Chargers-Broncos I

There is no question that this weekend's game beween the 7 and 2 Chargers and the 7 and 2 Broncos is a huge one for both teams. The winner has a game up on the loser and sole possession of the AFC West lead. Regardless of the outcome there will be a rematch in San Diego on December 10th and 6 more games to play. So although this game is hyped up everyone should also keep some perspective.

Because of the 'magnitude' of this game it will be pretty easy to pick out some of the Charger headlines that will surely be talked about amongst the 'talkers' the following week. If the Broncos win Monday's headlines will be: San Diego still has not moved into the 'elite' category of teams. They fail to win a big game on the road. If the Chargers should win they will move into the top 3 category of NFL teams, Rivers will continue to get accolades (this one pending his performance but anything short of awful - which he has yet to be - will gain him praise).

Malcom Floyd has turned out to be a clutch 3rd receiver. With plenty of attention drawn to Gates, McCardell and Parker the speedy and tall Floyd has made the most of his opportunities of late. I think the Broncos are going to come out blitzing a lot to put the pressure on Rivers right away. Making quick reads and plays to key Chargers (Gates/Tomlinson) could be a big key. The Charger defense is still plenty battered, it is unknown if Castillo will be back but Shaun Phillips returned last week and played well.

Prior to last week I really didn't see the Bronco offense winning the game for the Broncos...but after giving up over 500 yards to the Bengals proves that the Charger defense, especially without Merriman, is noticeably weak. The key matchup will be the Charger offense against the Bronco defense. With the Colts able to exploit the Bronco defense about a month ago, I would hope the high-powered Charger offense can do so as well. I think if the Chargers can get out to an early lead and put the pressure on Plummer would be the gameplan.