ESPN

Bill Williamson

  (2:00 PM)

Hi everyone, let's get rolling.

JayBaller1019 (Minnesota)

who do you think will win the AFC title??

Bill Williamson

  (2:01 PM)

My pick, it could change next week, is New England. The Patriots are only going to get better.

AR (MN)

Among Joe Flacco, Matt Ryan, Matthew Stafford, and Mark Sanchez, which one do you believe has the most upside, and which one do you think will be the first to hoist the Lombardi Trophy?

Bill Williamson

  (2:03 PM)

I think Matt Ryan is the real deal, like hall of fame real deal if he can stay on track. As far as winning the Super Bowl first, it has to be Ryan or Flacco

Bill Williamson

  (2:03 PM)

I think Matt Ryan is the real deal, like hall of fame real deal if he can stay on track. As far as winning the Super Bowl first, it has to be Ryan or Flacco

Dave (San Diego)

Who poses the greater matchup problems the next two weeks for the Chargers, the Giants or the Eagles?

Bill Williamson

  (2:04 PM)

I think it's the Giants because it's a road game. The last time the Eagles played on the West Coast, things didn't go so well.

Greg (Denver, CO)

Do you see J. Russell as the QB of the Raiders next year if the next 8 weeks produce more of the same?

Bill Williamson

  (2:05 PM)

If it's more of the same, I can't see how the Raiders could justify keeping Russell.

Craig G. (Fairfield, California)

Hey Bill, is Justin Fargas the Raiders #1 back?

Bill Williamson

  (2:07 PM)

McFadden is, but he's missed the past four games with a knee injury. He shoudl; be back after the bye when Oakland hosts Kansas City.

Bill Williamson

  (2:07 PM)

McFadden is, but he's missed the past four games with a knee injury. He shoudl; be back after the bye when Oakland hosts Kansas City.

Ryan (San Diego)

Ok Bill, this is the AFC West chat, you've opened up with two non AFC West questions. All these questions belong in other football chats. Thanks

Bill Williamson

  (2:08 PM)

They were the first two in. If you want me to answer AFC West questions, ask some, brother.

Carlos (Niceville, FL)

What's up with Eddie Royal's lack of production?

Bill Williamson

  (2:09 PM)

He had the big game with 10 catches, but it's been weird. He needs to get the ball.

Vijay (NYC)

How worried are the Broncos about the fumbling problems that Moreno and Buckhalter have had? The fumble against Baltimore set a bad tone for the game.

Bill Williamson

  (2:10 PM)

It has to be a concern. Moreno really needs to get a better grip on the ball.

BKH (NC)

umm...San Diego goes to NY

Bill Williamson

  (2:11 PM)

Yes, that was the point of my answer.

Bill Williamson

  (2:11 PM)

Yes, that was the point of my answer.

Carlos (Niceville, FL)

Bill, do you think Mike Nolan, if he keeps up the good job, gets offered a head coaching job?

Bill Williamson

  (2:14 PM)

Yes, I think so. He's doing a great job. There could be several job openings this season. I could see Nolan being marketable.

Rob (Houston)

How do my Chargers play against the Giants this Sunday? Norv mediocrity and lose, or up to their potential and beat the Giants?

Bill Williamson

  (2:14 PM)

I have a feeling you may be happy Sunday afternoon, Rob.

Patrick (Cheyenne, WY)

Was the Denver loss to Baltimore just a bump in the road, or an exposure of some deeper problems?

Bill Williamson

  (2:15 PM)

I think we can better answer that question in a couple of weeks.

BK (LA)

Is Merriman really back, 2 sacks against Russell don't seem to mean much these days. Why has Rivera struggled as a D-Coord in SD?

Bill Williamson

  (2:16 PM)

The Chargers have been really happy with Merriman the past few weeks. I think he is close. He is working very hard at it. This guy really tries.

SprungOnSports (Long Island)

Roethlisberger has been excellent in the passing game this season, do the Steelers keep it going even against Bailey and Nolan's 3-4?

Bill Williamson

  (2:17 PM)

I expect the Steelers to continue to play the game they way they like to in Denver, at least to start the game.

Trevor (Portland, OR)

What are your thoughts on the Stop LJ petition?

Bill Williamson

  (2:18 PM)

I'm not surprised by it. I'm not sure if it will work, but I know many Chiefs' fans are fed up with Johnson.

Tom (Kansas City)

I know the Broncos are 6-1, but this game Monday night seems to carry some extra weight. Are the Broncos in danger if they don't win?

Bill Williamson

  (2:19 PM)

Well, Tom, if Denver loses and San Diego wins, the Chargers are only one game out. So, yes, it's kind of big.

Craig G. (Fairfield, California)

Because of the economy, current state of their stadiums and great fan rivialry, do you think a NIners-Raiders joint stadium would be a good idea?

Bill Williamson

  (2:21 PM)

If it keeps both teams in the Bay Area, yes. I know some fans wouldn't love it, but it's better than the alternative.

Tom (Denver)

I think the Broncos attack, attack, attack on Monday night. I see them coming after Big Ben early and often and on offense they've got to open up things for the running game, so maybe some deep throws early. What do you think Bill?

Bill Williamson

  (2:23 PM)

I don't think that would be a horrible idea. I think you'r right, they shoudl attack.

Brett (LA)

I wouldnt be so sure about Nolan getting a gig next season. With the likes of Cowher, Holmgren, Shanahan (maybe fisher) all looking for work, the demand for a good D-coordinator that failed once as a head coach might not be that high

Bill Williamson

  (2:24 PM)

And don't forget Gruden and Billick. But if there are 8-10 jobs that open, Nolan could be in the mix.

James (San Diego)

why doesn't AJ smith take more critism for how the team has underperformed over the past couple of years? He let go of drew brees for Rivers (who at the time needed a couple of years) he let go of Michael Turner the year before LT declines (everyone knows the stats of RB's once they get close to 30)

Bill Williamson

  (2:26 PM)

Brees is clearly great, but Rivers is no slouch. He's perfect for this team. But the Turner arguement, though, could be made. He'd look pretty good in San Dieog these days.

Trevor (Portland, OR)

With Larry Johnson suspended for this Sunday's game, do you expect him to start against Oakland the following week?

Bill Williamson

  (2:26 PM)

I think that all depends on what Jamaal Charles and Kolby Smith (if he is active) do at Jacksonville on Sunday.

Adam (San Diego)

Is it safe to say that Hardwick's health is as important to the Charger's running game as LT's is? And do you think he's back this weekend or will Norv hold him out another week?

Bill Williamson

  (2:28 PM)

Norv was hinting Wednesday that Hardwick may be a week away. He will be a great help when he returns.

Scooter (Denver)

Why do Raider fans hammer you relentlessly over DHB? He has been terrible.

Bill Williamson

  (2:33 PM)

Haven't noticed. I'm not the one with five catches in eight starts.

Denton (Hays, KS)

Do you think the Broncos offense will continue to stay conservative or do you think Monday night there will be a few more attempts at some big plays?

Bill Williamson

  (2:34 PM)

It better not be or the Brocnos will not beat Pittsburgh.

Daniel Williams (Chula Vista, CA)

Will any of the big name coaches be heading to the AFC West next year San Diego or Oakland?

Bill Williamson

  (2:35 PM)

I don't see a big-name coach going to Oakland. If the Chargers stumble, I wouldn't be surprised if a name like Shanahan surfaces there.

John (New York)

Who is more desperate for a win, NY at home to avoid losing 4 in a row, or SD on the road trying to keep pace with Denver? And for your two cents, does desperation really play a role in these types of games?

Bill Williamson

  (2:36 PM)

I think both teams really, really need to win for the reasons you explained, John.

Ryan (San Diego)

The Bolts are 0-3 against possible playoff teams this year, and since 2006, have only beaten two, and that took a missed 25 yard FG against Indy and overtime against Tenn. That is 2-12. Against non-playoff teams, we are 17-4. Doesn't this just say we are mediocre at best under Norv?

Bill Williamson

  (2:37 PM)

It's interesting, for sure. San Diego better find a way to beat the better teams, because its schedule is not easy in the next few weeks.

Jo (Albequerque)

I'm excited about KC. They hired a good GM, hired a young coach, got a good young QB ... they are doing it right, unlike most of the league's other bad teams.

Bill Williamson

  (2:38 PM)

I think Kansas City is on the right track. But there is a long way to go. The offensive line and defnse needs a lot of work.

Wayne (Topeka)

Do you see the Chiefs deactivating LJ when his suspension is over? That new sign in the locker seems to be directed at him.

Bill Williamson

  (2:39 PM)

I wouldn't be suprised. I just have a feeling this story isn't over.

Tom (Kansas City)

If the Titans fire Fisher they are total morons. He's done more with less than any of the big name coaching free agents (i.e. Shanahan, Holmgren, Cowher, Gruden). He deserves a pass for this season.

Bill Williamson

  (2:41 PM)

I'd be surprised if Fisher is anywhere but Nashville next season. He's a special coach.

Keith (Springfield, MO)

Do you know the details of Ryan Harris' injury? Seems to me that his absence at RT will largely determine how effective the running game is. Is Polumbus a good backup?

Bill Williamson

  (2:42 PM)

The Broncos don't say much about injuries. But he has a toe injury that could keep him out for a few weeks. Yes, it's a big loss. He's an outstanding player.

Schon (East Bay, CA)

Bill, First of all let me say that I truly enjoy the coverage that you give the AFC West. Now, we heard it all off season after the Raiders gave Asomugha a huge contract, however with the team not doing well and most of the games unavailable I haven't been able to see how he is doing. Is he still playing at an elite level this season, despite the Raiders struggles?

Bill Williamson

  (2:43 PM)

Thaanks, Schon, yes, Nnamdi is still playing at a high level. He's at the top of his game.

Shawn (Toronto)

Do you think the Chiefs see Branden Albert as their left tackle going forward or do you see them moving him to the right side or guard after this season?

Bill Williamson

  (2:44 PM)

He is flexible, so he can move around if they find another left tackle. I could see him being a right tackle.

jason (MD)

any word out of Raiders on hiring a future football operations guy?

Bill Williamson

  (2:45 PM)

Al Davis talked about it more than a year ago, but nothing has happened.

Saul Garcia (San Diego)

How big of an impact do you think Malcom Floyd will have now that he's starting opposite of Jackson? Maybe I have high expectations, but I think 4-5 catches for 60+ yards at the very least is what's needed. We need more production out of our WR's than just Jackson and Gates.

Bill Williamson

  (2:46 PM)

I think your expectations are fair and right on, Saul.

Will (Madison, WI)

Hey Bill, any chance the Chiefs ship Cassel at the end of this year?

Bill Williamson

  (2:46 PM)

I don't see that happening, Will. The Chiefs want Cassel for the long haul.

Brent (Quincy, Il)

With the Chiefs getting Chambers, do you see it helping Bowe in any way?

Bill Williamson

  (2:50 PM)

It should help. Chambers i sa pro, even though his skills have slipped some. But a Bowe-Chambers combination should help Cassel.

Brian (Las Vegas)

Bill, Can you give me both 1 Offensive and Defensive player from the Chargers to keep on eye on during the NYG game Sunday?

Bill Williamson

  (2:52 PM)

Rivers: The Manning matchup is juicy.Merriman: Let's see if he can build upon his great performance against the Raiders.

Stan (NZ)

Do you think shanahan would go to San Diego to spite Pat Bowlen

Bill Williamson

  (2:53 PM)

That and a star QB.

Jake (Grand Junction)

Can Denver beat Indy Twice at Indy

Bill Williamson

  (2:53 PM)

It'd be really tough. That's why Denver needs to take care of business there in December.

David (Aurora, CO)

Do you think Orton hasn't thrown the deep ball much yet this season because he doesn't have the ability or because McDaniels coaches him not to?

Bill Williamson

  (2:55 PM)

A combo of both.

Matt (LA)

With the Broncos improving and the Chargers looking pretty good do you see the AFC west once again becoming one of the powerhouse divisions in the nfl

Bill Williamson

  (2:56 PM)

Let's not get ahead of ourselves, but it is improved from last season. It should improve in each of the next few years.

Andrew Hernandez (San Diego, Ca)

If Merriman has a big end of the year. Who do the Chargers FRANCHISE Jackson, Sproles, Merriman?

Bill Williamson

  (2:57 PM)

I'm thinking Jackson. He is becoming a special player.

Ncik (Nor Cal)

Thanks for your work on the AFC West Bill. Do you think Rivers will outperform Eli sunday? I for one am so thankful to have Rivers instead of Eli

Bill Williamson

  (3:00 PM)

I expect a big game from Rivers on Sunday. He is playing great.

Bill Williamson

  (3:02 PM)

Great hour, thanks everyone. Enjoy Week 9.