San Diego Chargers Week 16 Three Phase Analysis

O. San Diego Chargers. SAN DIEGO CHARGERS OFFENSE. B+. If I could truly judge this San Diego offense, I would give them two grades. I would give them a D- for their first half performance and an A- for their second half play. <p>In the first half, the Bolts scored just one touchdown in comparison with the 49ers three touchdowns. Philip Rivers was inaccurate and weak at times in the first half. He completed 9 of his 15 throws, with two of his passes being intercepted. One of those interceptions was taken back  by Antoine Bethea 49 yards for a touchdown. Rivers did have a good drive with Antonio Gates and Eddie Royal, but did not have any other good drives in the first half. In terms of the first half running game, Branden Oliver and Donald Brown were somewhat effective. Oliver had a big run of 22 yards which was a highlight of the first half. Other than that though, the Chargers did not have a very eventful first half performance.</p> <p>The second half, however, was a different story entirely. In the second half, the Chargers scored three offensive touchdowns and miraculously overcame a 14-point deficit. Especially convincing was Philip Rivers 14-play, 80-yard drive which resulted in a game-tying, 11 yard touchdown catch by Malcom Floyd. Particularly great was Philip Rivers’ ability to score two touchdowns in under five minutes of play. In overtime as well, Rivers had two key completions which ended up setting up Nick Novak for the game-winning, 40-yard kick.</p> <p>Overall, the Chargers offense performed more than adequately. Philip Rivers and the Chargers offense was extremely clutch in the fourth quarter and is the reason why they ended up winning the game. A reignited Rivers-Royal connection proved to be the difference on Saturday night. Not to mention, some key receptions from Dontrelle Inman were undoubtedly pivotal to the Chargers win.</p> <p>Antonio Gates and Rivers’ two touchdown receptions, while not the main focus, were pretty important. Look out for Gates and Rivers to be working hard in the Bolts season finale against the Chiefs.</p>