Last Meaningless Game Tonight, Season Soon To Kick Off

The Chargers play their final preseason game tonight against the 49'ers. It's probably doubtful that any of the starters, with maybe the exception for rookies, will see much if any playing time. I'm not so sure on taking 2 preseason games away to add 2 regular season games, but in my opinion, the last preseason game, as it is now, is a complete waste of time.

So what, if anything, have I learned from this preseason that might better assist me in gauging their success is there? Really, just a few broad observations...

Runningback: Ryan Matthews looks good...but there has been more than 1 preseason wonder that flames out in a hurry. What I do like is the fact that the Chargers had him signed and in camp early enough so that he has had ample time to learn plays and the offense. He looks like he has quick feet and determination. Against the Saints he was hit by two defenders and as they fell to the ground, he continued to churn forward. I think with Darren Sproles complementing him in the backfield, it could be a dangerous combination for the Chargers.

Rivers: I really feel as if I should make a comment on Rivers but there really is no need to do so...he is everything that he has been in the past and continues to demonstrate that he is a winner. If he goes down the Chargers season is likely a short one.

Holdouts: Vincent Jackson and Marcus McNeil both continue their hold out...by all appearances they will be sitting until week 7, then on a 3 game team-imposed suspension and could begin playing for the Chargers on week 10...but with incredibly reduced salaries, so I can't believe that they would be playing all that hard for the Chargers. Two players who appear to be pissing away their careers, imo.

Defense: The defense looks like last years...bad. Merriman is doubtful for the season opener, after his holdout he is promptly injured...just like last year and the year before. I've stated it more than once and will do so again...since he got busted for steroids he hasn't been the same player...in fact has only been injured.

By all appearances the Chargers should win the AFC West again...Broncos will likely be swapping QB's at least once next year if they hit any rough patch. The Chiefs still seem to be in some disarray but have gotten some young offensive talent that should see them improve. And many in the media are proclaiming that now that JaMarcus has left Oakland the Raiders will become a threat again...there was no question that last year the Raiders played the Chargers tough, twice, and were able to string together some pretty good wins.

It's the NFL and anything can happen...any team can be one injury away from a disappointing season or a lucky bounce in week 17 that sends a team to the playoffs.