Oakland Raiders Vs. The AFC West: Quarterbacks
By Kevin Saito
Dec 28, 2014; Kansas City, MO, USA; San Diego Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers (17) signals on the line of scrimmage during the first half against the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium. The Chiefs won 19-7. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
When San Diego opened the season on such a strong 5-1 start last season, there was a lot of chatter about how Rivers might be the best he’s ever been, and that he deserved some MVP consideration. But once the Bolts staggered down the line to a 9-7 record to finish the year, that chatter all died down pretty quick.
That being said, Rivers is still currently, the second best quarterback in the AFC West. In 2014, Rivers threw for more than 4,000 yards and 31 touchdowns. Of course, he also got picked off 18 times – the second worst in his career. All of those interceptions could go a long way in explaining the Chargers’ 9-7 record and lack of a postseason bid last season.
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This offseason, the Chargers have tried to keep their championship window open a little bit longer by bringing in a number of different weapons like offensive lineman like Orlando Franklin (from Denver). Also, getting a healthy King Dunlap back is only going to help the team. They also drafted Melvin Gordon to give them a legit threat out of the backfield. San Diego also brought in the likes of Jacoby Jones and Steve Johnson to pair with Keenan Allen.
Antonio Gates, one of Rivers’ most stalwart weapons, is showing the wear and tear of age. He is clearly on the downside of his career and can’t be relied upon as heavily as he used to be. That could potentially be a weak spot in this offense.
Rivers knows how to win and he’s a good quarterback. But coming off a serious back injury, as well as his contract status and uncertain future in San Diego, we don’t yet know what he’s going to look like when the season rolls around. If he’s as good to go as he says, and his future is not a distraction, Rivers is still the second best quarterback in the division.
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