Los Angeles Chargers: 2018 Midseason awards
By Tyler Schoon
Defensive Player of the Year
- Derwin James, S
- Melvin Ingram, DE
- Denzel Perryman, MLB
Who is the all-around best player on defense this season? Perryman leads the team in tackles, Ingram has been doing much better in the past three games, and James is a rookie phenom. The stats tell me who the clear and obvious winner is, though. Ingram’s most impressive stat, as is the number most look at for defensive ends, is his team-leading 3.5 sacks. Perryman’s most impressive stat is his team leading tackles, with 47.
But James has both of them beat, because he’s almost got those two stats by himself: 3.5 sacks, 44 tackles. He’s done what they’re best at at almost the exact same statistical level, while still notching a team-leading six passes defended and one interception.
Offensive Player of the Year
- Mike Pouncey, C
- Melvin Gordon, RB
- Keenan Allen, WR
If I were to build my offense around one of these three players for the next 7-10 years (I’m assuming they’re young and healthy here), then I’m going with Pouncey. Gordon is a close second, but does he make the same impact without the improve line play in front of him? Pouncey’s presence has all but solidified the interior of the line for the Chargers, giving both Rivers and Gordon career-best starts to open the season.
He’s possibly the most impactful signing of Telesco’s tenure as general manager, and if healthy will lead the Chargers to the post season. He’s been that sensational, and as Pro Football Focus’ (subscription required) eigth-best center, Pouncey will look to make the Pro-Bowl in his first year with the Chargers.
Most Valuable Player
- Mike Pouncey, RB
- Derwin James, S
- Philip Rivers, QB
It’s impossible to not vote Rivers here. While No. 17 is typically the team’s most valuable player every year, the first half of his 2018 campaign has been sensational. He’s third in passer rating, third in touchdowns, sixth in completion percentage, and second among the top 10 touchdown leaders in TD-INT ratio. His offense is fourth-best in total yards and eighth-best in points per game.
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No one makes their team run quite like a quarterback can, and with Rivers dealing like he has been, it’s no surprise the Chargers rolled into the bye week with a four-game winning streak.
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