San Diego Chargers Three Phase Analysis

ST. San Diego Chargers. SAN DIEGO CHARGERS DEFENSE. B. In terms of special teams, the Chargers didn’t really make any mistakes. Nick Novak made both of his extra points and did not attempt a single field goal. <p>The kick return game was lacking at times, allowing 20.3 yards per return to the Pats while averaging just 16.5 yards per kick return on the offensive side of the ball. In terms of punting, Keenan Allen amassed just seven yards on two returns, while Julian Edelman attained 20 yards on three returns.</p> <p>The real kicker for the Chargers (no pun intended) was the clavicle injury suffered by starting punter Mike Scifres. Scifres was one of the league’s best punters until that point and was virtually invaluable for the Chargers. After an initial Scifres punt for 45 yards, PK Nick Novak took over, averaging 40 yards per punt with a 51-yard long. Scifres is now on injured reserve as the Chargers are in the market for a new punter.</p> <p>Overall, the Chargers did an alright job in the return game and did not allow the Patriots to return any kicks or punts for big yardage. They didn’t make any big plays, but at the same time, the Chargers special teams did not allow any big plays which is something to be desired.</p>