I’ll spare you my Patriots hatred and concentrate on the game and, specifically, the Chargers. As I’m sure you know, the Pats are 14 point favorites in this one. I have no doubt the Chargers have their work cut out for them: many of their starters are hurt (but playing, as well they should be), the Pats are at home, and, well, let’s face it, the Pats dynasty is well-established. However, I think the Chargers have a chance if…
- LaDainian Tomlinson gets the ball more than once every other three plays. He’s a great player and an all-around good man. He does get whiny, I’ll give his haters that much, but that doesn’t bother me so much, as long as he contributes and gives it his all. He does need a ring to guarantee his trip to the hall of fame. Some disagree with me, but I’ll stand by my opinion that stats are all well and good, but real hall-of-fame caliber players get championships. Period.
- Philip Rivers keeps that hot head of his cool under the pressure. If he thinks the Colts fans were giving him crap last week, wait till the Pats fans get their opportunity to egg Rivers on. Those fans LIVE for that. They will consider it their mission to get under his skin. Look for “Rivers” taunting chants within the end of the first quarter.
- Receiver Chris Chambers has a big game. He’s been a very valuable addition to the team. The Dolphins gave him away for a song.
- TE Antonio Gates isn’t going to be as explosive as he usually is, what with his toe injury, but if he can stay in the game, he will be able to make an impact, even with just his presense.
I know it’s pretty generic, but I am not convinced that this game won’t be a blow out in favor of the Pats by halftime. I hope the Chargers can pull off a miracle, but not terribly optimistic.
