Reflecting on Turner's onsides kick decision
January, 19, 2010
1/19/10
10:00
AM ET
By
Bill Williamson | ESPN.com
We don’t have to wonder what the Chargers’ brass thought of Norv Turner’s controversial decision to attempt an onside kick late in Sunday’s playoff loss to the New York Jets.
The Chargers clearly accepted the call as they gave Turner a three-year extension on Monday night. The team wasn’t hung up on the decision and neither am I.
After San Diego scored a touchdown to cut the score to 17-14, Turner opted to go for an onside kick with just over two minutes remaining. The low-percentage attempt failed and the Jets took over in San Diego territory. The Jets converted on fourth-and-short to run out the clock.
That’s why I really don’t have a big problem with Turner’s decision. His defense couldn’t make the play. Turner’s decision gave the desperate Chargers two chances -- one on the onside kick and another on fourth down. The Chargers couldn’t make a play.
There are plenty of reasons for the loss. There’s the Chargers’ uncharacteristic sloppy play, Nate Kaeding’s two missed field goals from inside 40 yards and Philip Rivers’ two second-half interceptions. The Jets also did many things to win this game. I have a difficult time believing Turner’s decision is at the top of the list.
What do you think? Fill up the comment section with your thoughts.
The Chargers clearly accepted the call as they gave Turner a three-year extension on Monday night. The team wasn’t hung up on the decision and neither am I.
After San Diego scored a touchdown to cut the score to 17-14, Turner opted to go for an onside kick with just over two minutes remaining. The low-percentage attempt failed and the Jets took over in San Diego territory. The Jets converted on fourth-and-short to run out the clock.
That’s why I really don’t have a big problem with Turner’s decision. His defense couldn’t make the play. Turner’s decision gave the desperate Chargers two chances -- one on the onside kick and another on fourth down. The Chargers couldn’t make a play.
There are plenty of reasons for the loss. There’s the Chargers’ uncharacteristic sloppy play, Nate Kaeding’s two missed field goals from inside 40 yards and Philip Rivers’ two second-half interceptions. The Jets also did many things to win this game. I have a difficult time believing Turner’s decision is at the top of the list.
What do you think? Fill up the comment section with your thoughts.



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