Manti Te'o should improve with experience
October, 1, 2013
Oct 1
7:20
PM ET
By
Eric D. Williams | ESPN.com
SAN DIEGO -- A quick look at Sunday’s box score shows San Diego Chargers rookie linebacker Manti Te'o totaled three tackles in his regular-season debut against the Dallas Cowboys.
Te'oTe’o, who had been sidelined since suffering a sprained foot in preseason play back in August, wanted to play more. According to ESPN Stats & Information, Te’o was in on just 14 snaps.
San Diego coach Mike McCoy said Dallas played “11” or “Kings” personnel most of the game, meaning they had three receivers, one running back and a tight end. The Chargers countered by playing with five or six defensive backs to match up personnel-wise.
So Te’o was replaced by nickel linebacker Reggie Walker, who totaled 44 snaps and four combined tackles.
Although Te’o wasn’t on the field a lot, he made an impact when he was. Specifically, Te’o got to the ball on every play, bringing an energy and swagger that is desperately needed on San Diego’s defense.
“He needs to continue to fly around,” McCoy said. “His strength is to run to the ball and make plays, and that’s what the game is all about. The more snaps he gets, the better shape he gets in every week he’s playing and the more practice time he gets, he’s just going to get better and better.”
With just two forced turnovers in four games, the Chargers are looking for some playmaking on defense. And that’s something Te’o has shown he can do from his college days at Notre Dame. He finished with 113 tackles and seven interceptions his final season for the Fighting Irish.
The Chargers should see more traditional, two-back formations against Oakland on Sunday, which should mean more time for Te’o.
San Diego coach Mike McCoy said Dallas played “11” or “Kings” personnel most of the game, meaning they had three receivers, one running back and a tight end. The Chargers countered by playing with five or six defensive backs to match up personnel-wise.
So Te’o was replaced by nickel linebacker Reggie Walker, who totaled 44 snaps and four combined tackles.
Although Te’o wasn’t on the field a lot, he made an impact when he was. Specifically, Te’o got to the ball on every play, bringing an energy and swagger that is desperately needed on San Diego’s defense.
“He needs to continue to fly around,” McCoy said. “His strength is to run to the ball and make plays, and that’s what the game is all about. The more snaps he gets, the better shape he gets in every week he’s playing and the more practice time he gets, he’s just going to get better and better.”
With just two forced turnovers in four games, the Chargers are looking for some playmaking on defense. And that’s something Te’o has shown he can do from his college days at Notre Dame. He finished with 113 tackles and seven interceptions his final season for the Fighting Irish.
The Chargers should see more traditional, two-back formations against Oakland on Sunday, which should mean more time for Te’o.
Jeff Gross/Getty ImagesThe Chargers placed Dwight Freeney, above, and Malcom Floyd on season-ending injured reserve.SAN DIEGO -- Two frontline players for the San Diego Chargers are done for the season. Receiver Malcom Floyd and pass rusher Dwight Freeney will be placed on the season-ending injured reserve on Tuesday.
Buddy Baker, Floyd's agent, announced the news via Twitter, which the team later confirmed.
Floyd has missed the past two games with a neck injury suffered Sept. 15 at Philadelphia. While trying to haul in a Philip Rivers pass across the middle of the field, Floyd took a hard hit from Philadelphia's DeMeco Ryans and Nate Allen on the first play from scrimmage after halftime.
Floyd was taken off the field on a stretcher, and transported to a local hospital for further observation. A CT scan on Floyd's neck was negative.
San Diego coach Mike McCoy said last week Floyd was getting better, but the team was meeting with doctors to determine what was best for the 32-year-old receiver's long-term health moving forward.
Freeney, 33, suffered a torn quadriceps muscle during the second quarter of San Diego's win over Dallas last week, and opted to have season-ending surgery to repair the issue, according to the team.
Freeney signed a two-year, $8.75 million deal with San Diego in May, which included $4.75 million in guaranteed money. Although Freeney had just half a sack through four games, he had been creating consistent pressure on the quarterback.
A weekly examination of the Chargers’ ESPN.com Power Ranking:
Preseason ranking: 23 | Last Week: 19 | ESPN.com Power Ranking since 2002
The San Diego Chargers move up two spots to No. 17 after an impressive win at home against a talented but inconsistent Dallas Cowboys squad.
Now sitting at 2-2, the schedule continues to turn in San Diego’s favor. The Chargers face a dinged-up Oakland team on the road on Sunday, then return home to take on Indianapolis (Oct. 14), and close out the month on the road against hapless Jacksonville (Oct. 20) before the team’s bye week.
All three of those games are winnable. But the Chargers have to keep competing with the same urgency they played with against Dallas, particularly on the defensive end. Through four games, the identity of a Philip Rivers-led offense has been established. The Chargers need to create a similar type of mindset on the defensive side of the ball.
Preseason ranking: 23 | Last Week: 19 | ESPN.com Power Ranking since 2002
The San Diego Chargers move up two spots to No. 17 after an impressive win at home against a talented but inconsistent Dallas Cowboys squad.
Now sitting at 2-2, the schedule continues to turn in San Diego’s favor. The Chargers face a dinged-up Oakland team on the road on Sunday, then return home to take on Indianapolis (Oct. 14), and close out the month on the road against hapless Jacksonville (Oct. 20) before the team’s bye week.
All three of those games are winnable. But the Chargers have to keep competing with the same urgency they played with against Dallas, particularly on the defensive end. Through four games, the identity of a Philip Rivers-led offense has been established. The Chargers need to create a similar type of mindset on the defensive side of the ball.
Eric Karabell gives his biggest surprises of the fantasy football season so far.
Morning Links: More love for Rivers
October, 1, 2013
Oct 1
10:50
AM ET
By
Eric D. Williams | ESPN.com
Good morning. ESPN’s Kevin Seifert highlights the play of San Diego quarterback Philip Rivers in his weekly quarterback report.
Seifert notes that after committing 47 turnovers in the past two seasons, Rivers has just two turnovers in 2013. Says Seifert:
lists San Diego coach Mike McCoy at No. 3 in his top five rankings for new coaches in the NFL this season. Kansas City’s Andy Reid tops the list. Edwards:
Rick Drummond of Pro Football Focus takes a closer look at San Diego’s win over Dallas, highlighting the play of Rivers and Woodhead. Drummond writes that linebacker Donald Butler struggled.
Greg Bedard of Sports Illustrated takes a closer look at Gates’ 56-yard touchdown catch from Rivers as one of the four pivotal plays from over the weekend.
Michael Gehlken of U-T San Diego notes that the Cleveland Browns claimed recently released San Diego running back Fozzy Whittaker off of waivers this week.
Seifert notes that after committing 47 turnovers in the past two seasons, Rivers has just two turnovers in 2013. Says Seifert:
Rivers rebounded and finished strong after the Dallas Cowboys returned an interception for a touchdown in the second quarter, completing 20 of 24 passes for 249 yards and two touchdowns after that point. His deep touchdowns to running back Danny Woodhead (26 yards) and tight end Antonio Gates (56) were perfectly placed. Overall, Rivers completed 35 of 42 passes for 401 yards. His completion percentage of 83.6 was the highest in NFL history for a 400-yard passer. Perhaps most importantly, the interception was his only turnover.ESPN’s Herm Edwards
lists San Diego coach Mike McCoy at No. 3 in his top five rankings for new coaches in the NFL this season. Kansas City’s Andy Reid tops the list. Edwards:
He walked into a team that collapsed last season because of Philip Rivers’ poor play, and he has completely turned Rivers' career around. Now, don't forget, McCoy is a guy who designed a successful offense for Tim Tebow in Denver, followed by Peyton Manning. You don't get two more different QBs from one year to the next. So he has talent in working with QBs. It has shown with Rivers, who has been very effective and efficient (11 TDs, 2 INTs) while still taking deep shots. According to ESPN Stats & Information, Rivers was 9-of-11 for 230 yards and three TDs on passes that traveled more than 10 yards downfield Sunday against the Cowboys. And four receivers caught multiple deep throws for the second time this year. So he's spreading the ball around.ESPN’s Paul Gutierrez points out Raiders quarterback Terrelle Pryor (concussion), running back Darren McFadden (strained hamstring) and fullback <a href="http://espn.go.com/nfl/player/_/id/11717/marcel-reece">Marcel Reece</a> (knee) are all questionable for Sunday’s game against San Diego.
Rick Drummond of Pro Football Focus takes a closer look at San Diego’s win over Dallas, highlighting the play of Rivers and Woodhead. Drummond writes that linebacker Donald Butler struggled.
Greg Bedard of Sports Illustrated takes a closer look at Gates’ 56-yard touchdown catch from Rivers as one of the four pivotal plays from over the weekend.
Michael Gehlken of U-T San Diego notes that the Cleveland Browns claimed recently released San Diego running back Fozzy Whittaker off of waivers this week.
Raiders to have late kickoff Sunday
September, 30, 2013
Sep 30
7:39
PM ET
By
Paul Gutierrez | ESPN.com
ALAMEDA, Calif. -- An Oakland A's baseball playoff game at O.co Coliseum has forced the Oakland Raiders to delay their game against the San Diego Chargers on Sunday to 11:35 p.m. ET, rather than the originally scheduled 4:25 p.m. ET.
The game's television broadcast will also change to NFL Network instead of CBS.
The A's host the Detroit Tigers in Game 2 of their American League Division Series on Saturday night, with a first pitch of 9:07 p.m. ET. Field crews need enough time to convert the playing surface from a baseball diamond to a football field and to get the appropriate stands in place in time to pass safety inspections.
"We'll make it happen," said a Raiders team official.
The first pitch for Game 2 of the A's and Tigers was not announced until late Monday afternoon, and with so much indecision leading up to this week's AFC West divisional game, not only were the Raiders and Chargers put in awkward situations, but also fans were inconvenienced.
With the potential of a night game looming, Raiders coach Dennis Allen said his team would most likely have a late practice later in the week to better acclimate his players for a later kickoff, if needed.
Also, across the San Francisco Bay on Sunday, the 49ers play host to Houston with an 8:30 p.m. ET kickoff at Candlestick Park.
Hardwick ready for Raiders' Week
September, 30, 2013
Sep 30
6:48
PM ET
By
Eric D. Williams | ESPN.com
SAN DIEGO -- Nick Hardwick, a 10-year veteran who has spent his entire career with the San Diego Chargers, said there’s very little explaining to do in the locker room about the team’s next opponent: it’s Raiders week.
“Everybody knows it’s Raiders week,” Hardwick said. “This is a special week here. It gets a little extra special attention, so guys are ready. We’re going to build off this win moving forward, and just go in with a good, aggressive attitude, and a good fighting spirit, and be ready to win again.”
The Chargers travel to Oakland to take on the Raiders for the team’s first AFC West division matchup. Oakland holds a 58-47-2 advantage in the series, which dates back to 1960. However, the Chargers have won the last three games, including the last two in Oakland.
At 2-2 this season, San Diego players know how important it is to get off to a good start within the division.
“It’s going to be huge,” running back Danny Woodhead said. “It’s a divisional game, which those go even further because you have two against each team. They’re very important, and we just got to be ready. We’ve got to take every single day that we have, starting today, to prepare and watch film -- just know what they’re going to do so we’re ready on Sunday.”
With the Oakland Athletics hosting the first round of the American League division series against the Detroit Tigers this weekend, the Chargers will have to deal with the dirt infield at the Oakland Coliseum. But good footing is the least of Hardwick’s concerns.
“It doesn’t matter,” Hardwick said. “You just go out and fight, and that’s all you can do. I mean, who cares if it’s dirt, or gravel or grass. I mean you’re just there to punch the guy in front of you. There’s nothing special about it. If we player harder than them, we play tougher than them, we’re going to win.”
Along with San Diego’s first AFC West division contest, placing more importance on this game is the fact that five of the Chargers' final eight games of season are against division opponents. San Diego wants to get a division game in the win column during the first half of the season.
“The No. 1 goal in a division is you’ve always got to win your division,” San Diego coach Mike McCoy said. “The only way you’re guaranteed to get into the playoffs is to win your division. So anytime you play against a division opponent, there’s that kind of professional hatred that you have for a team. You’re going to play those three teams twice a year, and you’ve got to knock them off.
“So it’s a big opportunity for us. We’ve got to build off of what we’ve done the past, couple weeks and continue to get better. It’s going to be a tough test for us in Oakland.”
“Everybody knows it’s Raiders week,” Hardwick said. “This is a special week here. It gets a little extra special attention, so guys are ready. We’re going to build off this win moving forward, and just go in with a good, aggressive attitude, and a good fighting spirit, and be ready to win again.”
The Chargers travel to Oakland to take on the Raiders for the team’s first AFC West division matchup. Oakland holds a 58-47-2 advantage in the series, which dates back to 1960. However, the Chargers have won the last three games, including the last two in Oakland.
At 2-2 this season, San Diego players know how important it is to get off to a good start within the division.
“It’s going to be huge,” running back Danny Woodhead said. “It’s a divisional game, which those go even further because you have two against each team. They’re very important, and we just got to be ready. We’ve got to take every single day that we have, starting today, to prepare and watch film -- just know what they’re going to do so we’re ready on Sunday.”
With the Oakland Athletics hosting the first round of the American League division series against the Detroit Tigers this weekend, the Chargers will have to deal with the dirt infield at the Oakland Coliseum. But good footing is the least of Hardwick’s concerns.
“It doesn’t matter,” Hardwick said. “You just go out and fight, and that’s all you can do. I mean, who cares if it’s dirt, or gravel or grass. I mean you’re just there to punch the guy in front of you. There’s nothing special about it. If we player harder than them, we play tougher than them, we’re going to win.”
Along with San Diego’s first AFC West division contest, placing more importance on this game is the fact that five of the Chargers' final eight games of season are against division opponents. San Diego wants to get a division game in the win column during the first half of the season.
“The No. 1 goal in a division is you’ve always got to win your division,” San Diego coach Mike McCoy said. “The only way you’re guaranteed to get into the playoffs is to win your division. So anytime you play against a division opponent, there’s that kind of professional hatred that you have for a team. You’re going to play those three teams twice a year, and you’ve got to knock them off.
“So it’s a big opportunity for us. We’ve got to build off of what we’ve done the past, couple weeks and continue to get better. It’s going to be a tough test for us in Oakland.”
McCoy: No decision made yet on Freeney
September, 30, 2013
Sep 30
5:55
PM ET
By
Eric D. Williams | ESPN.com
SAN DIEGO -- Coach Mike McCoy confirmed that San Diego Chargers pass-rusher Dwight Freeney tore a quad muscle during Sunday’s game against the Dallas Cowboys.
“He does have a torn quad, and we’re exploring all of the options,” McCoy said. “We’re getting all of the medical advice, and [exploring] what is in his best interest moving forward.”
He did not rule out the possibility of the team placing Freeney on the injured reserve with a designation to return. Under the injured reserve rules, Freeney will be ineligible for the next eight weeks. He can return to practice six weeks after being placed on the list and be eligible for the Dec. 8 game at home against the New York Giants.
McCoy said that Larry English would be the team’s first option to fill in for Freeney. But he did not rule out going outside the organization to find pass rush help if the players on the roster are not getting the job done.
“Any time you lose a great player like Dwight Freeney it’s a blow to your football team,” McCoy said. “That’s offense, defense or special teams. When you lose one of the great players of all time from your team out with an injury like that during a game, it’s tough. But you give a lot of guys credit for stepping up.”
Along with English, McCoy said rookie sixth round draft choice Tourek Williams played 10 snaps, and did a nice job.
McCoy still does not know the availability of the three starters along the offensive line that missed last week’s game. Left tackle King Dunlap (concussion), left guard Chad Rinehart (toe) and right guard Jeromey Clary (clavicle) did not play against the Cowboys. Rich Ohrnberger injured his groin during the game while playing right guard, and had to give way to Stephen Schilling.
“With the injuries that these guys have, everyone’s different,” McCoy said. “All three of these guys who missed last week, the severity of their injuries are different -- they’re completely different injuries. And we’re going to get out there on Wednesday and see who’s available.”
McCoy did say that he is hopeful to get starting cornerback Shareece Wright back. Wright has missed the last two games with a hamstring issue. San Diego’s other cornerback, Derek Cox, also could miss Sunday’s game at Oakland. Cox left the Dallas game with a knee issue.
“He does have a torn quad, and we’re exploring all of the options,” McCoy said. “We’re getting all of the medical advice, and [exploring] what is in his best interest moving forward.”
He did not rule out the possibility of the team placing Freeney on the injured reserve with a designation to return. Under the injured reserve rules, Freeney will be ineligible for the next eight weeks. He can return to practice six weeks after being placed on the list and be eligible for the Dec. 8 game at home against the New York Giants.
McCoy said that Larry English would be the team’s first option to fill in for Freeney. But he did not rule out going outside the organization to find pass rush help if the players on the roster are not getting the job done.
“Any time you lose a great player like Dwight Freeney it’s a blow to your football team,” McCoy said. “That’s offense, defense or special teams. When you lose one of the great players of all time from your team out with an injury like that during a game, it’s tough. But you give a lot of guys credit for stepping up.”
Along with English, McCoy said rookie sixth round draft choice Tourek Williams played 10 snaps, and did a nice job.
McCoy still does not know the availability of the three starters along the offensive line that missed last week’s game. Left tackle King Dunlap (concussion), left guard Chad Rinehart (toe) and right guard Jeromey Clary (clavicle) did not play against the Cowboys. Rich Ohrnberger injured his groin during the game while playing right guard, and had to give way to Stephen Schilling.
“With the injuries that these guys have, everyone’s different,” McCoy said. “All three of these guys who missed last week, the severity of their injuries are different -- they’re completely different injuries. And we’re going to get out there on Wednesday and see who’s available.”
McCoy did say that he is hopeful to get starting cornerback Shareece Wright back. Wright has missed the last two games with a hamstring issue. San Diego’s other cornerback, Derek Cox, also could miss Sunday’s game at Oakland. Cox left the Dallas game with a knee issue.
WR Keenan Allen flashes vs. Cowboys
September, 30, 2013
Sep 30
1:20
PM ET
By
Eric D. Williams | ESPN.com
SAN DIEGO -- In just his second career start, San Diego Chargers rookie receiver Keenan Allen made the most of his opportunities against the Dallas Cowboys.
Allen finished with five receptions for 80 yards on Sunday. But even more important, Allen earned the trust of veteran quarterback Philip Rivers.
San Diego’s signal caller pointed to an acrobatic, 31-yard reception Allen made on third-and-8 from San Diego’s 37-yard line that provided enough evidence for Rivers that the receiver out of Cal was the real deal.
“I certainly have trust for him, but you have more trust when you make plays on Sundays during games,” Rivers said. “And he was awesome today (Sunday). When he went up and caught that ball on the go route there on third-and-8 ... that does a lot for me.
“It’s kind of like, ‘All right, I'll throw that again now.’ If that doesn’t go for a completion, you say, ‘Okay, I’m going to work it front side.’ But him going and getting that ball and making some of the other plays he did in the game was huge.”
A third-round selection in this year’s draft by San Diego, Allen had been projected as a first- or second-round prospect, but fell down the draft board because of a knee injury suffered during the final portion of his junior year at Cal.
The Chargers eased him into the offense. But with big receiver Malcom Floyd out the past two games with a neck issue, San Diego looked to get the 6-2, 211-pound Allen more involved the past two games.
“I just treat it like practice, even though it’s not practice,” Allen said with a laugh. “But I definitely treat it like practice, try to make everything smooth, and try to keep your confidence up.”
Allen now has eight receptions for 110 yards this season, and is averaging 13.8 yards per reception. San Diego coach Mike McCoy expects Allen to get more chances to make plays like he did on Sunday down the road.
“He’s a young player who’s getting better every week,” McCoy said. “The more reps he gets, the better he’s going to be. It’s a learning curve for him. It’s different. We throw a lot of things at him. And when you play a game like we played today (Sunday) -- up-tempo, no-huddle, doing a lot of things -- you don’t have a lot of time to think. He made the most of every opportunity.”
Allen finished with five receptions for 80 yards on Sunday. But even more important, Allen earned the trust of veteran quarterback Philip Rivers.
San Diego’s signal caller pointed to an acrobatic, 31-yard reception Allen made on third-and-8 from San Diego’s 37-yard line that provided enough evidence for Rivers that the receiver out of Cal was the real deal.
“I certainly have trust for him, but you have more trust when you make plays on Sundays during games,” Rivers said. “And he was awesome today (Sunday). When he went up and caught that ball on the go route there on third-and-8 ... that does a lot for me.
“It’s kind of like, ‘All right, I'll throw that again now.’ If that doesn’t go for a completion, you say, ‘Okay, I’m going to work it front side.’ But him going and getting that ball and making some of the other plays he did in the game was huge.”
A third-round selection in this year’s draft by San Diego, Allen had been projected as a first- or second-round prospect, but fell down the draft board because of a knee injury suffered during the final portion of his junior year at Cal.
The Chargers eased him into the offense. But with big receiver Malcom Floyd out the past two games with a neck issue, San Diego looked to get the 6-2, 211-pound Allen more involved the past two games.
“I just treat it like practice, even though it’s not practice,” Allen said with a laugh. “But I definitely treat it like practice, try to make everything smooth, and try to keep your confidence up.”
Allen now has eight receptions for 110 yards this season, and is averaging 13.8 yards per reception. San Diego coach Mike McCoy expects Allen to get more chances to make plays like he did on Sunday down the road.
“He’s a young player who’s getting better every week,” McCoy said. “The more reps he gets, the better he’s going to be. It’s a learning curve for him. It’s different. We throw a lot of things at him. And when you play a game like we played today (Sunday) -- up-tempo, no-huddle, doing a lot of things -- you don’t have a lot of time to think. He made the most of every opportunity.”
Eric Karabell joins Prim Siripipat to discuss the changing value for some running backs, including Ray Rice.
Upon Further Review: Chargers Week 4
September, 30, 2013
Sep 30
12:00
PM ET
By
Eric D. Williams | ESPN.com
SAN DIEGO -- A review of four hot issues from the San Diego Chargers’ 30-21 win over the Dallas Cowboys:
Weddle shuts down Witten: San Diego safety Eric Weddle twice broke up throws in the middle of the field to tight end Jason Witten on critical third-down plays for the Cowboys. The Chargers held Witten to just five catches for 43 yards. Witten was targeted 10 times. At 5-foot-11 and 200 pounds, Weddle was dwarfed by the 6-6, 261-pound Witten. However, Weddle, a three-time All-Pro, reminded observers of something else after the game: He can still play. “I’m pretty good myself,” Weddle said, smiling. “Some people forget about that. But he’s one of the best guys in the league. For myself, I knew coming into this game that if I played well, and if I could nullify him in third-down situations, and any time I was matched up with him, then [we] would have a good chance to win.”
Rivers creating chunk plays: Philip Rivers finished with five pass completions of over 20 yards. According to ESPN Stats & Information, Rivers had plenty of success pushing the ball down the field, completing 9 of 11 passes for 230 yards and three touchdowns on throws traveling more than 10 yards downfield. Heading into Sunday’s contest, Rivers had completed 62 percent of such passes, second best among qualified quarterbacks. Per Stats & Info, much of Rivers’ success came after he threw an interception for a touchdown to Dallas linebacker Sean Lee in the second quarter. After that play, Rivers completed 20 of 24 passes for 249 yards and two touchdowns, leading the Chargers to 20 unanswered points and the victory.
Pass rush help needed: With the recent news that pass-rusher Dwight Freeney may have suffered a torn quad that likely will put him out for an extended period of time, San Diego could be scouring the market for pass rush help this week. Freeney, 33, signed a two-year, $8.75 deal with the Chargers in May, including $4.75 million in guaranteed money. Freeney has just a half a sack on the year. The seven-time Pro Bowler was injured in the second quarter against Dallas and did not return. Larry English picked up the slack with Freeney out, and the Chargers still managed to get pressure on Romo for the remainder of the game. However, San Diego will need to find a long-term replacement for Freeney if he has to be placed on injured reserve. Jarret Johnson has been the team’s most effective pass-rusher, with two sacks and 14 tackles on the year.
Woodhead provides a spark: Since the Chargers lost Darren Sproles to New Orleans in free agency in 2011, the team has been searching for a running back with a similar skill set. And San Diego appears to have found one in Danny Woodhead. Against the Cowboys, he enjoyed his first two-touchdown-reception game. Woodhead is second on the team in receptions with 22 for 162 yards. He’s gained another 90 yards on the ground. Specifically, Woodhead has been effective in the red zone, making defenses pay for trying to double cover tight end Antonio Gates inside. And he’s been a nice change-of-pace back to the bruising running style of Ryan Mathews.
[+] Enlarge
Christopher Hanewinckel/USA TODAY SportsChargers safety Eric Weddle, a seven-year veteran, had a stellar game against Jason Witten and the Cowboys on Sunday.
Rivers creating chunk plays: Philip Rivers finished with five pass completions of over 20 yards. According to ESPN Stats & Information, Rivers had plenty of success pushing the ball down the field, completing 9 of 11 passes for 230 yards and three touchdowns on throws traveling more than 10 yards downfield. Heading into Sunday’s contest, Rivers had completed 62 percent of such passes, second best among qualified quarterbacks. Per Stats & Info, much of Rivers’ success came after he threw an interception for a touchdown to Dallas linebacker Sean Lee in the second quarter. After that play, Rivers completed 20 of 24 passes for 249 yards and two touchdowns, leading the Chargers to 20 unanswered points and the victory.
Pass rush help needed: With the recent news that pass-rusher Dwight Freeney may have suffered a torn quad that likely will put him out for an extended period of time, San Diego could be scouring the market for pass rush help this week. Freeney, 33, signed a two-year, $8.75 deal with the Chargers in May, including $4.75 million in guaranteed money. Freeney has just a half a sack on the year. The seven-time Pro Bowler was injured in the second quarter against Dallas and did not return. Larry English picked up the slack with Freeney out, and the Chargers still managed to get pressure on Romo for the remainder of the game. However, San Diego will need to find a long-term replacement for Freeney if he has to be placed on injured reserve. Jarret Johnson has been the team’s most effective pass-rusher, with two sacks and 14 tackles on the year.
Woodhead provides a spark: Since the Chargers lost Darren Sproles to New Orleans in free agency in 2011, the team has been searching for a running back with a similar skill set. And San Diego appears to have found one in Danny Woodhead. Against the Cowboys, he enjoyed his first two-touchdown-reception game. Woodhead is second on the team in receptions with 22 for 162 yards. He’s gained another 90 yards on the ground. Specifically, Woodhead has been effective in the red zone, making defenses pay for trying to double cover tight end Antonio Gates inside. And he’s been a nice change-of-pace back to the bruising running style of Ryan Mathews.
Morning Links: Freeney has torn quad
September, 30, 2013
Sep 30
11:10
AM ET
By
Eric D. Williams | ESPN.com
Good morning. The news reportedly is not good for San Diego pass-rusher Dwight Freeney. ESPN’s Adam Schefter confirmed an earlier report by Ian Rapoport of NFL Network that Freeney has a torn quad that could end his season.
Freeney, 33, suffered the injury during the second quarter of San Diego’s 31-20 win over the Cowboys. Freeney signed a two-year, $8.75 million contract with San Diego in May, including $4.75 million in guaranteed money. San Diego needed depth after pass-rusher Melvin Ingram suffered an anterior cruciate ligament tear in his left knee during offseason workouts. Freeney had just a half a sack through four games, but had created consistent pressure off of the edge for the Chargers.
Larry English, San Diego’s first-round draft choice in 2009, would be the next man up to replace Freeney if he’s out for an extended period of time. Rookie Tourek Williams, a sixth-round selection in this year’s draft, also is an option.
However, the Chargers also could look to bring in some help either through free agency or trade.
ESPN’s Tim MacMahon writes that the Cowboys’ pass rush was quiet against San Diego’s patchwork offensive line. “It really doesn’t matter what the rush is doing if he’s getting rid of the ball in two seconds,” Dallas pass-rusher DeMarcus Ware said. “But when he does hold the ball, we weren’t effective enough as a rush team getting pressure on him.”
ESPN’s Paul Gutierrez writes that the Raiders could be without Darren McFadden when San Diego travels to Oakland on Sunday. McFadden suffered a hamstring injury in the first half of the team’s 24-14 loss to Washington. Rashad Jennings is McFadden’s backup.
Kevin Acee of U-T San Diego writes that Philip Rivers has got his pocket presence back. Acee: “Remember, Rivers was playing behind three new starters on the offensive line Sunday. And that merry-go-round in front of him is the thing we pinned as the biggest factor in Rivers’ subpar 2011 and ’12, wherein his passer rating plummeted from 15 points from his league-leading rating over the previous three seasons.”
Ricky Henne, writing for the San Diego Chargers' website, says the team’s defense came up big on third down.
Freeney, 33, suffered the injury during the second quarter of San Diego’s 31-20 win over the Cowboys. Freeney signed a two-year, $8.75 million contract with San Diego in May, including $4.75 million in guaranteed money. San Diego needed depth after pass-rusher Melvin Ingram suffered an anterior cruciate ligament tear in his left knee during offseason workouts. Freeney had just a half a sack through four games, but had created consistent pressure off of the edge for the Chargers.
Larry English, San Diego’s first-round draft choice in 2009, would be the next man up to replace Freeney if he’s out for an extended period of time. Rookie Tourek Williams, a sixth-round selection in this year’s draft, also is an option.
However, the Chargers also could look to bring in some help either through free agency or trade.
ESPN’s Tim MacMahon writes that the Cowboys’ pass rush was quiet against San Diego’s patchwork offensive line. “It really doesn’t matter what the rush is doing if he’s getting rid of the ball in two seconds,” Dallas pass-rusher DeMarcus Ware said. “But when he does hold the ball, we weren’t effective enough as a rush team getting pressure on him.”
ESPN’s Paul Gutierrez writes that the Raiders could be without Darren McFadden when San Diego travels to Oakland on Sunday. McFadden suffered a hamstring injury in the first half of the team’s 24-14 loss to Washington. Rashad Jennings is McFadden’s backup.
Kevin Acee of U-T San Diego writes that Philip Rivers has got his pocket presence back. Acee: “Remember, Rivers was playing behind three new starters on the offensive line Sunday. And that merry-go-round in front of him is the thing we pinned as the biggest factor in Rivers’ subpar 2011 and ’12, wherein his passer rating plummeted from 15 points from his league-leading rating over the previous three seasons.”
Ricky Henne, writing for the San Diego Chargers' website, says the team’s defense came up big on third down.
SAN DIEGO -- Chargers outside linebacker Dwight Freeney has a torn quadriceps muscle that could sideline him for several weeks or even the rest of the season.
A source had earlier told ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter that Freeney's quadriceps tendon was torn, but another source later confirmed a comment by general manager Tom Telesco that the injury was to Freeney's quadriceps muscle.
Coach Mike McCoy and Telesco both said Monday that the team doesn't know the severity of the injury or the time frame for recovery for the 33-year-old pass rusher.
Freeney was hurt in the second quarter of San Diego's 30-21 victory against Dallas on Sunday. After being tended to for several minutes, he walked off the field without help.
McCoy said the team and Freeney are exploring their options. Freeney could be placed on injured reserve designated, which would allow him to return later in the season.
"He's talking to some people, we're talking to people and just really kind of figuring out what is the best way to go," McCoy said. "That is a possibility. We'll just wait and see in the next couple of days, the severity of it exactly, what our plan is going forward."
If Freeney was placed on injured reserve designated, he'd be eligible to return to practice in six weeks. He'd be eligible to return to the active list after eight weeks.
If the injury is more significant, he could be lost for the season.
After starring for Indianapolis for 11 seasons, Freeney was released in the offseason after his production dropped for the third straight season.
UPCOMING GAMES
| W-L | PF | PA | HM | AW | STK | L10 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SDG | 2-2 | 27.0 | 25.5 | 1-1 | 1-1 | W1 | |
| OAK | 1-3 | 17.8 | 22.8 | 1-1 | 0-2 | L2 |
| W-L | PF | PA | HM | AW | STK | L10 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IND | 3-1 | 26.3 | 12.8 | 1-1 | 2-0 | W2 | |
| SDG | 2-2 | 27.0 | 25.5 | 1-1 | 1-1 | W1 |
| W-L | PF | PA | HM | AW | STK | L10 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SDG | 2-2 | 27.0 | 25.5 | 1-1 | 1-1 | W1 | |
| JAC | 0-4 | 7.8 | 32.3 | 0-2 | 0-2 | L4 |
LATEST ON THE SAN DIEGO CHARGERS
- berniewilson Bernie Wilson
#Chargers place OLB Dwight Freeney, WR Malcom Floyd on injured reserve, sign WR Lavelle Hawkins, add OLB Thomas Keiser from practice squad.
about an hour ago
- berniewilson Bernie Wilson
- chargers San Diego Chargers
Dwight Freeney, Malcom Floyd placed on injured reserve http://t.co/aRZC8kUsNb
about an hour ago
- chargers San Diego Chargers
- sdutChargers S.D. U-T Chargers
Few believe in Philip Rivers & Eric Weddle more than I do. Also really like coaching staff. Just don't know if this team can keep overcoming
about an hour ago
- sdutChargers S.D. U-T Chargers
- chargers San Diego Chargers
The Chargers donated 1,000 pairs of shoes to deserving children for the 25th straight year Tuesday. http://t.co/hP7Vlf1n0G
about an hour ago
- chargers San Diego Chargers
- sdutChargers S.D. U-T Chargers
RT @UTgehlken: Chargers wide receiver Malcom Floyd (neck) is out for the season, per agent Buddy Baker.
about an hour ago
- sdutChargers S.D. U-T Chargers
- chargers San Diego Chargers
Which Chargers unit stepped up the most against the Cowboys? Reply w/ #OLine, #RBs, #LBs or #Secondary http://t.co/aXVKuMpIxA
about 2 hours ago
- chargers San Diego Chargers
- sdutChargers S.D. U-T Chargers
Not like this happens all the time. But here's another reason watching NFL games from couch might be best choice: http://t.co/JVfuOOWm5h
about 2 hours ago
- sdutChargers S.D. U-T Chargers
- chargers San Diego Chargers
ICYM: The Chargers-Raiders game will air on @NFLNetwork nationally and @CBS8 in San Diego. Kickoff set for 8:35p PDT. http://t.co/7qnQoL6VQi
about 3 hours ago
- chargers San Diego Chargers
- chargers San Diego Chargers
THIS JUST IN: Sunday's Chargers-Raiders game to air locally in San Diego on CBS Channel 8.
about 3 hours ago
- chargers San Diego Chargers
- sdutChargers S.D. U-T Chargers
As silly as 8:35 pm PT start is, we're just getting a taste of what East Coast fans have to do to watch their teams every Sunday & Monday.
about 3 hours ago
- sdutChargers S.D. U-T Chargers
- sdutChargers S.D. U-T Chargers
RT @UTgehlken: Chargers to sign WR Lavelle Hawkins ... http://t.co/EBe2nrE8fj >Looked at lots of guys past 2 weeks. Need depth, protection.
about 4 hours ago
- sdutChargers S.D. U-T Chargers
- chargers San Diego Chargers
RT @InsideNFLMedia: NFL Replay, Game of Week: @DallasCowboys-@Chargers. Wednesday at 9:00 PM ET
about 6 hours ago
- chargers San Diego Chargers
- chargers San Diego Chargers
Funds for shoes provided by Dean Spanos; Players volunteer on league-mandated day off to distribute http://t.co/uKJF9ybbIf via @JMichy
about 6 hours ago
- chargers San Diego Chargers
- chargers San Diego Chargers
Chargers to give 1,000 pairs of shoes to deserving children today. #CommunityTuesdays http://t.co/eaCX5jQ5WZ
about 6 hours ago
- chargers San Diego Chargers
- chargers San Diego Chargers
QB Philip Rivers is nominated for the FedEx Air Player of the Week. #airandgroundVOTE: http://t.co/bJtGWOEC9K http://t.co/aqKveW01Mi
about 7 hours ago
- chargers San Diego Chargers
- chargers San Diego Chargers
RT @JASanDiego: Vote for @chargers Philip Rivers to help your local JA win $2,000! http://t.co/sq7MbS578H via @nfl
about 7 hours ago
- chargers San Diego Chargers
- chargers San Diego Chargers
Vote the best @joshlewinstuff and @hank_bauer call of the game in the win over the 'Boys http://t.co/m1NOAnuzmP
about 7 hours ago
- chargers San Diego Chargers
- sdutChargers S.D. U-T Chargers
Places SD-OAK is on at decent hour: Honolulu (5:35 pm); Jakarta (10:35 am, Mon.); Tokyo (12:35 pm, Mon); Adelaide, Australia (1:05 pm, Mon).
about 8 hours ago
- sdutChargers S.D. U-T Chargers
- chargers San Diego Chargers
ICYM: Mike McCoy's postgame locker room speech. http://t.co/Uje7Q3cXCX
about 19 hours ago
- chargers San Diego Chargers
- berniewilson Bernie Wilson
RT @RWFreeman: In honor of the moment ... http://t.co/ZO9j14Jmoc
about 20 hours ago
- berniewilson Bernie Wilson
