused by the Denver Broncos head coach telling the Chargers linebackers before yesterday's game, "We own you."

That, at least, was the version offered by the linebackers, to a man.

McDaniels, who slowed down to talk on his way to his car more than an hour after the game, said the Chargers started the trash talking. He would not elaborate on what he may have said, but neither did he deny he talked back.

"They talked to me first," McDaniels said. "I'm not making a story about this. If I did, I'd be able to tell you some things that aren't (fit) for papers."

The linebackers did not deny one or more among them may have started the dishing, but they thought McDaniels' behavior was beneath a man in his position.

"You gotta like his fire," Stephen Cooper said. "As a head coach I don't think you want to start jawing with players if you're not putting the pads on."

With a laugh, considering the Chargers' 32-3 victory, Cooper added, "Looks like he owned us, but it got repossessed."

A smiling Shawne Merriman said of McDaniels popping off: "It was cute."

Other Chargers said McDaniels directed his barb at Shaun Phillips. A source said it was Phillips who actually began the give and take.

"I'm not surprised," Phillips said of McDaniels talking. "He's a little cocky. ... It's all good, all fun and games. We didn't look too much into it. As a coach, I hope he has that mindset. But to say he owns us? I mean, you beat us one time. What has he really done in this league? He had a team 6-0, and now he's looking up at us from second place."
Clary gone?

The Chargers may have lost right tackle Jeromey Clary for the season after he was carted off the field in the fourth quarter with an injury to his left ankle.

Head coach Norv Turner said he believes the "injury is going to be more serious than I'd like it to be."

Brandyn Dombrowski replaced Clary and will be the likely fill-in, going forward, though the Chargers did sign signed tackle Corey Clark from the practice squad last week.

Dombrowski started two games in September at right guard and has been working at left tackle.

Clary left last week's game and did not practice last week with a sprained right ankle.
Blackout looms

Approximately 7,000 tickets remain for Sunday's game against the Kansas City Chiefs, and it appears the Chargers' club record-tying streak of 44 games without a local television blackout is in danger of ending.

Said Jim Steeg, the Chargers' chief operating officer: "It will be very difficult to sell 7,000 tickets in three days with a holiday weekend starting on Wednesday."

The game must be declared a sellout by 1:05 p.m. Thursday to avert the blackout, although an extension is possible due to because of the Thanksgiving. holiday.
Playing it smart

LaDainian Tomlinson carried 20 times for 73 yards and a touchdown but was off the field in stretches, in part by design and in part due to because of the hip injury that continues to bother him.

"It's still bruised," said Tomlinson, who injured the hip Nov. 8 against New York. "Whenever I get hit or land it, I monitor it. But I don't think about it. ... I also want to stay fresh throughout the game like I used to do with Michael Turner, and (Darren Sproles) is doing a heck of a job. That's why I come out, so I can be fresh in the fourth quarter if we need to put the game away."
Big air

Nate Kaeding is not one of the league's big legs on kickoffs. In fact, there are 16 kickers in the NFL with more touchbacks than Kaeding since he came into the league in 2004.

But maybe if Kaeding kicked in the altitude in Denver every week ...

Kaeding had five touchbacks yesterday, bringing his career total in six games in Denver to 19, exactly half his career total.

To make it even easier on Kaeding, 15-yard penalties against the Broncos had him twice kicking off from the 45.

"I've made a living off getting touchbacks here," Kaeding said. "To give it to me on the 45 it was a gift for sure."
Nuts 'n' Bolts

* Defensive end Luis Castillo left the game in the second quarter with a calf injury and did not return.
* Cornerback Quentin Jammer left the game for a play after colliding with Phillips while defending a pass. Last week he was felled for a series by friendly fire, when he and Eric Weddle collided. Said Jammer: "The only time I get hurt, it's always one of my teammates hitting me."
* For the first time in 50 years of playing the Broncos, the Chargers have won in Denver for the third time in four years ... only an Ed Hochuli call from having won four straight.
* After 36 punts, Mike Scifres finally had one make it into reach the end zone for a touchback. That leaves Detroit's Nick Harris as the only punter in the league to have punted more than 30 times without a touchback.
* In starting 6-0, the Broncos outscored opponents 76-10 in the second half, including 17-3 at San Diego. But during their four-game losing streak they've been outscored 77-17 after halftime, including 17-3 yesterday.
* The Chargers scored a touchdown on their first possession for just the second time in 10 games and third time in the past 31 games.

Chargers Thundering Into Denver

SAN DIEGO — What a difference a month makes.

When the San Diego Chargers and Denver Broncos were last on the field together a month agoat Qualcomm Stadium, it appeared the AFC West race was all but settled.

The Broncos defeated the Chargers 34-23 on Monday Night Football to take a 3½-game lead in the division race. Denver left that game undefeated at 6-0, and the Chargers had fallen to 2-3.

But never say never with San Diego, which now owns the same 6-3 mark as Denver atop the AFC West.

"It's like déjà vu, isn't it?" Chargers tight end Antonio Gates says, referring to the showdown in Denver on Sunday. "It's like every time we play Denver, it means more than one game. We'll be fired up."

The reversal of fortunes for these teams smacks of the turn of events late last season, when the Broncos collapsed down the stretch and became the first team since the 1970 AFL-NFL merger to blow a three-game division lead with three games to play, allowing San Diego to claim the division crown.

That meltdown seemed so unlikely to be repeated. Denver, with a rebuilt defense and new coach Josh McDaniels, started 6-0.

Yet here we are again. A Broncos collapse has coincided with a Chargers rally. "It's resiliency," Chargers cornerback Antonio Cromartie says.

The Chargers seemingly thrive on beating such long odds. They entered December last season left for dead at 4-8. In 2007, during Norv Turner's first season as coach, they started 1-3 before winning the division and advancing to the AFC title game.

Now this.

"We've been in this situation before, so it's not anything new to us," linebacker Shawne Merriman says. "You hate to start off the season the way we start off sometimes, but when your back's against the wall, we've shown we can go out and perform."

Turner praises the character and talent he's working with, but maintains that the early season struggles in each of his campaigns were unique in each case.

Two years ago, he actually projected a slow start as the team was adjusting to a new staff and system. Last season, they started 0-2, losing on the final play against the Carolina Panthers in the opener and the following week falling victim to referee Ed Hochuli's erroneous ruling that an apparent fumble by Denver quarterback Jay Cutler in the final minute was an incompletion.

This time, Turner points to injuries as the key factor. Running back LaDainian Tomlinson, nose tackle Jamal Williams and center Nick Hardwick were among five players injured in the season-opening victory at the Oakland Raiders. Williams, anchor of the 3-4 front, was lost for the season with a torn triceps. Hardwick hasn't returned from an ankle injury.

Tomlinson missed two games with a sprained ankle, and Turner saw his performance in Sunday's 31-23 victory against the Philadelphia Eagles (24 rushes for 96 yards and two TDs) as a sign that he's healthy again.

"We were beat up and banged up," Turner says. "We played that first month with guys on the offensive and defensive lines who were just feeling their way and learning how to play in this league."

Merriman's gradual return to form, after missing virtually all of last season with torn knee ligaments, also has been a boost for the defense.

Says Turner: "Merriman is a lot healthier than he was in September. He and (linebacker) Shaun Phillips, the month they've had, they've been on a tear."

San Diego's defense was on the field for 71 snaps and allowed 462 yards against the Eagles, but three times forced them to settle for short field goals when backed up in the red zone. A week earlier, the unit kept the New York Giants from scoring a game-clinching touchdown late in the fourth quarter, forcing a field goal. That allowed quarterback Philip Rivers to lead a game-winning 80-yard drive in the final minutes that was capped with an 18-yard scoring pass to Vincent Jackson.

"Right now, we're on the cusp of being a good defense," inside linebacker Kevin Burnett says. "We can talk about being great later. If we can be consistent and then put together a string of victories — six, seven, eight in a row — then you can say we're a good defense."

The Chargers know all about winning streaks.

They won five in a row last season before an AFC divisional playoff loss at the Pittsburgh Steelers. Two seasons ago, they took an eight-game streak into the AFC title game. In 2006, they closed the regular season with a 10-game winning streak before a playoff-opening loss that cost Marty Schottenheimer his job as Turner's predecessor.

"We know how to rally," cornerback Quentin Jammer says. "When we put our minds to it, we know how to get it done as a team."

They'll soon get another chance to prove that to the Broncos.

Chargers Win! Denver Doesn't!

SIGN ON SAN DIEGO.COM – Little more than 3½ weeks ago, they were 3½ games out of first place. They had all sorts of defensive shortcomings, no running game to speak of and no reason to think LaDainian Tomlinson would be able to bring it back to life.

Catch the Denver Broncos? Again?

Puh-lease.

Four games and four wins later, almost unfathomably, the Chargers already have climbed back alongside Denver atop the AFC West Division. Withstanding a full-scale passing assault by Donovan McNabb, the Chargers on Sunday pulled out a 31-23 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles, drawing even with the Broncos at 6-3. As these things happen, of course, the Chargers play at Denver next Sunday.

The game was witnessed by 68,879, the third-largest crowd to ever see the Chargers play at home, and a considerable number of those in attendance came across country to see McNabb shred the Chargers’ defense. And he did. To a point.

Thwarted time and again by San Diego when getting in close through the first three quarters – by which time the Chargers led 28-9 on the strength of two Tomlinson touchdowns – McNabb passed the Eagles to two scores to make things interesting. He finished with 450 yards passing.

Philip Rivers showed some mastery of his own, though, killing enough time off the clock en route to a Nate Kaeding field goal with 30 seconds to play. The game ended with Antonio Cromartie intercepting McNabb's desperation pass in the end zone.

Even before kickoff, the Chargers knew they had first place within their grasp, no small thing to a team that began the season 2-3 and already 3½ games behind the then-unbeaten Denver Broncos. In an earlier game Sunday, the Broncos were upset at Washington, dropping the Broncos to 6-3 with their third straight loss.

The Eagles gave the Chargers a nice little gift in the game’s early going, too, Sav Rocca squibbing his first punt for just 30 yards to set up San Diego at the Eagles’ 40. The Chargers covered half the distance, including a 10-yard gain by receiver Legedu Naanee on a direct snap from “wildcat” formation, before Rivers hit fullback Mike Tolbert with a quick pass over the middle and the 20-yard touchdown.

As they did last week in a road defeat of the New York Giants, the Chargers were particularly effective in first-down defense, forcing the Eagles to the air. Not all of the passing was done by McNabb, either. Michael Vick made his first appearance of the game late in the first quarter, throwing a second-and-eight pass well downfield to DeSean Jackson, who dropped the ball and turned an ankle in the process.

San Diego maintained the 7-0 lead into the second quarter and immediately went to work building on it, running all sorts of different stuff at Philadelphia’s flyaround defense. Tomlinson took the wildcat for five yards, and with a six–yard gain two plays later, he passed Thurman Thomas (12,074 yards) into 13th place on the all-time rushing list.

Before the drive was over, Tomlinson had tied local product Marcus Allen in third place on the all-time touchdown list with his 145th, a five-yard bolt up the middle.

A 14-0 lead’s nothing against a multiskilled offense like Philadelphia’s, though, and McNabb quickly passed the Eagles downfield. A pass interference call on Quentin Jammer in the end zone gave the Eagles a first-and-goal at the one-yard line. They would get no closer.

Inside linebackers Kevin Burnett and Brandon Siler combined to stuff a first-down dive. McNabb resorted to a bootleg play, but tight end Brent Celek was too well covered in the back corner of the end zone and McNabb effectively threw it away.

On third down, running back Edra Buckley was stopped cold by defensive linemen Ian Scott and Alfonso Boone, whereupon inside linebacker Stephen Cooper took a few steps toward the Philadelphia bench and challenged the Eagles to try it again on fourth. Not biting, head coach Andy Reid sent on the field-goal unit, and it was 14-3.

Likewise, McNabb guided the Eagles on another promising drive on its next possession, only to come away with another David Akers field goal of 25 yards eight seconds before intermission.

While momentum seemed to be flipping over to the Eagles, they continued to hurt themselves with penalties in the third quarter. A 34-yard reception by Jeremy Maclin was negated by his own pass-interference infraction, and a 10-yard gain by Tomlinson was extended by an unnecessary–roughness call.

Not that Tomlinson needed the help. He was running like the L.T. of old – 24 carries for 96 yards – and continuing to pass some old legends in the process.

Breaking through the right side and capitalizing on the blocks of guard Kris Dielman and Brandon Manumaleuna, Tomlinson went 20 yards for the TD that pushed him ahead of Marcus Allen on the TD list, leaving him behind only Jerry Rice (208) and Tomlinson idol Emmitt Smith (175). At the same time, he surpassed Franco Harris (12,130) in rushing yards.

Qualcomm Stadium was seemingly half-full of fans wearing Eagles colors. To be sure, they were booing like true Philadelphians, especially when Reid chose yet again to take an Akers field goal instead of a chance on fourth-and-one at the San Diego seven-yard line.

Three-pointers indeed weren’t going to cut it after the Chargers made it 28-9 with their next drive, triggered by Darren Sproles’ kickoff return to the 41-yard line. Rivers connected on four straight passes, the last one a 20-yarder to Naanee, wide open and waiting just inside the backline of the end zone.

The rest of the game, virtually the entire fourth quarter, was basically spent watching the clock and McNabb completing pass after pass. Two of them were caught in the end zone.

McNabb found Maclin uncovered for a five-yard score. When he hit Celek for an 11-yard TD with 7:12 remaining, pulling the Eagles to within a touchdown of winning, McNabb had completed 33 of 50 attempts for 418 yards.

Game Preview: Eagles vs. Chargers

Source: Yahoo Sports

Do they have it again? Do the San Diego Chargers have that strut that oozes from successful teams and players confident in their abilities and ability to win?

LaDainian Tomlinson thinks so.

“We’ve finally come together,” Tomlinson said. “It usually takes a while to build that ‘it’ factor. When we get our swagger going, we’re pretty tough to stop.”

The Chargers don’t look to stop their three-game winning streak Sunday, despite the always-tough Philadelphia Eagles coming to San Diego.

Like they have in all three years of coach Norv Turner’s tenure, the Chargers start slow from the gate they build momentum.

This season is no different as a team which was 2-3 and three games behind the AFC West-leading Broncos is now 5-3 and a game behind Denver.

The Chargers, it seems, never do it the easy way. And Sunday’s opponent is certainly no soft touch, especially with the Eagles being in a sour mood after losing to the Dallas Cowboys last week.

But the Chargers are lassoing another winning run, which is becoming a San Diego tradition.

It seems the Chargers don’t get serious until the scoreboard or standings don’t give them any other choice.

“Maybe we’re just are a mature team that knows how to overcome adversity,” outside linebacker Shaun Phillips said. “There is going to be adversity throughout the season.”

The Chargers got an early dose when they lost both anchors of their lines in the opening game. Also, Pro Bowl linebacker Shawne Merriman was slow rounding into shape after knee surgery and the running game didn’t—and still hasn’t—appeared.

But the Chargers just shrug and head into another battle against an NFC East rival, one game after beating another one, the Giants, 21-20, in the Meadowlands.

“Every team has highs and lows and maybe our lows come at the beginning of the year,” Phillips said.

Other people’s lows come at the end of the year. Look at the Giants—they started 5-0 and they have lost four in a row.

“It’s hard to be perfect for a whole season, so where there is adversity it’s how your respond to the adversity,” Phillips said. “We have done a good job the past few years of responding to adversity.”

The Chargers aren’t out of the woods, not by a long shot.

The Eagles will be a tough foe, then it’s a showdown at Denver. There’s a possible lull with the Chiefs and Browns next on the schedule, but the Chargers jump right back into the fire against the Cowboys and Bengals.

But the Chargers, once again, have climbed off the mat. Just when everyone was writing them off and calling for Turner’s scalp, they’ve reeled off three straight wins. If you want to discount this winning streak because two of the triumphs came against the Chiefs and Raiders, go ahead.

Still, it would be foolish counting the Chargers out—although they have a tall task in beating the Eagles Sunday.

But they returned from New York with more than a foam figurine of the Statue of Liberty. That thrilling win last Sunday could pay off this Sunday and through the season’s second half.

“When you’re able to win in that atmosphere and have that type of excitement in your locker room after a comeback win, it can go a long way,” quarterback Philip Rivers said.

How far? The Chargers are convinced that road will lead to their fourth straight playoff appearance.

“We’ve always had a close team,” Rivers said. “But an experience like Sunday really can bring a team together.”

The Chargers get to prove just that on Sunday against the Eagles.

Series History: 10th regular-season meeting. Chargers lead series 5-4, though Philadelphia has won the last two meetings, most recently taking a 20-17 victory at Lincoln Financial Field in 2005 as the Chargers lost on a blocked field goal. The Eagles have a distinction they can’t be too proud of: They were the victim when QB Ryan Leaf got one of his four career wins as a Charger when he beat Philadelphia in 1998—the last time the Eagles played in San Diego.

NOTES, QUOTES

—If coach Norv Turner needed an instructional video on how to run a “7” route with the game on the line, he would just point to Vincent Jackson’s course on Sunday.

“The last route is how you would team a guy to run that route against that coverage,” Turner said. “It is as good as you can run a route. He gave him a great move off the ball to get a release. He ran up the field as fast as you can, full speed, and when he came out of the break the ball was in the air and Philip made a perfect throw.”

It was a throw that won the game for the Chargers.

• CB Quentin Jammer said it was outsiders, not the Chargers, doubting the team could turn it around after a slow start.

“We have always had character,” he said. “But it was the media that put it out there and said that we were done. We have always known that we have a lot of character. We have seen it previous years where we come back, so I can’t say enough about the character of this football team.”

• Chargers defensive coordinator Ron Rivera spent five seasons as the Eagles linebackers coach from 1998-2003.

• Michael Vick is more than a show piece for the Eagles. “It does present problems in terms of us in our preparation – we have to prepare for it,” Turner said. “And they try to create problems for your defense by spreading you out. It helps get their play-makers in space. The people that say he doesn’t look as fast aren’t the guys getting ready to play him that week.”

• Eagles secondary coach Brian Stewart was part of the Chargers’ staff when it went 14-2 in 2006, his final year with the club after a three-year run.

• Eagles coach Andy Reid has a 3-2 record against Turner-coached teams.

• QB Donovan McNabb always seems to get away from the rush. How does he do it? “He’s a quick guy and instinctive,” Shaun Phillips said. “That makes us more cautious about our rush lanes. That’s how we stop Donovan – us being diligent in what we do.”

• How big is it that OLB Shawne Merriman is finally fit? “He has made a complete difference to our entire defense,” Turner said. “It makes it easier on everybody.”

• The Chargers’ coverage teams will be challenged in tracking Philly’s DeSean Jackson. He averages 15.2 yards per punt return, the third-best mark in the league.

By The Numbers: 5—Number of consecutive games WR Vincent Jackson has a touchdown reception if he can get one against the Eagles.

Quote To Note: “Winning can be contagious, just like losing can be. We’ve been able to put three in a row together against teams with different styles, playing at different levels. Our focus has been there and we really have improved.”—QB Philip Rivers, on the team’s three-game winning streak.

STRATEGY AND PERSONNEL

The Chargers will get a boost at inside linebacker this week with Kevin Burnett returning after being out three weeks with a knee injury.

But in Burnett’s—and Tim Dobbins’—absence, third-string ILB Brandon Siler has done a good job. Look for defensive coordinator Ron Rivera to rotate Burnett and Siler to try and keep both of them fresh.

Dobbins, Burnett’s backup, is likely down one more week from a knee injury.

Player Notes

• WR Legedu Naanee is a versatile player who bears watching. He had three receptions for 20 yards and could be used more if the Chargers go to the Wildcat offense.

• S Kevin Ellison’s move into the starting lineup is paying off. Ellison, a sixth-round pick, had 10 tackles, a quarterback hit and two passes defensed in his best game of the season.

• RB Jacob Hester gets an occasional carry and is used as a blocker, a role he splits with Mike Tolbert. But where he is really making his mark is on special teams and he had a game-saving tackle late Sunday after Philip Rivers threw an interception.

• CB Antoine Cason got a dose of confidence Sunday when subbing late in the game for Quentin Jammer. Cason had an assist on a tackle and helped break up a pass in his brief appearance.

• WR Buster Davis continues to be a healthy game-day inactive. The team isn’t getting much bang from a former first-round pick.

Game Plan: That adage of needing to run the ball to establish a passing game needs to take the week off—at least as far as the Chargers are concerned. Don’t look for them to get stubborn this week and try to get the running game going—they are ranked dead last with 69.6 yards per game. The Eagles allow less than 100 yards per game on the ground, so why would the Chargers try to force the issue this game? They won’t, meaning it’s going to be up the Eagles to match points with the Chargers in what figures to be a shootout. At some point, the Chargers do need to get their running game untracked—to a degree, anyway. But this isn’t the week.

Matchups To Watch: Chargers secondary, which has improved of late, vs. the big-play capability of the Eagles behind QB Donovan McNabb. The backend of the defense has played better, some of that because of the improved pass rush and because the backend was shaken up. But there is a rookie at safety in Kevin Ellison and the Chargers have to be careful he keeps an eye on things so the Eagles don’t go up top. They must keep an eye on DeSean Jackson, who has scored six touchdowns of at least 50 yards this season, including one rushing score and one punt return. He has also has non-scoring receptions of 51 and 43 yards. Through eight games, Jackson has 26 receptions for 530 yards. His 20.4 yards per reception ranks second in the NFL. So CBs Quentin Jammer and Antonio Cromartie must be on their game, but they will also need to some help from the safeties. Among the reasons the Cowboys beat the Eagles last week was because Jackson was restricted to two catches for 29 yards.

Chargers pass rush, which is led by LBs Shawne Merriman and Shaun Phillips, vs. Eagles front line and mobile QB Donavan McNabb. The Chargers have won three straight, in part, because the defenders are meeting at the quarterback. In each of the three latest wins, the Chargers have five sacks in each game. If Merriman, who has four in two games, and Phillips, who has five in three games, can pester McNabb, it could take care of the some of the deeper routes downfield developing and contain the number of big plays the Eagles can produce. The Eagles have allowed 21 sacks. And with RB Brian Westbrook possibly not playing the Eagles might not have a running game – either through rushing or short passes – to lean on. The key here is McNabb being able to buy time and move around – that wasn’t the case so much against Eli Manning and the Giants.

Chargers pass protection, which was keen on Sunday’s big drive, vs. Eagles pass rush that comes from every direction and from nearly every player. The Chargers have allowed 18 sacks, which is about middle of the road. But when the Chargers absolutely had to pass protect – and the Giants knew they were passing – the blocking was sensational in last week’s late drive. Jeromey Clary has been getting some help at right tackle, with a tight end often at his hip in key moments. But the Chargers’ blockers will need to have their head on a swivel as the Eagles have 14 different players with at least a sack. The biggest sacker is Trent Cole and his 7.5 sacks. LT Marcus McNeill will have his hands full with Cole. Rivers will also be hard-pressed to get much past Philly CBs Asante Samuel (five interceptions) and Sheldon Brown (four).

Injury Impact: TE Antonio Gates (foot) skipped practice Wednesday but said he is fine for Sunday.

• RB LaDainian Tomlinson (hip) didn’t work but said it wasn’t serious; he likely will practice Thursday.

• ILB Kevin Burnett (ankle) went through Wednesday’s practice and is a go for Sunday.

• ILB Tim Dobbins (ankle) was limited and appears to be out at least one more week.

• C Nick Hardwick (ankle) was limited and will likely sit out one more game before returning.

• DL Travis Johnson (groin) didn’t practice but will play on Sunday.

• DT Ogemdi Nwagbuo (ankle) didn’t practice but will play Sunday.

• DL Travis Johnson (groin) didn’t practice but will play Sunday.

• OLB Shaun Phillips (ankle) didn’t practice but will play Sunday.

• OLB Jyles Tucker (ankle) didn’t practice and is still in a walking boot. He appears out for Sunday.

City of San Diego suing the Chargers?

Source: Associated Press

SAN DIEGO (AP)—The city of San Diego expects to quickly settle a breach-of-contract suit it filed against the Chargers, which claims the team owes the city more than $170,000 for use of Qualcomm Stadium in 2004.

City attorney Jan Goldsmith, who was elected in November, said the suit was filed just days before the four-year statute of limitations expired. Goldsmith said the matter should have been handled years ago.

“The Chargers sent over a lot of information a long time ago and the city should have gone through it and talked about it,” Goldsmith said Wednesday. “We should have talked about this years ago. The fact that we didn’t, it’s not the end of the world. We’ll sit down, we’ll deal with it. We haven’t even served the complaint. It will be resolved, no doubt about it.”

According to the lawsuit, the team underpaid the city by $125,795 in 2004 as a result of the Chargers claiming skybox rent credits that were previously disallowed by the city for the 1996 through 2000 seasons. The city is also seeking more than $44,000 in accrued interest.

Chargers head to Pittsburgh

We already know this is going to be a fight between two of the most physical teams in the NFL.

They battled Nov. 16 and the defenses were so stingy that Tomlinson scored the only touchdown and the Chargers still lost. The score ended up a paltry 11-10, the first time that score had ever been recorded in the NFL.

According to weather.com, the temperature in Pittsburgh will vary from a low of 20 degrees to a high of 23, with a 30 percent chance of snow. The last game was a chilly, snowy night, and this one looks to be no different.

This part of the season, teams need to have a steady running game to stay competitive, but after RB Darren Sproles took a beating against the Colts over the weekend, it looks like the Bolts' running game will be in the hands of ex-Viking, Chief, and Buccaneer Michael Bennett. There is a possibility Sproles will be able to play extensively, but nowhere near his thirty-plus touches of the last game.

LT isn't even in the equation for the Chargers, because if they plan on getting past the Steelers, they'll need to rest him up in order to heal whatever is wrong—his groin, whether it's a tear or pull.

The Steelers have a bevy of healthy, well-rested runningbacks ready to play, but have a busted quarterback in Ben Roethlisberger. He is expected to play despite suffering a concussion in the final game of the season against the Browns. The two offenses are completely opposite, though both teams have strong defenses that never give up.

Rivers. Pro Bowl snub.

Threw for a franchise record 34 touchdowns, leading the NFL in touchdown's and quarterback rating, 105.5. In the Chargers last game in Pittsburgh, Rivers threw for two interceptions, but that was before the team got hot and won five in a row.

Rivers most likely won't have a running game to keep the offense honest, so he'll have to sling it more than usual. But there is the possibility Sproles will be available for screens—though highly ineffective against the quick Steeler defense.

In order for Rivers to be efficient, the offensive line has to deal with the likes of LaMarr Woodley and James Harrison, a two-time Pro Bowler. These two linebackers combined for 27.5 sacks this season, and don't miss tackles often.

With the Steelers defense applying pressure, their maverick can fly all over the field making plays, whether it's the run or the pass: Troy Polamalu, No. 43, the one with the hair.

Polamalu ended the regular season with seven interceptions, a career best and has been voted to his fifth consecutive Pro Bowl appearance. He is often the eighth man in the box, pulling back into coverage during pass plays and generally disrupting any offense that takes the field.

He is the key cog in the defense when it comes to stopping Philip Rivers on Sunday, as he can be deceiving when positioning himself before a play starts. The Steelers' defensive scheme uses Polamalu a lot in blitzes and stunts, made simply to confound quarterbacks and give the linebackers time to get to said QB.

If Rivers can connect with one of his tallest receivers (either Vincent Jackson or Legedu Naanee) consistenly underneath Polamalu's coverage, he may have a chance to hit a wide open Chris Chambers on the sideline or TE Antonio Gates down the seam.

Vincent Jackson arrested on suspicion of DUI

SAN DIEGO — Chargers wide receiver Vincent Jackson was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence early Tuesday morning in Clairemont, authorities said.

Jackson, 25, was driving east on state Route 52 near Interstate 805 just after 2:30 a.m. when he was pulled over for an observed traffic violation, California Highway Patrol Officer Brad Baehr said.

Jackson, a 6-foot-5, 230-pound player who has been with the team since 2005, was driving a 2008 GMC Sierra registered to him, Baehr said.

He was booked into county jail and was released by 6 a.m., Baehr said.

Jackson faces the misdemeanor DUI allegation as well as charges that he was driving on probation for a prior DUI, Baehr said. The results of a blood test are pending.

The arrest will not keep Jackson from playing Sunday in the Chargers' divisional playoff game at Pittsburgh. The NFL's Collective Bargaining Agreement gives authority to discipline players for alcohol and substance abuses to the league, not individual teams. Any suspension and/or fine would affect next season.

Jackson was at his career best in the 2008 season as the Chargers'second-leading receiver with 59 catches and 1,098 yards. He also scored 7 touchdowns.

Chargers General Manager A.J. Smith issued the following statement on Jackson's arrest:

"We're aware of the off-the-field issue involving Vincent. Obviously we're disappointed. We take these issues very seriously. Moving forward, we will monitor the situation and have no further comment."

After Saturday night's duel against the Indianapolis Colts, Chargers General Manger A.J. Smith called Jackson a true professional and ultimate team player.

“You win championships with players like Vincent Jackson,” Smith said.