The San Diego Chargers came out fast in their home opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars. If there was any doubt of their being a hangover after last week’s collapse, the Chargers laid it to rest early. They jumped out to a 21-0 lead against a talented Jags team, which most believe should be improved. The difference between this week and last week’s 21-point lead is the Chargers finished in every aspect. They finished in the red zone on offense three of their five times. They converted on seven of their thirteen third downs. They finished on defense as Jacksonville’s offense crossed midfield only six times and committed three turnovers. They would go on to beat the Jags 38-14.
Offensively, the Chargers answered the bell with Keenan Allen and Danny Woodhead sidelined. Melvin Gordon and Travis Benjamin stepped up big in their absence as both scored touchdowns. Gordon rushed for 102 yards on 24 carries to help San Diego control the pace of the game. He was decisive as he hit the hole and his footwork was so smooth a tap dancing enthusiast might have been moved. Gordon credits his progression to the rigorous training he did this past offseason with superstar Adrian Peterson. Benjamin and Tyrell Williams seem to be the featured receivers in this offense as they combined for three touchdowns. Philip Rivers was Philip Rivers as he kept the Jags defense off balanced by spreading it around to six different targets. Rivers threw four touchdowns including his 78th to Antonio Gates. He looks more comfortable in Ken Whisenhunt’s offense as opposed to the last two years where he was asked to throw more. This balanced attack could help the Chargers make a run in the AFC West as it has worked for the first two games.
Defensively, Melvin Ingram and Casey Hayward played out of their minds. Ingram had two sacks and a forced fumble that was recovered by Corey Liuget. Hayward is looking like a free agent steal as he helps create a formidable cornerback trio featuring rising star Jason Verrett and savvy veteran Brandon Flowers. The defense held TJ Yeldon in check in the run game and Blake Bortles struggled with his accuracy. This is a Jags offense that features explosive players like Allen Robinson, Allen Hurns, and Julius Thomas. Credit John Pagano as his group is flying around this season as they await third overall pick Joey Bosa.
With the win, the Chargers have won six in a row against the Jaguars dating back to 2007. They have to travel to Indianapolis to play a desperate Colts team looking to get their first win.
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