San Diego Chargers Week 15 Three Phase Analysis

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS DEFENSE. C+. Whether or not the Broncos are in an offensive slump, the Chargers defense held up pretty well considering. Despite the Chargers offense scoring on just 20% of their drives (2 for 10), the Chargers defense stepped it up (at times). Denver QB Peyton Manning was held to 233 yards and one touchdown, as the Broncos were just 25% on third-down conversions. As well, the Bolts forced the Broncos to kick five field goals, three of which came inside the Chargers red zone. While allowing pure points is unacceptable, the score could have been much higher on Sunday. <p>Sunday’s performance showed that the Chargers can stop the Broncos to a certain extent. San Diego still allowed 111 yards on the ground and 22 points. Granted, the Broncos have one of the best offenses in football. The Chargers earned a C grade not because they were bad, but because they didn’t make any plays. They allowed just 2.8 yards per carry to Broncos backs, but failed to defend any passes nor get pressure on Peyton Manning (one sack and one QB hit).</p> <p>I will give them credit though for hanging in there despite the offenses lack of effectiveness. Had the Chargers been able to put up more of a fight on offense, they would have won this game.</p> <p>Going forward, I see this Chargers team with high hopes. If the Bolts can keep up the intensity and play on defense while vamping up their offensive performance, I see them going deep into the playoffs.</p>. D. San Diego Chargers