San Diego Chargers Week 11 Keys to Victory

Nov 2, 2014; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins defensive tackle Earl Mitchell (90) sacks San Diego Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers (17) at Sun Life Stadium. The Dolphins won 37-0. Mandatory Credit: Brad Barr-USA TODAY Sports

Win the “Battle of the Trenches”

As we have heard week in and week out, the Chargers have either won or last the supposed “battle in the trenches.” In the past three games, the Chargers have lost the battle in the trenches, resulting in three straight losses as well. While the Bolts were playing teams coming off bye weeks and played Denver coming off only four days rest, the Chargers offensive and defensive lines need to step it up.

On the offensive side of the ball, Philip Rivers has had some time in the pocket, but it has been very inconsistent at times. Against Miami, Rivers was sacked three times and hit five times on the day, resulting in a fumble and one interception. If the Chargers are going to see any success against this veteran Oakland Raider defense, the offensive line is going to have to step it up. If the line can get a nice push against Oakland, it will open up so much on the offensive side of the ball. Rivers, in turn, will be able to step back and throw and Ryan Mathews will be able to run the ball in his first game back from injury.

On the defensive side of the ball, the Chargers will need to establish a pass rush early and win the battle against the Raiders offensive line. San Diego still ranks 25th in the league with 15 sacks. Corey Liuget as well as the entire Chargers defensive line have been under-performing all year. This season the Raiders offensive line ranks second best in the league with just 10 sacks given up. While Derek Carr’s offense has been average, if the Chargers don’t consistently rush the rookie, it could spell potential problems late in the game.

Next: Ryan Mathews