Chargers Handle Raiders

LaDainian Tomlinson has had a slow start to the season but quickly erased any doubts some may have had as to whether or not he has 'peaked' yet or not. Tomlinson rushed for 198 yards and all 4 Chargers touchdowns.

The Charger defense looked much better and it may seem that Norv Turner and Ted Cottrell may have 'clued up' and are using the Charger personnel that better utilizes their strengths. Namely the linebackers Shaun Phillips and Shawne Merriman. Both had good games and were pressuring Culpepper all day. Previously it seemed as if Phillips and Merriman were either in pass coverage(???) or on the sideline when their talent is rushing the quarterback.

I still have little to no faith in either coach... I think Turner and Cottrell are not smart enough to have this team beat anyone good. The Chargers are on their bye week this week and the schedule looks to be a little easier - at the moment - which lends me to think that the Chargers should post a semi-respectable record, look like a team that could do something in the playoffs but will fall short...but of course, first they need to make the playoffs and I still think Turner and Cottrell will make sure the Chargers lose a few games they should have won on coaching alone. But for at least one week it was good to see the Chargers play well and are currently tied for the AFC West lead.