Chargers that need to step up for a big 2013: Offensive Edition
By Matt Welch
The San Diego Chargers are on the brink of being a great football team. There’s no questioning that. One question that floats around in my head, and I’m sure in the heads of other Charger fans, is “Who will step up next season?” The Chargers dont really have that stand out player any more like LaDanian Tomlinson. The biggest superstar on the roster is quarterback Philip Rivers. For this discussion, I’ll keep Rivers out of it. Everyone knows that the quarterback of any team needs to play well in order for the team to have success. So let’s take a look at some other guys who need to come up big in 2013.
Nov 1, 2012; San Diego CA, USA; San Diego Chargers running back Ryan Matthews (24) is defended by Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Javier Arenas (21) on a 31- yard run at Qualcomm Stadium. The Chargers defeated the Chiefs 31-6. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee/Image of Sport-USA TODAY Sports
Ryan Mathews: The Chargers could possibly be shopping around for another running back in the draft or in free agency. Either way, Mathews needs to step up. Mathews has the potential to be one of the better running backs in the league. He has great speed and quick feet. He can make defenders miss and cut just about on a dime. He’s shown that he’s capable of being a 1,000-yard per season type of player but injuries have slowed down that pace. If he can stay healthy in 2013, the running game will pick up and take pressure off of Rivers and the passing game.
December 2, 2012; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Chargers receiver Danario Alexander (84) runs after a reception during the second quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
Danario Alexander: You could make a great case for Alexander becoming the number one guy in San Diego. It would save some money seeing as how the Chargers wouldn’t have to go to free agency and get a guy like Dwayne Bowe or Mike Wallace. Alexander showed signs last season that he can be a great possession receiver. He reminds me a lot of Muhsin Muhammed running across the middle. He has strong hands and deceptive speed. If he steps up, the passing game could open up greatly.
Offensive Line: It’s no surprise here. The entire offensive line needs to step up next season. They were in the top 5 in sacks allowed all season. That’s one category that you don’t want to be ranked high in. The main spot that needs to be focused on is tackle. The Chargers first and foremost need to address this in the off-season. Take a look at Jake Long of make a serious play on Eric Fisher or Lane Johnson in the draft. Even Consider Chance Warmack at the guard spot if he’s available at number 11. Either way, this issue needs fixed for anything to get better on offense.
November 25, 2012; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Chargers offensive tackle Jeromey Clary (66) and offensive guard Louis Vasquez (65) during the first quarter against the Baltimore Ravens at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
You can follow Matt on Twitter @Welch1048.