Chargers-Patriots Storylines

In what seems to be a fairly talked about game...and probably so because of so many different storylines this games has...the Chargers-Patriots game will hopefully live up to the early billing it is receiving.

Of course there is the Marty's playoff woes leading the pack. He is currently riding a 5 consecutive playoff game losing streak, where twice in those past 5 appearances he had the #1 seed. In 2005 Marty almost single-handedly lost the game for the Chargers against the Jets by getting a personal foul for no reason. Here is a synopsis of Marty's playoff losses, it is too painful for me to even look at.

Then of course we got Tom Brady who's playoff record is 11-1 and Phillip Rivers who is making his first playoff start. Many sports talkers are saying that the Patriots will most likely focus on shutting down Tomlinson and put pressure on Rivers to win or lose the game for the Chargers. Well, most teams went into their games against San Diego with that exact same mindset and you see how well that worked out for the rest of the NFL. But I do admit that Rivers does need to play mistake free football against the Patriots or else they will exploit every error he makes.

And of course there is LaDanian Tomlinson, the league's MVP. How will he perform after a spectacular season. Shawne Merriman, who has the steroid cloud hanging over his head at almost every mention. He will most certainly be 'juiced up' (pardon my pun, but too irresistible) to put on a good show.

Just announced today that former Charger, now Patriot, Rodney Harrison is out for Sunday's game. He is still a fan favorite for many Charger fans and would have likely gotten a good cheer from the crowd for his years as a great Charger player. I also think that Rodney is a big part of the Patriots defense. I also do believe he was their defensive captain when the Patriots won their last Super Bowl, and if so, you can see that he also has that leadership quality that good team's need.

On the Chargers side of the ball, Luis Castillo healed up and will be starting this Sunday. That is really good to hear because it does seem that on big downs Castillo has made some big plays.

I've heard about 50/50 on people picking this game. I am hoping it is a good game (for the Chargers) and if you look at the 'big' negatives for the Chargers - Marty, Brady, Rivers - the negatives really aren't that bad. Marty, don't coach at all this Sunday. Stand on the sidelines and watch the game. Merriman, you sack Brady on every pass attempt. And Phillip, you hand the ball off to LT and once the Patriots are sucked in, play-action pass it to Vincent Jackson for a touchdown. Bam, Chargers win!