Los Angeles Chargers Preview 2021
In developing our Los Angeles Chargers preview 2021, we found that this team looks competitive, partly because it has a fairly kind schedule. Plus, it possesses a young QB who’s got juice. In the last five years, the Los Angeles Chargers have made the playoffs once as a wildcard. Last season, they were 7-9 overall and 3-3 in the division, finishing third and out of the money. Conversely, this season, their win/loss record could end up showing solid improvement.
Chargers Offense
Last season QB Justin Herbert (4,336 YDs, 31 TDs, 10 INTs) put up amazing numbers despite dealing with a permeable O-line. All-Pro center Corey Linsley joins the front, as do other quality vets. Additionally, the receiving unit is sound, as TE Jared Cook (New Orleans) joins the group, which includes Keenan Allen (100 REC, 992 YDs, 9.8 AVG, 8 TDs) and Mike Williams (48 REC, 756 YDs, 15.8 AVG, 5 TDs). The rush attack was ranked 18th last season. However, if dual-threat RB Austin Ekeler and second man in Justin Jackson can stay healthy, this unit could be potent.
Los Angeles Chargers Preview – Defense
Our Los Angeles Chargers preview 2021 notes that while this team averaged 24.0 PPG (T-18th) on offense, they allowed 26.6 PPG (23rd). Consequently, they lost more games than they won. Joey Bosa, who posted 7.5 sacks, 27 QBH, and 15 TFL, can play in front or OLB. The D-line is sound, while both the linebacking unit and secondary are a tad more worrisome. Rookie LB Kenneth Murray Jr. recorded 107 tackles. Also, Kyzir White was good for 77 bringdowns. Kyler Frackrell (NY Giants) had four sacks in 2020. In the backfield, corner Michael Davis (3 INTs, 14 PBU) is joined by another sound corner, Asante Samuel Jr. If healthy, safety Derwin James could be a difference maker.
Los Angeles Special Teams
Notably, placekicking distance and accuracy were an issue, as Michael Bagely struggled from beyond the 40. Punter Ty Long offered distance. However, he had three punts blocked. Finally, Joe Reed takes kickoffs and K.J. Hill punts. In summary, this is an uneven group.
Los Angeles Chargers Preview 2021 – Final Word
Brandon Staley is an NFL head coach who has never been a head coach at any level. Thus, this is his first year as the Chargers, an NFL, or any team’s helmsman. As a matter of note, he was an NFL linebackers coach for three years before becoming the Rams’ defensive coordinator in 2020. Now, after just one year, he’s former head coach Anthony Lynn’s replacement. Our Los Angeles Chargers preview 2021 asks “How do you spell learning curve?” Still, Staley knows both sides of the ball, and he’s gathered a fine group of coordinators and assistants. Thus, we expect to see growth and progress from this coach and team in 2021. Might the Chargers be one-of-three AFC wildcards?
AFC West Summary - Los Angeles Chargers 2021:
Second Place – Record 10-7
Wildcard