Live Blog: Chargers/Bengals

Because I got a wild hair...it's time for a Live Blog!

Today's Matchup...San Diego Chargers and the Cincinnati Bengals.

Here's how this is going to go today...I'm going to type and save, and then "Publish" sporadically...probably about every half hour or so.

So, if you want to follow along... You can just read here, and then click refresh every half hour or so.

It's not very efficient...but then again, we are talking about a Chargers game here.

Fair Warning:  Any and All Bengal fans.... I will be a HUGE Chargers homer.  I won't lie, or even pretend to be fair or balanced, or anything of that nature...I'm a Chargers fan.  I will blog as one.

Today's Game features the 7-4 Bengals, who are leading the AFC North and the 5-6 Chargers...who are in 3rd in the AFC West..and their only hope to make the playoffs is with a wildcard birth.

The Bengals have a good shot either way...Win the Division, or a Wildcard.

If the Chargers lose today...they are pretty much out of the playoff race.

Historically, the Chargers haven't fared well against the Bengals (using no scientific data whatsoever to back this up...it just feels like, in the past several times they have faced...the Bengals usually win).

Most of the World/Nation will be tuned into the Broncos/Chiefs game this afternoon...so this Blog has a chance to be the only documented record that this game actually occured.
(I'm picking the Broncos in the other game...and I don't think it will be close.  I could be wrong, but I don't trust that Chiefs team.)

The Game is Scheduled to start in about 5 minutes.  Hold on tight.  Feel free to text or tweet me during the game...I may include you in the blog.

Let's Go Bolts!

We've got Ian Eagle and Charger Hall of Famer Dan Fouts calling the game for CBS today.  Also known as the combination of "The Bird and The Beard".  I like Fouts as the color guy...but he is a Charger Hall of Fame player...and probably had the best NFL Beard of all time.

Fouts beard fears no man.

Cincinnati burns a timeout on the first drive of the first half...that was werid.  Don't see defenses calling time outs that early in the game.

Chargers gaining some decent yardage, early on so far.  Although on all 3 first down plays...they have run the ball...this is kind of a pattern for the Chargers...they like to run on first down.  And they do it alot out of the Shotgun.

The Chargers decide to mix it up, and throw on first down, and run on 2nd and now they are in a 3rd and 10.  What do I know?  Rivers completes a pass to Gates for the first down, and he fumbles.  The Bengals recover, and CBS goes to commercial.

I think Gates could have been down...but I didn't see the fumble very well, because I was typing the blog.

BTW, Twitter is abuzz about the Vikings Bears game...could be a tie?  I refuse to turn the channel on the basis that I'm blogging this game.  I think Gates was down...but then again, I'm an unabashed homer.

The ruling on the field of a fumble, recovered by the Bengals will stand as called.  Not enough evidence to overturn it.  Darn.  The Bolts had a nice drive going there.

The "Red Rifle" takes the field.  Andy Dalton has been struggling this year, but I am a firm believer that the Chargers woeful pass defense will be just what he needs to get off the schnide.  Surprisingly, the Chargers hold the Bengals to a 3 and out on the first drive.

Ryan Mathews is running hard again today.  He's been pretty good this year.  He's not great, he's no superstar, and he's not going to put up big numbers week in and week out, but he's played well this year, and if he could stay healthy...he could end up making a lot of money in his next contract (probably NOT with the Chargers, however).

Bengals hold the Chargers...and we'll see Mike Scifres.  I love Scifres.  He's my favorite punter of all time.  Honest, if I were to ever buy a jersey of a punter....it would be Mike Scifres # 5.

Do I look like a punter, Punk?

Plus, he actually looks like a football player (unlike most kickers)...and he kicked collegiately at Western Illinois...who is in the Missouri Valley Football Conference, the home conference of my SDSU Jackrabbits (Who incidentally dominated Northern Arizona yesterday in the first round of the FCS playoffs).

The Bengals are now moving the ball.  That lost fumble by Gates may be one of the most important things to happen in the game...because the Chargers defense, just can't stop anybody.

Just saw that Manning and Alex Smith each started their games off with an interception.  So, the best Quarterback to play in Kansas City the past two weeks, is Philip Rivers?  Right?  I mean, he didn't throw any interceptions.

The First Quarter concludes, and it is 0-0.  However, the Bengals are threatening...and will probably get a Field Goal at least...and that's if the Chargers can figure out a way to stop them...which they haven't on this drive.

The Law Firm punches the ball into the end zone on the first play of the second half, and the Bengals lead 7-0.  Remember back in the first quarter, when the Chargers weren't behind?  I liked that better.

Impressive Drive by the Bengals there.  Although... to be honest, the Chargers defense isn't very good.  They can't rush the passer, they don't cover well, and they are pretty much a poor tackling team.  Other than that, they are great.

Phil Rivers and his new favorite target, Keenan Allen...just made a beatiful hookup to continue a drive on a 3rd and 10.  Keenan Allen is special...I'm just gonna go out on a limb here.  Play following that...Rivers hits LaDarius Green Down the seam for a TD... Novak kicks the XP, and we're all tied at 7.

They just showed Bengals DC Mike Zimmer on the sideline, I was actually a fan of him being hired as the Chargers head coach last season, when it was clear Norv Turner wouldn't be retained.  I'm actually glad he wasn't interviewed, because I really like Coach Mike McCoy.  But I do have an appreciated for Coach Zimmer...his defenses usually play pretty well.

Chargers actually hold the Bengals to another 3 and out.  A Manti Teo sighting on the first play, breaking up a pass(he's quietly been playing better), and an actual QB sack on 2nd down.  Chargers get the ball back, but their decent field position is ruined by not 1 but 2 penalties, on the punt return.

Keenan Allen.  I just can't help myself.  He Good.  Can not believe he wasn't drafted until the 3rd round.  New General Manager Tom Telesco found a gem in that pick.  Anyway, he just made another beautiful catch.  But the drive stalls out...forcing Scifres to punt again...and it's downed inside the 5 yard line.

BTW, Ian Eagle just mentioned that Scifres has the highest % of kicks downed inside the 20 yard line of any punter in NFL History.  Don't you see why I want his jersey?  The Mike Scifres Jersey!  There should be a Kickstarter campaign for this...yes, buy me a Scifres jersey.

Unrelated Note:  Mrs. Coach...who doesn't like "Dumb Comedies" just burst out laughing at the Anchorman 2 Commerical that was just on.

The Red Rifle just threw the ball about 50 yards downfield...right to San Diego Free Safety Eric Weddle.  I'm not a Bengal fan but, What are you thinking, Andy?  That was not a good decision.  Thankfully, I am a Chargers fan...so.... good job.  Weddle returned it to the 45 yard line...good field position for the Chargers.

Meanwhile, Peyton Manning has thrown 2 interceptions in Kansas City, and Philip Rivers has yet to throw any there.  (also, as he played there last week...he's unlikely to throw any there this season)

2 minute warning, and the Chargers have a first down, on the Bengals side of the 50 yard line.

The Bengals defense rises up and shuts down the Charger offense though, and they are forced to punt.  Bengals get the ball back inside the 20 yard line (thanks Scifres) with just under a minute to play in the half.
-The Bengals play it conservative, so the Chargers burn a couple timeouts to get the ball back.
-When they do get it back (after a great punt), they run a draw play for Danny Woodhead, and that's the half?  Why burn the timeouts then?  Hoping for a good punt return, I guess.

All tied up at 7 at half time.  Pretty good game.  Honestly, I think the Chargers have been playing better, moved the ball better anyway... but the score is tied, because of that Gates fumble.

I think we need a picture to "spruce up" the blog here.  I just changed my facebook "cover" photo to this:

Go Big. Go Blue. Go Jacks!

In other unrelated news:  I'm playing some "Old Man Basketball" tonight at the gym.  I hope I don't get injured.  Just started my marathon training plan this morning.  This leads to an interesting Question:  What will there be more of... Points scored by the Chargers or Points scored by me tonight?  If I was a betting man...I'd go with the Chargers at this point, even with only 7 points at half.  It's been a long time since I've shot a men's size basketball.

First Half Stats that matter:  I drank 3/4ths of a pot of coffee in the first half by myself.  I'm going to lay off the caffeine in the 2nd half, probably need to drink water in the 2nd half because I'm playing basketball tonight.  Stupid Exercise.

Bengals get the ball to start the 2nd half.  They made it out to midfield, and there the Chargers decide to actually play some defense.  Andy Dalton gets called for Intentional Grounding on the incomplete 3rd down pass...which saves the Chargers about 10 yards....Keenan Allen fair catches at the 17 yard line, so that could have been the 7... that penalty may be something.  Anyway...Chargers ball, and I need to go get a glass of water.

Through first series of second half, Andy Dalton is 8-for-13 for 62 yards, OT, 1 int. (41.2 rating).
— UTKevinAcee (@UTKevinAcee) December 1, 2013

Chargers are mounting a nice drive here, but let's see if they actually get points out of it.
-And right after I type that...Rivers hits Gates over the middle, and Dre Kirkpatrick rips the ball out of Gates hands on their way to the ground.  Turnover.  Bengals Ball.  Gates has now lost the ball TWICE in Cinci territory, at least in Field Goal range.  I know he's a future Hall of Famer and all, but Gatesy needs to pick it up.

And, let me say this...if that goes down as an interception...that's a crime.  because all Rivers did was throw a good, completed pass.  His Target is the one who gave up the ball.  Replay Review confirms...Bengals ball on the 25 yard line.  Egads.  It's hard being a fan of this team sometimes.

The Chargers D just blew up a flea flicker near midfield.  BGE looked to pitch back to Dalton, but held on, because a defender was back there.  Gotta say, I love the flea flicker, and that was the perfect time to call it.  2nd and short...near midfield.  Bengals convert on 3rd and short anyway.  Now they are really rolling, and the Bengals are into FG range at the very least.

And a TD pass from Dalton to AJ Green.  The XP by Mike Nugent is good, and the Bengals lead 14-7.  Green was so open on that play, even Andy Dalton could hit him.
FB Message from my favorite Mailman:  The most open AJ Green has been all year.

Let me make this proclamation right now...14-7, with 1:35 to go in the 3rd.  I fully expect the Chargers to tie this game, and then turn around and lose in the most heartwrenching manner imaginable.  It is the way of the Bolt.

On 3rd and 5, the Bengals Blitz, and Rivers calmly steps up and hits Keenan Allen.  Who wisely decided to NOT give the ball to the Bengals for no apparent reason.  A Danny Woodhead draw play, and we are at the end of the 3rd quarter comes to a close.

On an unrelated note:  My lovely daughter is making us homemade pizza for us, from the kitchen.  She's a peach.

Another unrelated note:  Just scrolled my twitter feed and someone had retweeted a quote from Coach K on there...this is common, I follow alot of coaches and people who follow his "twitter quote" account.  Although I have to wonder...why don't they ever quote him the way he talks to his team in the huddle or the sideline?  If the outside world knew how much he cursed at them, would he be as universally beloved?  I doubt it.

3rd and 10 at the Cinci 39 yard line...and throws incomplete for LaDarius Green...who was tackled by the Cinci defender while the ball was in the air.  Which is legal today for Bengals, I guess.  Here's the thing with Pass Interference...I know you can't call it on every play.  However, if you see a guy falling down and he runs into the open receiver's legs...and then he falls down, and still almost makes a one handed catch...that's probably pass interference.  I'm just saying.

Anyway, Scifres punts...fair caught on the 9 yard line (Thanks Scifres!), and it's Cinci's ball.

Bengals running back is tackled for a loss of 1 on the first play.  Bengals called for holding, and the Chargers take the penalty?  WTH?  Instead of 2nd and 11, it's now 1st and 14.  I don't like that decision.

Ona 3rd and 3... Dalton hits his WR Hawkins in stride, and he takes it 50 yards downfield.  Good Grief.  My prediction of tieing the game isn't looking very good right now.  C'mon Chargers...your season is on the line!  3rd and 6 from inside the SD 30, and Dalton calls a TO.  Good.  I need to pee.

Mikw Nugent on to kick the 46 yard field goal, and it's "Wang Dang Sweet Poontang" for Nugent.  17-7 Bengals lead...and privately my prediction of tieing the game before blowing it, is looking bleak.

The Broncos now lead the Chiefs 35 to 21.  (They trailed earlier 21-7...and one of those TD's was a Kick Return by the Chiefs)  The Chiefs just aren't that good.  I'm serious.  I think they make the playoffs and lose in the first round.  And, I think the Chargers will beat them in the 2nd matchup this season too.

And then...as Keenan Allen breaks a long 3rd down gain...he fumbles the ball on his way to the ground.  This is going to be reversed (he was called down on the field)...and the Bengals will get the ball.  This is the curse of the blogger, because I wrote earlier that he didn't do that....now he does it.  That's 3, count em, 3 turnovers by the Chargers on completed passes for decent gains in this game.  And each and every one of them have been recovered by the Bengals.  ARRGH!  Frustrating!  But what am I gonna do?  (although my chance to outscore the Chargers tonight at old man basketball are getting better and better)

The Mike Zimmer defense has done a great job against the Chargers today.  Held them to 7 points.  This after putting up 41 in Kansas City last week.

And The Law Firm fumbles...and Eric Weddle recovers and returns it to the 43 yard line.  Andy Dalton had to make the tackle.  The Chargers aren't done yet!  But they HAVE to score here.  Marching now.
-Woodhead, then Allen, then Woodhead, and they are near the 30 yard line.  Or as I shall, rename it :  The Fumble Zone.  The Red Zone is the 20 and in...the Fumble Zone is the 35 yard line and in. (This designation will be for the Chargers only).

Nick Novak drills a 48 yard field goal, and it's 17-10 Bengals.  Chargers will kick it away and rely (gulp) on their defense to get a stop, and get the ball back in the last 4 minutes.

In other news:

Keenan Allen has fifth 100-yard game of season, his second straight. Eight catches, 106 yards.
— Michael Gehlken (@UTgehlken) December 2, 2013

I love Keenan Allen.  I didn't love that fumble he just had a bit ago.

Oh my Lord... Penalty on the Chargers Johnnie Troutman for a late hit, after the FG, and so the Chargers are kicking off from their own 20 yard line.  Bengals are going to get great Field Position.  They return it to the 34 yard line...that kickoff was Boomed too...it would have been a touchback.  Let's see if the Field Position plays a factor in this.

First play was a deep pass to AJ Green.  Bengals approaching FG range already.  That was really pathetic coverage by Shareece Wright of the Chargers.  Bengals pick up another first down, and there's 3:02 to play, and they are in Field Goal Range...inside the 30 yard line.

The Bengals are Riding the Law Firm down to inside the 10 yard line.  And we've hit the 2 minute warning.  The Chargers really needed 7 points, and not 3 on that previous drive.  Those 3 turnovers by the Chargers, especially the two by Gates in Cinci territory, are HUGE right now.  You have to think they cost SD at least 6 points (2 FG's)... which means this would be a very different game from a playcalling and strategy perspective.

First and goal inside the 5 yard line, under 2 minutes to go, and the Chargers are out of timeouts.  That will be your ball game.  Andy Dalton takes a knee, and he will need to do so, only one more time.

So long to the Chargers playoff hopes.

I am going to sign off.  Gotta eat some pizza and then get ready to play some old man Basketball.

Help Me, Tom Telesco, You're Our Only Hope

The NFL Draft - where every year brings "A New Hope"

It has become a right of Spring.  

The NFL draft comes, and for a few days, we are invested in our football teams once again.  College prospects are broken down, team needs are analyzed, projections are made...

It is a chance for fans to begin to project their hopes and aspirations for the coming season.  The addition of new and exciting college players to their favorite teams roster entices fans to think that maybe, this year could be different.

At the end of each season, there's really one one fanbase that walks away happy.  The fans of the Super Bowl Champions.  Otherwise, it's just varying degrees of misery.

• Perenial contender that continue to fall short (Patriots)
• Teams that have great seasons, but blow it in the playoffs (Broncos or Falcons)
• Teams that have been perennial doormats (Raiders)
• Teams who were contenders, but had dissappointing seasons (NY Giants)

The Draft is a fresh start.  You get your first look at your team's new players.  You see highlight packages of the newly drafted performing at a high level against other college competition.  

If your team drafted someone that you thought would help, you're happy.  If your team drafted someone that was "not on your radar", well, some fans end up "talking themselves into it", while others just want to complain.

On a personal note, I'm excited about the players drafted by the San Diego Chargers this year.  But this isn't really any different from any other year.  Every year, I find myself pulled in.  You convince yourself that if this player could develop, and that player becomes the playmaker he was in college, your team could finally win that elusive Super Bowl.

It's about hope, and dreams, and keeping the fanbase tantalized.

Live Blog: 2013 NFL Draft Round 2

We'll be live blogging once again, tonight.

Although, not in near as much detail as last night.  Mostly, I'll post the picks, and maybe make a comment or two on some of the more interesting selections.  And, as always, I'll be paying special attention to the San Diego Chargers.

Topics of interest tonight:

• West Virginia Quarterback Geno Smith
• Notre Dame Linebacker Manti Teo
• USC Quarterback Matt Barkley

It wil be interesting to see where these players go, and when they will be selected.

For the Chargers, I have my hopes set on one of two Offensive Tackles:  Menelik Watson or Terron Armstead.  So, it's Day 2, Round 2, and I'll be sitting here hoping that one of the tackles fall to the Chargers again.  Weird.  Also curious as to what the team will do in round 3...  I had the Offensive Guard/Center Barret Jones from Alabama in my Mock Draft, but I think that's highly unlikely with the selection of DJ Fluker in Round One.  

If I had to guess on Round 3, for the Chargers at this point... I'd be looking at:  Cornerbacks David Amerson or Darius Slay; Inside Linebackers Kiko Alonzo, or Jon Bostic; or another position of need, which could be Guard, but could also be Outside Lineback (pass rusher) or perhaps Tight End or Wide Receiver.  

It's also possible that the Chargers take a Cornerback like Jordan Poyer in Round 2, basically I have no idea, and I'm grasping at straws.

Stay Tuned tonight... It all gets rolling in about another hour!  

Live Tweeting going on, with the hashtag #DoofusDraft

Mel Kiper was just on the set.... 25 minutes until the draft starts, and he brought out the "tremendous value" slogan.  I love Kiper and his "value pick" selections!

Adam Schefter is tweeting that Jacksonville will make the pick, not trade it, and they are looking at Cornerbacks.

Some great discussion on the "Honey Badger" on espn.  Bill Polian said he'd take him off his board, Trent Dilfer said it would be really hard for someone like that to "turn their life around" when they get all this money, and all they have to do is play football.

Best thing about Round 2...only 7 minutes between picks.
Best thing about Round 3... only 5 minutes between picks.

Just a couple minutes to go, and Jacksonville will be on the clock...

Trey Wingo manning the anchor position tonight for Boomer.  Man, remember the days when Boomer, TJ, and Kiper did all 8 rounds, pretty much by themselves?  Those were the days.

Jacksonville is on the Clock for the first pick of the second round... Pick 33  - Schefter tweeted earlier than Jacksonville is probably picking a corner
With the 33rd pick, the Jaguars select...Safety John Cyprien from Florida International

34th Pick is possibly being traded by the 49ers to the Titans.
-and the Titans select:  Justin Hunter, WR, Tennessee

35th Pick is the Eagles:  TE Zach Ertz, from Stanford  (3 picks in, and no Offensive Tackles yet!)
36th Pick is the Lions: (I bet here come a Tackle...because I did that)
Nope!  CB Darius Slay  Mississippi State

37th Pick is the Bengals (thanks to the Raiders for Carson Palmer...how'd that work out, Silver and Black?)
-RB Gio Bernard from North Carolina  (interesting...didn't see him being the first RB)

38th Pick is the Cardinals:  (no clue what they do here)  TRADED to the Chargers!  Woah!
with the 38th Pick, the Chargers take... Who?  Who? Menelik Watson?  Terron Armstead?
-Linebacker Manti Teo!  Holy Smokes...I'm Blown Away!  Blown Away!  Didn't see that coming.

Hope you play as well in SD as you did at ND.

Honestly, I'm going to have a hard time thinking for the next half hour or so, here.
I wonder what they gave up to get him?  They moved up 7 spots.
And Eisen tells me they give up their 4th round pick.  That's it.

39th Pick is the Jets:  Is it Geno time?  And it is!  QB Geno Smith from West Virginia.

Between Teo and Geno being picked back to back... we should just take a five minute break.
(Smoke em if you got em  #Spaceballs)

40th Pick is the 49ers (sheesh, they fleeced the Titans out of next years 3rd):
-Tank Carradine, DE, Florida State.  (Another Pass Rusher SF?  You don't play fair.)
TWEET from "Red Hed Jess":  I wanted to announce the Niners Pick!

41st Pick is the Bills:  Robert Woods, WR, USC  (pretty good player)
42nd Pick is the Raiders:  (If Al was still here, I know they'd screw this up, now I'm not so sure)
-Menelik Watson, Offensive Tackle, Florida State.... that's one of the guys I wanted!
(of course, that has changed drastically with the Teo pick)

43rd Pick is the Buccaneers:  Johnthan Banks, CB, Mississippi State
TWEET from Frank Caliendo:  BREAKING: Sources say Chargers drafting Manti Te'o may be part of a very elaborate hoax.
TWEET from Adam Schefter:  With 2nd-round selection of Geno Smith, Jets now have surplus of QBs, leading some sources to say team will consider releasing Mark Sanchez.

44th Pick is the Panthers:  DT Kawaan Short, Purdue
45th Pick is the Cardinals: (from the Chargers)-  LB Kevin Minter, LSU
46th Pick is the Bills:  LB Kiko Alonzo, Oregon
(suddenly a rush on Inside Linebackers...Te'o pick looking good)
47th Pick is the Cowboys:  TE Gavin Escobar, San Diego State
48th Pick is the Steelers:  RB Le'Veon Bell from Michigan State (that's 2 before Lacy!  surprising)
49th Pick is the Giants:  DT Johnathan Hankins, from Ohio State
50th Pick is the Bears:  LB Jon Bostic, Florida  (another ILB in the "run" that Te'o started)
51st Pick is the Redskins:  CB David Amerson, NC State

-Been getting alot of the picks before they are announced from Jason LaCanfora's twitter feed, but he totally butchered those Giants and Bears Picks.  Had the RB from UCLA going to both.

-Also, think I'm going to break this into another, seperate post for round 3.  Just getting kinda longish.

52nd Pick is the Patriots:  Outside LB, Jamie Collins from Southern Miss  (Who?  I don't know)  This was one of the picks from the Vikings to trade back into the first round, last night.

53rd Pick is the Bengals:  DE Margus Hunt from SMU (I didn't realize SMU played defense?)
54th Pick is the Dolphins:  CB Jamar Taylor from Boise State (I like this pick)
55th Pick is the Packers:  Traded to the 49ers!
-The San Francisco 49ers select:  TE Vance McDonald from Rice (makes sense, they lost one in FA)

56th Pick is the Seahawks:  Trade to the Ravens!
-And the Baltimore Ravens select:  LB Arthur Brown, Kansas State (another ILB type, I like him)

I gotta admit...my stamina is running out.  I think in the third round, I'll post until the chargers pick, and then wait...and just post the results and thoughts afterwards.  This is exhausting to do for nothing but fun.

57th Pick is the Texans:    Safety, DJ Swearinger from South Carolina  (I bet he's got a potty mouth)
58th Pick is the Broncos:  RB Montee Ball from Wisconsin (another RB before Lacy?  that's strange)
59th Pick is the Patriots:  WR Aaron Dobson from Marshall
60th Pick is the Falcons:  CB Robert Alford from SE Louisiana
-that Pick was announced by Leon Sandcastle!
61st Pick is the Packers:(from the Niners)  RB Eddie Lacy, Alabama (LOVE this pick...good one)
62nd Pick is the Seahawks: (from the Ravens)    Christine Michael RB, from Texas A & M

And that's it for Round 2!  I'm going to have a hard time getting as excited for round 3.  Don't know as many picks, and let's face it, it will be impossible to top the Te'o and Geno picks back to back!

Yowza...I'm already tired.

I Will Not Be Mocked!

Presenting my 2013 San Diego Chargers Mock Draft.

I'm no "draft expert" like Mel Kiper Jr. or Todd McShay, or Mike Mayock, etc, etc...  I don't break down players on film (except one year, when I watched highlights of Running Backs until my head was spinning...that was the year the Chargers drafted Ryan Mathews).  So, I'm not even an "amateur" talent evaluator.

However, every year as the draft starts getting close, I start frequenting a number of draft sites...and what I do is... I look up player rankings, see where the various sites have various players rated and then compare that with what need the Chargers have.  Then, I try to pay attention to some "Mock Drafts" put out by the "experts" and depending on what they are projecting, I try to fill out the Bolts needs accordingly.

In the 5 or 6 years or so I have been doing this, I have made exactly 2 selections in "My" Mock draft that the Chargers actually selected.  Marcus Gilchrist and Vaughn Martin were those two players, and to be completely honest... I had them going one round later than they were actually selected.

Why waste all this time when the team so rarely selects my picks?  That is a fair question.  What I enjoy about the process is that I get to "know" so many more prospects than I normally would, so when I am watching the draft I can go "Oh I had that guy going in the 5th round....that's surprising he was picked in the 3rd".  It just makes the draft more enjoyable, for me anyway.  This is why I'm the self-proclaimed "Sports Doofus".

The Challenge this year is twofold:
1.  The Chargers have a new General Manager is Tom Telesco, and a new Head Coach in Mike McCoy, so I really have no idea what type of players they are looking for, and when they tend to draft them.
2.  The Chargers draft at 11th in the first round, which makes things difficult.  They need some Offensive Linemen, but most Mock Drafts have the top 5 Offensive Linemen going before the Chargers pick.  However, if a few pass rushers and a Quarterback (Geno Smith) sneak into the top 10, it's possible that the Bolts do get a first round lineman...which will then affect how they pick the rest of the way.

One last caveat, I put this together without any trades whatsoever.  Which is sort of an exercise in futility, because there is usually some movement.

Helpful Sites:
http://www.nfl.com/draft/2013  The NFL's site...has good player information.
http://walterfootball.com/  A great site for mock drafts, updated weekly with changes.
http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft  Does a pretty good job ranking prospects, and has good player bios.
http://www.drafttek.com/default.asp  A new site for me this year, I really liked it, lots of good info here.

Round 1 (11) - Jarvis Jones, OLB, Georgia

Barring a "trade up" scenario, I don't see the Chargers being able to draft any of the top 3 Offensive Tackles, or the top 2 Guards.  In weighing team needs, against Best Player available...I think Jarvis Jones is the pick.

He's experienced in playing the 3-4, having played it at Georgia, and he fills a big need as both Shaun Phillips and Antwan Barnes both weren't re-signed.  

Chances this pick are correct:  Slim to none.  No idea what the Chargers will do here.  None.  Bakevious Mingo from LSU is another possiblity here.  Or maybe one of the Guards (Jonathon Cooper, UNC or Chance Warmack, Alabama) falls.  It's very likely that a trade up or down could occur here.


Round 2 (45) -Terron Armstead, OT, Arkansas-Pine Bluff

The Chargers fill their hole at Left Tackle in Round 2 with the pick of Terron Armstead.  Although from a smaller school, he impressed at the combine and Senior Bowl.

The downside of Armstead is he may not be ready to start right away.  He may take some time to develop.  But he's the prototypical size and fills a huge need.

Note:  I'd like to see Florida State's Menelik Watson fall to the Bolts here, but with the top 3 picks going top 10, I don't see it happening.


Round 3 (76) - Barrett Jones, OG Alabama

The Chargers fill another need by drafting Barret Jones.  He is best suited to play Guard in the NFL, after playing all 3 line positions (C, G, and T) at Alabama.  He would step in and be an immediate starter.  In addition, Center Nick Hardwick isn't getting any younger, and Jones could move over to Center, if needed.

Jones had a stellar career at Alabama, winning the Rimington Award last year as the top Collegiate Center, and the Outland Trophy as a Junior as the top Offensive Lineman.  Alabama is also known for their dominating Offensive Lines, and Jones was arugably the best player on it.


Round 4 (110) -A.J. Klein, ILB, Iowa State

The Chargers would look to add depth and a potential starter by drafting AJ Klein in the 4th round.  Inside Linebackers Takeo Spikes and Demorrio Williams were released, and they don't really know what they have yet in 3rd year player Jonas Mouton.

Klein is a guy who could come in and compete for a starting position right away, and otherwise would be a great depth player.  He is known as a guy with "high motor" and hard worker.  Co-Defensive MVP of the Big XII as a Junior, would be a very good "Value Pick"  (channeling Mel Kiper).


Round 5 (145) -Terry Hawthorne, CB, Illinois

Cornerbacks Quinten Jammer and Antoine Cason were not re-signed, and although the Chargers signed Derek Cox from Jacksonville, they could use some depth in the secondary.

Hawthorne just kind of "fits the bill" in all the things you are looking for in a later round draft pick.  He has the size, and all the physical tools.  Needs to get into the right system, with the right coaching and could become a solid NFL player.




Round 6 (179) -T.J. Barnes, NT, Georgia Tech

We've officially moved into "let's take a shot in the dark" territory.  You never have a clue what a team is going to do in the later rounds.  The Chargers lost free Agent DT Antonio Garay to the New York Jets, and starting NT Abreyo Franklin to the Colts, so they have a need at DT position.

At 6'6", 369 pounds, Barnes has the prototypical size for the position.  Even if he lacks some talent/skill, that kind of physical presence can't be ignored, and will take up blockers.  Barnes also has experience in playing the NT in a 3-4 defense, as that is what Georgia Tech runs.  He's a good fit.


Round 7 (221) - LaAdrian Waddle, OT, Texas Tech

If round 6 is "Shot in the Dark", round 7 is "Needle in a Haystack".  Impossible to tell what any team will do.  However, the Chargers have so many holes on the Offensive Line, I think that's where they look to add some depth.

Waddle was a three year starter at Texas Tech, and was twice named to the Big XII first team.  He would not be ready to start, but would strictly be a depth signing as he learns a pro offense.  He has the prototypical size for the position and great experience.


So there you go....the San Diego Chargers 2013 "Mock Draft".  All this means, is that there is very, very, very high probability that NONE of these players will actually be selected by the Chargers.

I'll be watching next Thursday night as the 2013 NFL Draft begins, and see if any of my picks come to fruition.

Free Association - Doofus Style

OK, so I've been really, really slacking in the blogging department the past six months or so.  Well, there are some very valid reasons for this, namely:

1. I started a new job/career, which has kept me very busy...and keeps me on a computer most of the time.  
2. We moved (new job related), and putting things away, getting organized, and household stuff took over.
3. For the first time in two years, I'm coaching BB again, and this has deeply cut into any free time I've had.

Once in a while, I'd have a good idea or two, but then I wouldn't have time, and I'd lose momentum, and then the urge to blog would go away.

So today, I thought I'd just throw down some thoughts and observations about pretty much anything that comes to mind.  

Greetings to my Russian friends!

I went to the "stats" page of my blog, and after Americans...the number of Page views by country...Russia comes in 2nd with 154 page views... (Over 50 ahead of 3rd place, the United Kingdom).  I wonder why Russian people are "stumbling" across my blog.  Or maybe they are American people in Russia... or, whatever, Welcome Comrades!

Podcasts

I painted my son's room today, and while I was working I listened to a couple of different podcasts.  Adam Carolla and Jay Mohr were the two I listened to (they are probably my favorites, along with the BS Report).  The Adam Carolla show is probably the best show in the genre, and honestly there are so many good podcasts out there any more... it's actually quite incredible.  I'd be lying if I didn't mention that I've often thought about doing a podcast myself at some point.  But here's the big catch... I'm boring.  What the hell would I talk about that people would want to listen to?  And who would I talk to?  I don't know many interesting people.  So although it might be something fun to try, it would pretty much only be for me.

Manti Te'o

So the Notre Dame star linebacker was taken in by a "Catfish" scheme, and fell in love with a girl who didn't exist...who then died of cancer.  OK.  Isn't he supposed to be like a very good student, at a very prestigious university?  So far, we've learned that Manti was fooled enough to tell the world that this person he'd never met was in fact, his girlfriend, and that she died the same day as his Grandmother.  I really don't care anymore, at first the story was so incredible I got swept up in it like everyone else.  Although I would like to make special mention of the excellent reporting of Deadspin.com.  They broke the story, and have also done a great job with updates like this.

Rock and Roll T-shirts

Remember that time you got a new job, and weren't allowed to wear PE clothes to work anymore?  And you decided that to "keep it real" you should get some Rock and Roll T-shirts to wear under your sweaters? Oh, that was just me?  OK.  Anyway, waited until I got some Christmas Cash, and ordered 5 classic rock t-shirts.  Looking forward to wearing them. Don't make fun of me.  

Yes, that's a Journey shirt among the Beatles, Zeppelin, and Pink Floyd...deal with it.

Brookings Half Marathon

I've decided to run the Brookings Half Marathon again this year.   I believe this is the 5th time.  Also participated in the Marathon Relay a few times, as well.  Anyways, it's very difficult to find time to get the training in.  If you are looking to run a Marathon, Half Marathon, or participate in a Marathon Relay...I'd give Brookings some serious consideration, it's a great race.

Lance Armstrong

So Lance finally confessed to Oprah.  And people are surprised he came off as arrogant?  Really?  The guy is a giant prick.  I remember first hearing the rumors of doping, and thought "no way".  And every time Lance would come out with a new accusation, and lawsuit, and I'd be all like "you get 'em Lance".  But eventually, too many people kept coming forward, too many teammates turned on him.  And people don't like this guy....the guy who lied to everyone for years and years...and sued people that he knew were telling the truth.  Yes, he's a jerk, he's arrogant, what else did you expect?  The guy only came forward because he had no choice.

Scrubs is fun to watch

Bought the complete collection of all the Scrubs seasons for Christmas, and we've slowly been making our way through them.  I know I've blogged about this before, but it's been really fun to watch, and we've been laughing our butts off around the house.

Twitter is addicting as you've heard

I held out for a long time.  I wouldn't get a twitter account.  Who wanted to hear from me (Judging by my 67 followers...compared to 735 Tweets...not many)?  However, I got tired of reading twitter updates from my favorite sportswriters.. by having to look them up individually, and I broke down and started an account before the NFL draft last spring.  Along the way, I discovered a number of things that are really fun to do while on twitter:  watching the presidential debate, watching the "big game", watching awards shows.  I highly recommend getting one, if you haven't yet.

The Chargers "Start Over"

The Norv Turner/AJ Smith era is over.  After an extensive search, the team ended up hiring Tom Telesco as the General Manager, and Mike McCoy as the newest Head Coach.  I'll reserve judgement until they have had a few seasons to do their job... but the first impressions are really good.  The Press Conference with Coach McCoy was very impressive.  Best wishes to the new guys in charge, and hope they can turn things around.

Hope these guys can lead the Chargers back to respectability.

Zero Dark Thirty

Actually took the wife on a date a few weeks ago, and we attended this film.  I came away very impressed with the movie...it doesn't really take a stance one way or another about the war, the use of terror, or any of those subjects.... it allows you to form your own opinion.

New Year...New Coach...so long, Norv

Yesterday the San Diego Chargers made official what nearly all Chargers fans had known was coming for the past month or so.  They fired Norv Turner as the Head Coach, ending a six year run.

Norv needs some Advil.

So as Team President Dean Spanos and other executives begin the search for his replacement (And the replacement for GM AJ Smith, as well), a quick recap of the Norv Turner era.

He was not an inspired choice.

In fact, if you go back six years, to when the Chargers fired Marty Schottenheimer...they interviewed the following candidates:  Ron Rivera, Rex Ryan, Mike Singletary, and Norv Turner.  I said at the time (and I meant it)  "anyone but Norv".  Most of the members of my favorite Chargers Message Board felt the same way.  In fact one guy started a thread titled, "I'll Punch myself in the Nuts if it's Norv".

So he wasn't exactly a celebrated hire.

Norv was a known quantity.  He was a great Offensive Coordinator, but a poor head coach.  He'd failed in that capacity twice before:  first with the Redskins, and then with the Raiders.  His record as a Head Coach was a woeful 58 wins and 82 losses.

A familiar site for Charger fans the past 6 years.

Norv was a punchline.  The poster boy for the "good coordinator, but can't handle the head job", was handed the keys to a 14-2 team.

Over the past six years there were many highs (Making the AFC Championship game in his first year, beating the Colts twice) and many, many lows (missing the playoffs the past 3 years, and a .500 record in that time).

He ended his run as a Head Coach winning 3 of his last 4 games, to finish his final season with a 7-9 record (his only losing season in SD).  This was not surprising, as Norv's teams in San Diego had a history of "finishing" strong.  In Norv's second season, the team was sitting at 4-8, and dead in the water...and promptly won the last four games....won the division at 8-8, and then won a home playoff game.

That kind of sums up the Norv Turner era.  He wasn't a bad coach.  Not terrible.  Only 1 losing season in 6 years (and that one being 7-9) is not the mark of a poor coach.  However, he wasn't a great coach either.  They lost games they shouldn't have, on multiple occasions...at which point you'd count them out, and then they'd go on a run.

I'm not a gambling man, but I would think placing wagers on the Chargers in the Norv Turner era would have been an exercise in insanity.

And it wasn't always that they lost games...but the way they lost them.

You had the 2010 season in which the Chargers had four blocked punts (and one that was "deflected"), and 3 kickoff returns for touchdowns, and a punt return for a touchdown.  These breakdowns were directly responsible for 3 losses, for a team that finished 9-7 and missed the playoffs.  They could have been 12-4.

You had the 2011 season in which the Chargers, driving for the win late in the game in Kansas City, Phillip Rivers fumbled the snap on a "kneel down" play (the Chargers were just trying to run the clock down before the final snap), the Chiefs recovered, and went on to win in Overtime.  The Chargers finished that season 8-8 and missed the playoffs (9-7 would have won the division).

Norv Turner seemed somewhat like a tortured genius   Somewhat like the "absent minded professor", there were moments of brilliance, but often moments of befuddlement.  It seemed like he was almost too smart for his own good.  That he was so far in the future, setting up plays for the 4th quarter or something, that he forgot where he was...what he was doing.

Throughout 6 seasons of (mostly) ridicule, derision, and (mostly) failed expectations, Norv Turner was able to hold on to the locker room.  I've seen teams quit on coaches before (see last year's Chiefs team, or the Vikings quitting on Chilly in 2010).  In fact, it's fairly common once it's understood in the locker room that the coach won't be back.  It would have been easy for the Chargers to "mail it in" these past two weeks, after losing to the Panthers in week 15.  They didn't.

So an era has ended, and a new one will begin.  Who will they hire?

• A previous NFL HC like Jon Gruden?
• A college HC like Chip Kelly?
• A NFL Coordinator like Mike Zimmer (Defense) or Pete Carmichael (Offense)?

Will Bengals DC Mike Zimmer get a shot in San Diego?

Regardless of who the Chargers hire, Norv Turner will land on his feet.  I expect him to be calling plays on an NFL sideline next season (there are 6 other staffs that will be looking for coaches), and Charger fans will no longer be calling for his head.

Pre-season Game Diary: Chargers/Packers

Since tonight kicks off the NFL preseason games, and the fact that I am currently staying with my parents during the week for work (long story), I thought tonight would be a good opportunity to break out another game diary.

My Dad is a life-long Packer fan, so I thought it would be fun to jot down what went on during the game.

Not in attendance tonight is my brother Chuck, who is also a Packers fanatic.  He is also a certified member of the "Mike McCarthy Haters Club".  I think McCarthy is a pretty solid coach, but then again my team is coached by Norv Turner, so I'm used to FB teams underachieving.  I'm expecting some texts from Chuck during the game... maybe I'll share a few.

The pregame show just confirmed that Keyshawn Johnson is the worst studio analyst on the network.  He mentioned that the Chargers let Mike Tolbert go (the didn't, he was a free agent who signed for less money in Carolina), and that Rivers likes to throw to tall WR's, and how are Robert Meachum and Eddie Royal going to fill the shoes of Vincent Jackson?  When everyone knows Antonio Gates is the primary target for San Diego's offense, and I'm pretty sure Rivers completed a few passes to Darren Sproles over the years, who isn't exactly very tall.

Breaking News:  espn reporting a Lakers trade for Dwight Howard is considered "imminent".  Very exciting news.

Also, the first female referee will work an NFL game tonight.

On a personal note, I'm looking forward for South Dakota State Jackrabbit Dale Moss to see his first NFL action tonight.  An undrafted free agent, Moss played 4 years of BB for SDSU before playing one year of FB.  I'll be pulling hard for him.

Also excited to see the Chargers first round draft pick Melvin Ingram.  Supposedly he's been playing great in camp.  Along with fellow rookie defensive player Kendall Reyes.  I'll be watching for those guys.

7:00 Welcome to Qualcomm stadium.

Mike Tirico and Jon Gruden are calling the game.  I like Gruden, but man, does that guy like him some quarterbacks.  He gushes about pretty much every one.  Wonder how much qb love he'll throw around tonight?

They mention the "replacement officials" due to the NFL officials lockout, and also mention the first female official, Shannon Eastin.  She is hoping she doesn't get noticed during the game.  That's probably the right mindset.

7:07 Mason Crosby kicks off, and preseason is underway!  Touchback.

Philip Rivers and the Chargers offense take the field. 
First play is a quick 6 yard pass to Antonio Gates.
The second play is a sack of Rivers by Packers Rookie Nick Perry.
Perry is flagged for "Unsportsmanlike Conduct" after the play.  On the replay, it didn't look like much, causing Gruden to say, "I'm not sure why the called that".  My Dad laughs at this.

Scifres punts, and the ball is downed inside the 5 yard line.
Dad:  "I can't See!"  (My Mom had walked into the room in front of him.)

7:16 MVP Aaron Rodgers and the Packers start on there own 3 yard line.
First play is a pass, Rodgers was flushed out of the pocket, and then James Starks drops an easy pass.
Gruden loves how Aaron Rodgers manipulates the snapcount.

3rd and long, and of course Green Bay converts.  The Chargers were the worst team in NFL history on 3rd down defense last season.  Ok, well not in history, but in 60 years.  It was bad.  Something they need to improve.

3rd and 5, and another conversion.

7:20 Starks fumbles the ball.  Looks like he didn't take the handoff cleanly.
Former Packer, and new Charger Atari Bigby recovers the fumble.
Dad:  He was an old Packer.  I don't remember much about him, but I remember he was a Packer.

7:23 Chargers take over on the GB 26 yard line

7:26 Rivers hits Antonio Gates down the seem for a pretty 23 yard Touchdown pass.  Kaeding kicks the extra point.

Chargers 7 Green Bay 0

7:30 Kaeding kicks off, and the Packers return man, Diondre Borel fumbles the return.  Chargers recover.

7:32 Philip Rivers throws a pass intended for Robert Meachum and is picked by Tremond Williams.  Terrible pass by Rivers.

This is ugly.  3 Turnovers with the starters playing.  6:31 to go in the first quarter.

The Head Referee in this game looks scared.

7:37 Packers go 3 and out, and have to punt.

7:39 Chargers rookie RB Michael Hayes loses a fumble, and the Packers AJ Hawk recovers.

4 Turnovers already.

Green Bay takes over at the San Diego 42 yard line.

On 3rd and 2, Rodgers just misses James Jones.
On 4th and 2, Rookie Linebacker Melvin Ingram gets pressure on Rodgers, forcing a bad pass that is intercepted by Antoine Cason.  Nice play by Ingram there.

5th Turnover.  We're still in the first quarter.

7:46  Jarrett Lee from LSU enters the game as the Chargers QB.  We'll see no Charlie Whitehurst tonight.  "Clipboard Jesus" has a slight knee injury and won't play.

Chargers have to punt and Packers punt returner, Shaky Smithson muffs the punt.  The Packers recover.  He lived up to his name on that play.  Shaky.

7:49 Graham Harrell enters the game as the QB for GB.
He promptly misses his first 2 throws.  3 and out, and the Packers punt.

7:53 1st Quarter ends.  7-0 Chargers up.

No texts from Chuck yet, but I gotta feeling they are coming.

This is when pre-season gets confusing, you don't know half the players.

The Chargers go 3 and out, and have to punt.

Dad:  Typical first game, it's a comedy of errors.

Packers go 3 and out, and have to punt.

This is pretty boring.

8:05 Jarrett Lee returns to lead the offense.
He makes a couple of first downs on passes.
Lee actually looks pretty good, better than Harrell anyway.

8:09 Time out called by Norv.

Drive stalls out on the 17 yard line.
Nick Novak promptly boinks the field goal of the left upright of the goalpost.  Somewhere, message boards are blowing up with the epic Kaeding/Novak debate.

Graham Harrell returns to the field and throws a couple inaccurate passes.  Then finally completes one, but for no gain.  He doesn't look very good to me.

Packers punt.

Curtis Brinkly gets a couple of runs for a first down.  He has a great story, I'm pulling for the him.

Lee throws a nice pass to WR Vincent Brown for a 36 yard gain, and then hits Brown for a 27 yard Touchdown.  Vincent Brown looks like a player.  Novak Makes the Extra Point! 

Chargers 14 Packers 0

Novak kicks off, and it's returned to the 30 yard line.

Graham Harrell actually completes a pass!  Of course it was on a 3rd down play.

2:00 warning

1st and goal, and Harrell is Sacked by Larry English.  Flag on the play however, as Melvin Ingram gets called for "Hands to the Face".  1st down again.

8:36  On second down Harrell completes a TD pass to Randall Cobb from 3 yards out.  Crosby kicks the extra point.

Chargers 14 Packers 7

8:39  Lee takes a knee, and its Halftime.  14-7 Chargers.

Text from Chuck:  Packers D still trying to prove who needs to know how to tackle?  We have a gimmick defense and a huge waste of talent.
(He hates the coaches)

Text from Chuck:  They were the worst defense in the league.  They had huge talent.  The gimmick wore out and that's all Capers had.  The Packers are in Trouble.
(He really hates the coaches)

Text from Chuck:  The pack has proven they can have success in spite of, not because of their $h!tty coaching staff.
(He really, really, hates the coaches)

Honestly, I think the Packers coaches are alright, but admittedly I don't watch all their games.  I just know they win alot.  And my team has Norval calling the shots.  And I will admit, Aaron Rodgers would make most Head Coaches look good.  He's phenomenal.

8:52 Tirico and Gruden return for a game of "Who's in that jersey?"

8:54 Harrell starts the 2nd half like he started the first, missing an open WR.
The Packers go 3 and out, and punt.

Jarrett Lee returns for the Chargers, he looks pretty good for a rookie in his first game action.

9:02 As I write that down, he fumbles a snap.
9:02 And then throws an interception.

9:06  Highlight reel on Melvin Ingram.  Showed college highlights, and clips from he first half.  I'm really excited about this kid. 
-fellow rookie Kendall Reyes gets a good pass rush, and forces another Packers punt.

9:14  Dale Moss is in the game!  Just went in motion.
Harrell misses Moss badly on 3rd down, and the Packers have to punt again.

9:19  Chargers take over.  Lee still at QB.  Thought that we might see Kevin O'Connell this drive.
On 3rd down and 10, Lee completes a short pass to Curtis Brinkley.

And the Puntfest continues...

9:22 Find myself hoping that Moss gets a reception.
9:24  And he does.
9:25 Harrell completes a 3rd down pass, and Gruden raves about him.  Guess he hasn't noticed all his other throws.
Thow the ball to Moss!

9:27 end of the 3rd quarter.  Chargers 14 Packers 7

9:31  Moss with a 7 yard catch

9:34 Moss with another catch, and gets some love from Tirico.

9:38 Green Bay running back Marc Tyler drives the ball in for a touchdown.
Green Bay goes for 2, and the pass attempt fails.  Should have thrown it to Moss.

9:53  Nothing of interest has happened on the field in the past 15 minutes.
-But, It sounds as if the Dwight Howard to the LA Lakers deal is official.  The Lakers will keep Pau Gasol.
-Nash, Kobe, Metta, Gasol, Howard = Wow!  This coming NBA season is going to be fun.

9:56 Lee completes a nice deep ball down the left sideline.  He doesn't look too bad.  He'll probably get plucked by another team if the Chargers try to sign him to the practice squad.

10:03 Curtis Brinkly jumps over the pile for a TD.  He's shown better than Hayes in this first pre-season game.  Still a longshot to make the roster though.
Chargers 21  Packers 13

10:07 QB change for the Packers, rookie BJ Coleman from UT Chattanooga.

10:13 Game Over

Thoughts?  Well, hard to tell.  Such a mixture of players and such, and with all the subbing, not a lot you can take away from a pre-season game.  Melvin Ingram does look promising though, and Jarrett Lee looked better than I thought he would.

For Green Bay, they better hope nothing happens to Aaron Rodgers.  Harrell wasn't getting it done tonight.  But again, it's just one game, and a preseason game at that, and the first one. 

These will definitely be two teams, I'l be keeping my eye on this season.

Saying Goodbye to Seau

I didn't want to write this post.

Over the past few weeks, every time I sat down to write something I realized that I needed to cover Seau's passing, before I discussed anything else.

It's hard for me to do this.  As a fan, what words can I use to describe this man, what was it about him that set him apart from so many others?  I never met the man, didn't know him personally, and had no relationship with him other than through my television screen.

In 1999 I was invited to go to the Metrodome to see the Chargers play the Minnesota Vikings.  My brother Rich, and few close friends had tickets to the game and had one seat left to fill, knowing what a Chargers fan I was, I was invited to go.  The Vikings had a very good team that year, this was the season following their 15-1 campaign in 1998, and the Charger's weren't very good, coming off a 5-11 season in which Head Coach Kevin Gilbride had been removed during the season, and interim coach June Jones chose to go coach college ball in Hawaii.

So that brought in NFL Head Coaching newcomer Mike Riley and the Chargers ended up 8-8 that season. However, that day in Minnesota... the Chargers were severely out manned, and they lost that day, 35-27.  I remember leaving the Metrodome just in awe of how good Seau was.  He was everywhere... they'd run a sweep to Robert Smith Seau would make the tackle, they'd throw a pass to Randy Moss... Seau would be there.  He was literally in on nearly every defensive play.  If he didn't make the tackle... he'd be the next guy there.  He was infectious, and to be honest... I didn't even realize Jeff George played QB for the Vikings that day until I looked the game up.  When the Vikings had the ball, I was mesmerized, and my eyes were glued on #55 for the Chargers.

Part of the reason that I've struggled to write this is I didn't know what to focus on.

Was it the way he played?  Passionate, Relentless, Intense.  Yeah, that was part of it.  The guy just played so hard, and with such joy.  I'm the type of guy who never likes it when a defensive player does a "celebration" before a 3rd down play... the offense still has a chance.  However, I couldn't help but grin whenever Jr. would do his trademark "leg kick and fist pump" after a big play.  He couldn't help himself.

Was it because he was a good teammate?  Hearing the stories of guys like Teddy Bruschi (who he only played with for 3 years) rave about what a good locker room guy he was.  Reading this story and hearing about how he took fellow South Dakota State Alum Doug Miller under his wing, just reinforced things I had heard for years about him.

Was it because of his leadership capabilities, how he was respected in and outside of the locker room?  Certainly.  I remember very clearly sitting in Fort Smith Arkansas in July of 1992 and reading a pro football preview magazine (before the Internet days) and reading about how Jr. had assumed a leadership role on the team (even though he was only finishing his second year), and that they were predicting great things for that same team.

Was it because of his humble beginnings?  I suppose so.  He was the son of Samoan immigrants, and he never forgot his background.  He treated everyone with respect (or so I've read).  How he was gracious and humble to all people.  This is someone who not only lived the American dream, but he also remembered what it took to get there.

Was it because of his insatiable work ethic?  ESPN gave a ton of play to Teddy Bruschi's story about when he joined the Patriots, and the training staff was having a fit because Jr. was showing up to work out in the morning at 4 am?  Keep in mind... this was someone in his 17th year in the league... a sure fire hall of famer. This wasn't someone trying to avoid being cut, this was a legend... and he couldn't stand the thought of anyone else outworking him.

It was all these things, and more.  How he was a great person outside of the game of football, winning the NFL's Man of the Year award in 1994?  How he welcomed the poor and disadvantaged into his restaurant in San Diego each Thanksgiving?

He was a 12 (straight) time pro bowler, and 8 time All NFL player at linebacker.
He was the AFC Player of the Year in 1994. (the year the Chargers made the Super Bowl).

He was the first NFL player whose jersey I bought.  I still have it.  I even wore it during the Giants/Patriots Super Bowl when that Patriots team was chasing the perfect season.  Keep in mind... I hated that Patriots team, I wanted them to lose, I was cheering wholeheartedly for the Giants (and the fact that those Patriots had just defeated the Chargers in the AFC Championship game).  Yet, even though I was cheering against his "current" team, even though I wanted the Patriots to lose... I wore Seau's jersey.  Out of respect for what he had meant to me.

I'm not going to go into his death.  What the circumstances were, or whether he had concussions, or suffered from depression, or what.  The truth is we don't know.  No one knows.

So, I'm going to choose to celebrate the man for what he was, and let it be.

Rest In Peace, Junior.

Draft Leftovers, and the NBA Playoffs start.

First of all, just a quick recap of the chargers, and their draft picks.  Why the chargers draft picks?  Because that's my team... and that's really the only team I look into in depth.

Round 1.  Melvin Ingram DE/OLB South Carolina
-I really like this pick.  In fact, I like it more today than I did on Thursday night.  Now, if in a year or two I still like it alot, that will mean something.

Round 2.  Kendall Reyes DT Connecticut
-Another solid pick.  He'll play a DE in the chargers 3-4.  As I went looking through the draft boards, and draft sites, and yes looking at the message boards of a few of their division rivals... teams were pretty unhappy that the Bolts ended up with him, so a good pick.

Round 3.  Brandon Taylor SS LSU
- Chargers had a need at safety, and tried to fill it with Taylor.  Not sure if he's ready to step on the field yet, and they need someone to do that.  But, they didn't reach for him in the 2nd round.  They held their ground, and he fell to them in the 3rd (although they had to move up to get him).  Most analysts felt he was the 3rd or 4th best safety in the draft, so it looks good on paper.  Now, can he play?

Round 4.  Ladarious Green  TE  Louisiana-Lafayette
-I actually had my eye on this guy as a possible draft pick not long after the season ended.  I liked his athleticism and speed.  However, then the chargers re-signed Randy Micmichael, Kory Sperry, and then signed FA TE Dante Rosario.... and then all TE's fell of my draft radar.

Round 5.  Johnnie Troutman OG Penn State
-The only real "head scratcher" of the Chargers draft.  Troutman is noted as being really talented, but unmotivated and overweight.  (He also had the slowest time of all players at this year's draft combine).  However, with all that said... He was a 3 year starter at Penn State, and according to their stats, never given up a sack.  That's pretty impressive in the Big 10.  He's a real wait and see kind of guy.

Round 6.  -traded away the rights to this pick to the dolphins to trade up and grab Brandon Taylor in Round 3.

Round 7.  David Molk C Michigan
-Outstanding pick.  Maybe the best pick in the draft, after Ingram.  In Molk you have a guy who, was the four year starter at Michigan.  All Big 10 First Team, All American First Team (depending on which award list you look at), and Rimington Award Winner (the award given annually to the nation's top center).  How did this guy last to the 7th round?  Well, he had an injury or two, and he's small for a center... he also put up the most reps of any offensive lineman at the combine.  And he has an attitude.  I love this kid.  Remember him in a year or two, when he takes over for Nick Hardwick as the starting Center.

Round 7. (Compensatory pick)  Edwin Baker RB Michigan State.
-To be honest, I could take or leave this pick.  He had a great Sophomore season, but last year, his junior year, he lost carries to a freshman who was a better prospect.  The chargers have a need at the back-up running back position, and 7th round picks rarely make the squad anyway... so it's a roll of the dice.  I got a feeling they'll pick up a FA running back, and Baker will get a year on the practice squad.

Also, just wanted to give a quick shout-out to my boys at TheNFLForum.com.  My favorite Chargers message board, and the place to go if you want to talk Chargers football.

NBA Playoffs - Kickoff

- Quick glance at each of the 8 first round playoff series.

Bulls Lead the Sixers 1-0
-to be honest, the real story here is Derrick Rose tearing his ACL late in game 1.  The Bulls won alot of games without Rose in the lineup this season.  But the playoffs aren't the regular season, and you have to think this put a serious dent in Chicago's playoff hopes.

Heat Lead the Knicks 1-0
-It's not like the Knicks had that much of a shot anyway.  But losing Iman Shumpert to and ACL injury in the first game of the series sounded the death knoll for the Knicks.  This went from possibly being a 6 game series, to a potential sweep.

Magic Lead the Pacers 1-0
-The Magic should not be leading the Pacers.  The Pacers are a team that is fun to watch, and fun to cheer for, however Stan Van Gundy is doing a great job of embellishing his resume just in case Orlando management decides to side with Dwight Howard and let him go at the end of the season.  I'm thinking this one could go 7 games.

Hawks Lead the Celtics 1-0.
-This wasn't that big of a story, until Rajon Rondo "accidentally" bumped into an official late in last night's game.  The NBA has pretty hard and fast rules that "if you bump into an official, you will sit a game".  They played without Ray Allen last game, who is nursing an ankle injury, and it's possible that game 2 may be played without Allen and Rondo, you've gotta think that leads to a 2-0 Atlanta lead before they head back to Boston.  And I don't care if the Celtics come back to win the series, the last thing this Aging and Undersized team is going to want to do is play more games than necessary... They can't be playing 7 game series each round and expect to make a run, they just can't.

Spurs Lead the Jazz 1-0
-I mentioned this yesterday to my brother, who was at my house.  If the Jazz are the 8th seed in the West, that says something about how tough the Western Conference is.  The Jazz have an advantage in the frontcourt... but their backcourt is going to have to do a much better job than they did in game one if they want to make this a series.... Tony Parker was running around like the fastest kid in school at recess yesterday.

Thunder Lead the Mavericks 1-0
-The Mavericks are 1 bouncing off the rim, Kevin Durant closing moments shot from taking away home court advantage from the Thunder.  Honestly, I could see this going either way.  1.  The Thunder have survived their game one scare, dominate in game two, Split in Dallas, and clinch at home in game 5.  OR... The Mavericks see how close they have come... decide, "we're the defending champs, we ain't going out like this", and stretch the series out over 7 games.  I still see the Thunder winning, but the Mavs have a big advantage in coaching...and adjustments are huge when it comes to the playoffs.

Lakers Lead the Nuggets 1-0
-I'll just come out and admit it early, I'm a Lakers fan, and so I'm biased.  But I really thought the Lakers win in game One was the most impressive game played by any team so far in the first round.  However, what does that mean?  Bupkiss.  I would not be totally shocked to see the Nuggets pull off a game 2 win.  I think game two is going to be close no matter who wins... I have no faith in this current Laker team to dominate a series.  I just don't.  They are good when they play good, but they can play awful.  I'm not sure what to think of Mike Brown yet, I think he's done a decent job managing all the egos he has to handle, but then again he hasn't blown me away either... I mean...you wait until the last week of the season to make Jordyn Hill your 3rd post?  Really?  I think he's been a good player, and I've enjoyed watching his work ethic on the court, but shouldn't he have gotten a shot a bit earlier?

Clippers Lead the Grizzlies 1-0
-I woke up this morning shocked to hear the final results of this game.  I thought for sure the Grizzlies would win.  The Clippers have Chris Paul, and Blake Griffen, and ???   I could see this one going 6-7 games easily, and I can still see either team win it.  I don't trust the Clippers.  I don't trust Vinny Del Negro (who Chris Paul had to beg to get put back into the game last night) over the course of a series to make the right moves.  However, anytime your main hopes for a team to win rely on the name, "Z-Bo"... well, let's just say that's anything but a lock.  Personally, I more inclined the Clippers falling behind by 27 points means more than the comeback win.

Chargers draft: Round One Analysis and Round 2 and 3 Predictions.

OK, after last night's draft frenzy... I withdraw from looking at other teams are doing, and am now concentrating on my chargers.

First Round Pick Melvin Ingram.
-Love this pick.  Quite honestly, I'm still in shock he was on the board when the chargers picked.  I was convinced we were going to end up with Mercilus, Jones, or McClellan as our first round pick.  And there is nothing wrong with any of those guys... It's just that Melvin Ingram is better.

I'd like to personally send a thank you to Pete Carroll for drafting Devine, and to Rex Ryan and Jets for taking Couples.  Who again, I think both are good players... but I like Ingram better than both.

Not sure how the probable best defensive player in the draft fell to the 18th pick, but I'll take it.

2nd and 3rd round predictions.
Boy, this is really tough to do, because the Bolts could go in a number of directions here, and it really is going to depend on who other teams take.

Cordy Glenn the big Guard from Georgia is still on the board, which is surprising, and the Bolts lost OG Kris Deilman in the off-season, but no way he lasts to pick 17... they'd have to trade up to get him.

I've also heard safety mentioned with the Chargers a lot, but the Vikings move up to get Harrison Smith from Notre Dame puts that on the back burner, maybe a 3rd rounder, but not in the 2nd.

Courtney Upshaw from Alabama still isn't drafted.  But, the Chargers would need to move up to get him, and he plays the same position basically as Ingram, so I don't see that happening either.

My predictions that don't mean a thing for the chargers are:

2nd Round -Brandon Brooks OG - Miami (Ohio)
-AJ usually avoids offensive linemen early, but the only reason this guy has fallen this far, is that he plays at a small school.  The Chargers have a need at OL, and safety, and this guy is a better prospect than any safety that's available.

3rd Round - Isiah Pead RB - Cincinnati
-I know alot of Chargers fans want LaMichael James with this pick, and I'd be ecstatic if he fell that far, but I don't see it happening.  Isiah Pead is a nice running back, if not a "scat back" like James.  The best thing about Pead, is he has good hands, and is good in pass protection.  This is an area where Ryan Mathews struggles and Pead can come in and be a threat as a 3rd down back.  We'd be set at back with Mathews (starter), Hester (short yardage), and Pead (passing back).

Signing off for now.

Chargers Pick! and others...

Jets at #16 are on the clock.  - gotta figure another pass rusher is gonna go.  I'm thinking Ingram from South Carolina.
- Jets are taking their time.  Meanwhile Rich Eisen is amazed that we're halfway through the first round in an hour and a half.
-down to the last minute here... and the pick is in.  The Jets select Quinton Couples DE from North Carolina.  I actually liked Ingram, Mercilus, and Jones better...

Only the Bengals pick before the chargers.
-I haven't paid much attention to who the Bengals are targeting.  I think I'd heard running back, but I'm doubtful that they will pick a back here.
- and the pick is in CB Dre Kirkpatrick from Alabama.  Becoming the third pick from the National Champions defense.

Chargers on the clock!  Chargers on the clock!  Will it be another Alabama defender?  Maybe Melvin Ingram?
-that's my pick!
-and the pick is in... that did NOT take one minute off the clock on the screen.
-With the 18th pick, the San Diego Chargers select... Melvin Ingram  OLB South Carolina.  Excellent pick for me.  Love him. That's the guy.  Never dreamed he fall to the 18th pick!

Kiper thinks Ingram is the best pick from the middle of the first round.

The Bears are at 19, and Brother Rich says they should go Offensive line.  Maybe South Dakota native Riley Reiff?  Shea McClellan OLB from Boise State.  He'll play DE in the Bears 4-3 opposite of Peppers.  Could be an excellent pass rusher.

20th pick The Tennessee Titans .. are up next.  No idea what they'll do.
They just announced the patriots have traded up to the 21st pick...  and will select DE Chandler Jones
Titans selct WR Kendall Wright, WR from Baylor.  I don't know much about him.

Chargers/Ravens Game Diary

OK, just thought I'd try this for fun.  It ended up quite long, so feel free to skim around.

Never done a game diary before, so I really don't know what I'm doing.  I sat down with a notebook and a pen and wrote down what I saw as it happened, and then typed them in after the game.

7:12 pm  Settle in on the couch, I'm ready for the kickoff.

For those that don't know, I'm kind of a die-hard Chargers fan.  So I'll probably be plenty partial as I write this, but so far it's been a good day for the Chargers.  The Denver Tebows lost at home, the Raiders lost at home, and for San Diego to make the playoffs they have to win all 3 of their remaining games.  It's just like Norv planned it!

Anyways, it's been a crazy day in the NFL.  The Packers lost to KC?, the Colts won?, the Giants lost to the Redskins?, the Eagles CRUSH the Jets?, Reggie Bush rushes for 200+ yards?  I mean, Chargers beat the Ravens could fit right in, right?

7:14 pm NBC cuts to Ray Lewis screaming "Play like dictators!" which led to my wife saying, "Who is that?  He sounds like a maniac."  I wonder if Ray ever thinks about his buddy sitting in prison for murder.

Chargers still have some (slight) playoff hopes.  Here is what we needed coming into today.
1.  Broncos have to lose 3 straight.  They lost the first one today.
2. The Raider have to lose 2 of 3, and they lost today, and play San Diego in week 17.
3.  The Chargers have to win all 3 games.  The first, and toughest task, will be Baltimore tonight.

7:19 pm Tony Dungy picks the Ravens to win.  Rodney Harrison picks.... the Chargers?  Something strange is afoot.  He NEVER picks the Chargers.  Particularly if they are playing a "physical, smashmouth" style of team like the Ravens are known for.

7:23 Faith Hill has been waiting all day for Sunday Night.
Chris Collinsworth - the Chargers could make some noise in the playoffs, but they will need help and also need to get by the Ravens tonight.

Sports Doofus - if the Chargers lose tonight Norv Turner is as good as fired.  And, it won't be easy as the as the Ravens are in a battle for the #1 seed in the AFC.

7:30 Michelle Tafoya interviews Norv Turner on the field
Norv Turner - We've been playin good.  Playing a tough team tonight.  Rivers needs to play "within himself".

Thanks for the insight Norv.

Michelle - possible injury to starting Ravens CB Webb.
Thanks Michelle

7:31 pm Nick Novak kicks off to start the game.  Touchback.

First Play - Ray Rice off the left side for 21 yards.  Ouch

On a 2nd and 12, Flacco badly misses a wide open Boldin over the middle.  The Chargers and their fans need Flacco to suck tonight.

On 3rd and 12, Flacco hits Boldin for a big gain of 34 yards.  At SD 34 yard line already.  (Sigh)

Chargers Hold.  and Raven's K Billy Cundiff misses a 36 yard FG attempt.  Charger Ball.

7:40 pm Chargers first play - Phillip Rivers completes a short pass to Ryan Mathews and he turns it into a 13 yard gain.

Michaels notes that the Chargers have had 11 different starters on their Offensive line this season.  (NOT a good thing against this Ravens defense)

on 3rd and 7 Rivers hits Randy McMichael for a 1st down.

7:42 pm  A little "Trickeration" by Norv!
-A Reverse pass option given to Vincent Jackson... pulled it down and got a 9 yard gain on the run.

Mathews on a nice gain up the middle, but fumbles.  Jared Gaither starting Left Tackle for the Chargers (as of 2 weeks ago) recovers.  Whew!  Mathews needs to get over that fumbling problem.  He's really fun to watch.

7:47 pm Rivers calls a timeout with 2nd and Goal at the 2 yard line.  Nice drive so far, Norv has been mixing up the play calling on this drive.

7:49 pm Bring Mike Tolbert in to carry the ball and he's stuffed.  3rd and Goal from the 2.
-Draw play to Tolbert scores a touchdown.

-First time in 21 games that the Ravens D has given up a score on the opening drive.  Norv is a genius in December!  The "Accessory to Murder" (AtoM, for short) was blocked well by Tyronne Green on the TD run.

7:53 pm On the kick return, #37 from Baltimore played well beyond the whistle and basically tackled a Charger on kickoff coverage.  This leads to a scuffle, pushing, shoving, taunting... from both teams.

NBC come back from commercial and there are no penalties on the previous play?  And NBC doesn't discuss it, either.  Evidently, Baltimore can play beyond the whistle, jump on the pile, and pull off helmets, and this is well within the rules of the game.  Kind of like watching Duke play basketball, if it's Duke it's not a foul, because "that's how they play".

Ravens bring out the "Don't Blow This For Us, Joe" Offense.  This features lots of hand offs to Ray Rice, and short passes to Tight Ends.

8:02 pm End of 1st quarter  San Diego 7 Baltimore 0
-if San Diego can stop the run... I like their chances, Flacco has been off on a couple of throws.

8:05 pm Rice starts the second quarter like the first, with a nice run for a 1st down.  Inside the San Diego 20 yard line, now.  Short Run, then incomplete pass.  3rd and 8 on the 15 yard line.  Flacco threads the needle on a beautiful pass to Tight End Ed Dickson for a TD.  Great Throw, Flacco.  Score is tied:  7-7.

That was a nice drive by the Ravens and what they want to do.  Survived a few errant passes and pounded the ball well.  Although, the drive survived because Flacco was able to scramble for a 12 yard gain on a 3rd and 10.  I swear your local junior high quarterback could scramble for a first down against this version of the Chargers defense.  It happens every game.

8:12 pm  Rivers takes over at the 20 yard line, following the touchback.
-lets see how the Ravens defense reacts to that first drive by the Bolts.

8:14 pm Rivers gets sacked on what I call a "Norv Drive".  (The Norv Drive - short run up the middle, followed by a deep pass out of Shotgun formation.  Repeat. )
Run Mathews - Pass for a first down.
Run Mathews - Sack - BUT, a penalty on Terrell Suggs for slapping McMichael on the side of the head saves the day for the Chargers.  1st down off the penalty.

Norv Drive - continues.
-Run Mathews - Deep Pass to Gates, first down
-Run, pitch to Mathews... big loss.  2nd and long... Deep pass to Vincent Jackson...incomplete.  That was there, Rivers overthrew him.

8:21 pm 45 Yard Field Goal by Nick Novak is good.  10-7 Chargers lead.  7:44 to go in the Half.
(-Feeling good.  got points off a "Norv Drive".  Let's see if the Ravens go back to the "DBTFUJ" Offense, or if they let him wing it since that TD pass was on a rope.

8:26 pm  Joe Flacco is sacked...but penalty flag on the play, false start on the Ravens, back up and do it again.
3rd and 10 - 11 Yard gain.  (If you wrote this stuff, meaning the Chargers play, as fiction, no one would  believe it.... too improbable)

8:30 pm Flacco overthrows a wide open Ray Rice on 3rd and 3.  He would have gained 20 yards.  Flacco is really, really, erratic.  That TD he threw was a laser fired between two defenders, and yet, he's had a couple of BAD misfires.  I mean, just bad.
-Punt is a touchback, so SD will take over on the 20 yard line.

8:33 pm There is 3:11 to go in the half as Rivers approaches the line. (Please don't turn it over.)
-Mathews up the middle for 2
-Pass to Floyd dropped, so it's 3rd and 8.  2:21 to go in the half.

Ravens bring a ton of pressure and Rivers makes them pay.  58 yards down the left sideline to Vincent Jackson.  NBC cuts to a look of Flacco on the Baltimore sideline that is just precious.  (That's how you play QB in this league, Joe)  2 minute warning.

8:37 pm 1st and 10 at the Baltimore 20 yard line.

8:38 pm Rivers hits Malcolm Floyd and it's first and goal at the 1 yard line.  Tolbert up the middle, stuffed by AtoM.

8:40 pm Pitch to Ryan Mathews around the right side.  Touchdown.  :19 until halftime.  17-7 Chargers lead.

8:42 pm Flacco takes the field in the Shotgun from the 20 yard line following the kickoff.  Hits Rice for a nice gain out of the backfield.  Timeout Ravens with 4 seconds left until half time.  (Please no PI to set up a field goal attempt)
8:44 pm Flacco sacked by former Raven Antawn Barnes to end the half.

Norv for President!
-Seriously, the Chargers look great.  The Ravens seem caught off guard, like they expected an easy game.  Norv may or may not be back coaching this team next year.... but they never quit on him.  All that being said, it's only halftime and this Chargers team has found about a thousand different ways to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory over the past two seasons.

9:00 pm Ravens kickoff - Touchback
Nervous Charger fans are waiting for the sky to fall.
-Michelle Tafoya reports that the Ravens coaches are saying the officials need to call holding on the Chargers offensive line.  However, Norv Turner told her that the Chargers are simply blocking better.

Thanks Michelle, glad you cleared that up.

3rd and 8 and the Ravens Blitz, Rivers beats them deep to Malcom Floyd for 16 yards.

Ravens Blitz again... Rivers beats it again, complete pass to Vincent Brown for 15 yards and the Bolts are across midfield.

9:05 pm Nice Run by Ryan Mathews around the left side for 18 yards.

9:06 pm Philip Rivers hits Malcolm Floyd deep for a TD.  The extra point is good.
-AtoM looks absolutely pissed on the sideline.  NBC breaks out the "San Diego Super Charger" song from the early 80's as they go to commercial.  24-7 Chargers.  (Really?)

9:08 pm Ravens come out throwing, in the Shotgun.  Possibly a good sign for the Chargers?
-Tommie Harris sacks Joe Flacco... Harris has been a great addition as a mid-season pickup.  He's played well.  2nd and 18.

(As a Chargers fan, I like seeing Flacco back in the 'gun.  Less Ray Rice to worry about)
-Sack by Antawn Barnes.  Wow.
-a late flag comes out, facemask on Barnes during the sack.

9:15 Quinten Jammer drops a sure pick on a tipped ball.
-Next Play - Linebacker Takeo Spikes intercepts Flacco and rumbles to the Baltimore 25.  Replay shows that Flacco threw it right to him.  Although, to be honest, he was wide open on the play.
-Chargers are penalized 15 yards for excessive celebration after the return.  Of course.

6:23 to go in the 3rd quarter.  Rivers takes over at the Baltimore 42 yard line.
-Chargers go to "Norv Drive" mode.  run, pass.  run, pass.  Then...Pass complete to Floyd!  First and goal at the 4 yard line of the Ravens.

9:21 pm Ryan Mathews leaps over the pile (from the 4 yard line?) for a touchdown.  Novak kicks the extra point.  31-7 Chargers lead.  4:05 left in the 3rd quarter.  Norv for President!

9:27 pm Ravens take over
-NBC runs a graphic stating that the Chargers are the first team in history to score on their first five possessions against the Ravens franchise.

9:30 pm Shaun Phillips intercepts Joe Flacco on a tipped pass.  Wow.
-2 incomplete passes and a draw by Tolbert leads to a field goal attempt by Novak.
-Novak hits the right upright from 37 yards out, which leads to a scintillating conversation between Michaels and Collinsworth on how John Madden would have called that a "doink".

9:35 pm Ravens come out in a Shotgun offense, and are running no huddle.  (This does not displease me.)

9:36 pm  End of 3rd quarter.  31-7 Chargers lead the Ravens.

9:38 pm  Start of the 4th quarter.
-Flacco sacked by Barnes.  Again.  I'm not sure I'd consider my team to be a Super Bowl contender with him as my Quarterback.  Nice punt by the Ravens will pin the Chargers on their own 1 yard line.

9:41 pm Rivers gets the Ravens to jump off-sides on first down.  First and 5 at the 6 yard line.
AtoM tackles Jacob Hester by the facemask.  This leads to a penalty flag being thrown, and then picked up?  What the heck was that?  Barnes had half that amount on Flacco earlier.  Officials are probably worried about Ray and his buddies knowing where he lives, or something.

9:45 pm  Tolbert runs a draw play up the middle for 22 yards.
-Ummm... Baltimore?  Norv runs that play all the time.  But thanks, anyway.
-Chargers have now moved to the 44 yard line, all on the ground (and had an obvious facemask penalty picked up off the ground for no reason).

9:47 pm  On a 3rd and 5, Rivers hits Mike Tolbert on a screen pass and he picks up a first down by spinning away from AtoM.  However, in Ray's defense he wasn't able to reach Tolbert's facemask.

9:49 pm Ryan Mathews breaks a big run to the left.
-Chargers are at the 10 yard line of Baltimore.  This drive has taken over 9 minutes, started at the San Diego 1 yard line, and had exactly 1 pass play (a screen pass to Tolbert).  FG by Novak is good.  34-7 with 4:28 left to play in the game.

9:56 pm Flacco takes over and immediately floats one down the left sideline near no one on the field.
-NBC cuts to the Ravens sideline and shows their defensive players, they are pissed.
-Chargers are playing backup Linebackers now, as Bront Bird and Andrew Gachkar are playing for Donald Butler and Spikes.

10:01 pm Flacco is sacked for the 5th time.  Shaun Phillips was in there, and is down.  Hope he's OK.

10:02 pm Flacco throws a 36 yard TD pass to WR Torrey Smith.  1:55 to play.  34-14 Chargers lead.
-Backup safeties Oliver and Stuckey were in the game on that play, ignored by the announcers.

10:06 pm  Onside kick attempt by Baltimore.  Recovered by the Charger's Patrick Crayton.  Flag on the play.  Illegal touching by Baltimore, so it's Chargers ball at the Raven's 44 yard line.

Hester with a carry up the middle and Baltimore calls time out.  1:48 to play and down 20 points, and the Ravens are hitting after the whistle and calling timeouts.  Classy.  Both Suggs and AtoM get in late hits after every whistle.  Rivers lets the clock run down to 57 seconds and calls timeout.  Norv calls for a run on 4th and 2 instead of punting, and Mathews is just short, so the Ravens take over on downs.

10:13 pm  Ravens send out Tyrod Taylor at Quarterback?  Why were you just calling timeouts, Harbaugh?  Taylor sacked by Corey Leiget.
-3rd and 13 with 9 seconds left.  Complete to Anquan Boldin.  Tackled.  Game over.  34-14 Chargers win.

Thoughts:  I guess the Chargers players do want to keep Norv around.  That game was a clinic.  Baltimore, if I were a Ravens fan I'd officially be worried.  You just got pounded by a team that people consider to be "soft".
The Chargers, if they don't make the playoffs (and let's be honest, the odds are against them) they will have no one to blame but themselves.  They gave away 2 divisional games against Kansas City and Denver that they should have won.  You win those and you are a game up in the division.

No excuses are acceptable.  But they showed tonight what they are capable of, and that they can beat "physical, running" football teams.  Great job by the entire team tonight, and yes, great job by the coaching staff.  Norv, you did good.