Bolt Fans. I know some of you have been clamoring for more Bolt information…the lack of a weekly ANALYSIS has been hard for you. I understand and sympathize...and that is why I have put out this rare pre-season edition for you. I normally try to stay out of the preseason ANALYSIS game. So much is still in flux…so many players are rested and kept out…so much of the news is dripping with unfounded optimism. But, I feel it is time to provide a sense of what we should expect this coming season.
Three preseason games and a bunch of practices are in the books. When last we spoke, I provide you with a list of the Chargers’ free agency acquisitions and losses as well as a couple of “pendings”. The pendings at that time included Malcom Floyd and Stephen Cooper. It seemed clear that both would leave for greener pastures…but a funny thing happened. Malcom did not get the offers he expected and Cooper did not get any offers at all. Both players re-signed….Cooper for the League minimum. This is a good thing. Floyd is a good receiver who makes plays. Period. He is not an all star, but he has a good rapport with Rivers and it is good to have him back. Cooper is a good guy to bring back…he knows the defense…and he adds depth and leadership to our young linebacker corps. Unfortunately, Cooper tore a biceps muscle in his first preseason game. He is going to try to give it a go…but a linebacker with a ripped arm muscle is not a good deal. The Chargers must cut down from 80 players to 53 by the end of this coming weekend. I’ve got to believe Cooper won’t last through that cut.
So, what have we learned through the last month or so. First off, there has been a lot of optimism…and that can only be a good thing. Unlike last year, where the holdouts of VJ and McNeil were front page news and the negativity was palpable…this year it has been filled with good vibes. “We like our team”, “we like him”, “we like them”, “we like each other”…seem to be the most popular quotes from Norv and AJ. Second, there has been no drama with draft picks not signing. A good thing. Third, there have been no off-field antics (yet). Any moment the other shoe could drop on that one…with some jackass driving drunk again. But so far…..so good.
So how have we played? Well, again, never want to get too high or too low in preseason. A close loss to the Seahawks has been followed by a win in Dallas and a last second win against Arizona. In a nutshell, my assessment is that our offense looks good and our defense needs work. In terms of the offense, it was great to see Gates, Jackson, and Floyd on the field together last game. First time in quite awhile. If they can all stay healthy…our team will score points. Add to this mix some impressive plays by young guys Richard Goodman and Bryan Walters and we have a good competition going at receiver. Keep in mind Patrick Crayton has not even played and we are just now seeing rookie Vincent Brown. Randy McMichael has looked outstanding as a back-up tight end so we are solid here. Philip has played very well and he has gotten good pass protection…the line looks solid. Now, our running back situation is another matter. I am a fan of Ryan Mathews…I think he has shown a mix of speed, power and balance that will make him a good back in the League. However, he is still running with low confidence and just still looks like a rookie. He fumbled again last game…he came into camp out of shape…he has nursed injuries and missed time. I am concerned about this kid. Mike Tolbert is a great guy to have on your team and he tries hard and runs harder. But, he is best used as a change of pace back. After they are tired out from chasing Mathews around…you bring in Tolbert to beat the stuffing out of them. Tolbert should not be the #1 option. I am hoping that Ryan gets confident and gets out of his own way because he really is spotty right now. To be fair, the line is not blocking well for him right now, but he just needs to show that confidence and hit the hole. Watch him closely in the opener…if he struggles early and drops the ball….we may have some problems. No Sproles, so if Mathews cannot hack it we are looking at a whole lot of Tolbert. Not a bad thing…but not optimal.
Let’s talk about the defense. First, the good stuff. Without question, a highlight of the preseason has been the play of first round draft pick Corey Luiget. He is big, fast, mean, and disruptive. I really like what I see. Add to some other improved players on our D-line (Vaughn Martin and Castillo) and I am optimistic here. Other than that, we have been spotty…mainly because we have had very few linebackers to throw in there. Undrafted rookie Daryll Gamble out of Georgia has been awesome. He has filled in and played entire games in the preseason and always been around the play. Those are guys you just need to find a spot for. We have not seen Shawn Phillips, Larry English, or Travis Laboy enough to have an opinion. Our young linebacker Donald Butler has looked good in #56, not quite making us forget Merriman…but he looks solid. Also, Antwan Barnes was a wrecking crew against the Cardinals…he is so fast off the end. But, he needs to be in a rotation to be effective so we need the other three guys back. In terms of the secondary…I will give them an “adequate” for now. Weddle looks good, Jammer looks good. Bob Sanders has been playing at what looks reduced speed to avoid an injury (hope that is the case). Cason has looked iffy, but he is also playing with a massive club on his hand and could not catch a beach ball or tackle his grandma with that thing. Slot corner Dante Hughes has looked OK. My biggest concern has been the same old bugaboo…tackling, toughness, and an inability to stop teams on third down. We won’t know much until the real games start but I think there have been signs that we will be a better overall defense…assuming we can get our linebackers back.
Special teams have looked much better…how could they not? Kicking game looks good, coverage has been good.
So, what is the prognosis? The final preseason game is really just a glorified tryout for who will make the team as a backup. The real work is done. The opener against Minnesota at home on September 11 is the only real indicator. But, the ANALYSIS is not the ANALYSIS for nothing. Here is my take: I feel we are a deeper, better team this year. Our losses were startlingly minimal in the offseason. That being the case, this is truly the year that will tell us if this group of Chargers has what it takes. For those who think last year was an aberration…all the turnovers, special teams gaffes, mistakes, penalties, and injuries. This is a chance for redemption. Because really, this is the same team. I am one of those who believe, perhaps foolishly, that last year was an aberration. I think we have the players to make a deep run….and I have felt this way since 2006. I like the off-season acquisitions. I like the fact that our locker room seems in sync. I like the new defensive coordinator and special teams coach. I like the depth.
If you are one of those who believes the Bolts will never win with Norv as coach…with AJ as GM and with a defense that lacks toughness…I am not going to argue with you. This is probably where the smart money lies this year…in another near miss. But, Sport is not about the smart money. If it was, I would be living in Vegas and not working on my Pension right now. As we have learned so painfully the past few years, Sport is just as much about psychology. So, despite a tough schedule I believe we do get back to the playoffs this year. From there, will we finally have the “Eureka!” moment? Will we finally find the right mix? Will the ball bounce the right way? Will Marlon McCree hold on to that interception? Will Nate Kaeding make that playoff field goal? Will we stop that 4th quarter drive? Followers, that is why we watch the games. Enjoy the season opener…I will see you on September 12.
Monday, August 29, 2011
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
BOLT ANALYSIS: THE DUST SETTLES
So, followers, there is but one question…..Are you ready for some football? At long last, the dark clouds that covered our great sport have lifted. The Collective Bargaining Agreement is signed…the strike has ended. The Rich are still Rich and the filthy Rich are even More Rich. No change at all. I won’t bore you all with a rundown of the changes in the agreement between the owners and the players because 1) I have no idea what they are, and 2) I don’t care. All I really care about is that the guys are in pads and are starting to hit each other. Fall can truly follow summer….and the pigskins will be flying.
While the end of the Strike provided much drama…it was the ensuing feeding frenzy of free agency that was really interesting. A one-week period unlike anything we have seen before…with loads of players getting signed, dumped, courted, and made wealthier. And it is still going…there are many players who have yet to find a home. Still there will be surprises and disappointments but, for now, let’s see how the Bolts did.
Who did we retain?
Signed Eric Weddle to a massive deal making him the highest paid safety in the League for now. Is he worth it? Well…I sure as hell hope so. Vincent Jackson signed his one year Franchise Tag…earning a bunch of money and setting up a full season. Jeromey Clary signed a big deal making him our Right Tackle for a long time. Billy Volek signed on to be a $3 million a year insurance policy as a backup to Phillip. Plus, they both ride to practice in Phil’s minivan so how could you break that up? Antwan Barnes returns as a pass rusher, Dante Hughes returns as a slot corner, Mike Tolbert back as our power back, Kelley Washington back as a backup receiver, Randy McMichael as a backup Tight End, Jacques Cesaire as a backup Defensive End, Brandon Dombrowski as a backup Offensive Lineman. It is clear, AJ liked his team.
Who did we get out of free agency?
Signed Takeo Spikes and Travis La Boy from San Francisco. Our new D coordinator pulls two guys from his old team to run our new Defense. Spikes at one time was a monster in the middle. He is still an active inside linebacker who can deliver a hit and help in the running game. La Boy is an outside pass rusher who will play behind Shawn Phillips and Larry English and provide some energy and disruption. Of course, the ANALYSIS already opined on the earlier signing of Bob Sanders to play safety. A lot of veteran leadership on the defense…just hope they can stay healthy. If they can, I think it’s an upgrade that will provide a lot of options for us. Not sure they are done with free agency yet. There is still talk of another Linebacker and possibly a Wide Receiver because…..
Who did we lose?
Well, we have lost Kevin Burnett to Miami. A little bummed because he had a great year at Linebacker but for the money he cost I am not surprised. He was nicked up a lot and I think between Spikes and our two young guys Jonas Mouton and Donald Butler…we may be OK. We lost Sproles. Not surprising either, although tough to stomach that we paid him $7 million a year the last two years and now he will make the same amount in 4 years with the Saints. I wish him the best…great guy. Sproley and Brees? I have a feeling that is going to work just fine. Also relocating are Brandon Siler, Donald Strickland, and Kris Wilson. All replaceable.
Who is pending?
There are two big names pending: Malcom Floyd and Stephen Cooper. It would seem unlikely at this point that either will sign with the Chargers…but the longer this goes on…the lower their contract number will be. I think Floyd has a better chance of being a Charger than Cooper but…you never know. They are both solid guys who can fit in our system well…we shall see.
So…what is the verdict?
Positive. The big fish were Weddle and Jackson and they are still Chargers. Jackson is even talking nice…so who knows, we might see a long term deal if he can hire a driver when he gets loaded. I like that we kept Clary, Volek and all the other bit players. It should lend to a cohesive locker room. The additions of Spikes, Sanders, and La Boy could provide that defensive leadership that has been lacking. To me, the linebacking corps is the key. If these guys can stay healthy and gel together…we will be better, but keep in mind we are replacing 3 guys at that position. Not easy. We did not get that one BIG signee…but we have some real depth. With the infusion of some good looking rookies…it is hard to imagine we are not an improved team. There are always loads of variables, but I think the moves and signs look pretty good. We should be hearing a lot more about chemistry out of camp by the end of the week when everyone starts practicing.
Early things to watch
Well, hate to see that Antonio Gates and Larry English are already on the “Physically Unable to Perform” or PUP list. I know it is simply a precaution, but Gates’ toe and English’s foot made for terrible news all of last year. Let’s keep the fingers crossed that this is just being careful and we won’t be subject to another long year of watching the injury report. Another warning sign is Antoine Cason’s finger…he broke it in practice yesterday and is out 2-4 weeks. I am a big fan of his…I think he stepped into a tough situation last year and is poised to be a very good corner. Plus, he will return punts. We need this guy healthy. Watch also the development of Ryan Mathews…he has taken a lot of heat lately for coming to camp out of shape. He had to quit a conditioning drill that I guess left some of his teammates pretty amazed. One thing about LT…he always came to camp 100% fit. How Ryan handles the spotlight and the expectations is huge. He will get fit…that is not a concern. But can he stay healthy and stop fumbling? Big deal. Our #1 Draft Pick has to sign soon too…Corey Luiget is one of only 4 or 5 draft picks that has not signed. The main reason is that the guys on either side of him in the Draft order have not signed and that has not set his “market”. Hopefully, he gets into camp soon and starts working.
So, that is a wrap. There will be a season and for that we can be happy. We are already hearing how Rex Ryan thinks the Jets are going to win the Super Bowl….the Eagles led by the Dog Killer are the best team ever….and the Patriots will turn neer-do-wells Ochocinco and Albert Haynesowrth into reformed Catholic Schoolchildren and they will go undefeated. That is all fine with me. The Chargers are off the radar screen…off the grid for now. That is what missing the playoffs does for you. I’ve been saying it now for 30 + years but maybe, just maybe, this is the year.
While the end of the Strike provided much drama…it was the ensuing feeding frenzy of free agency that was really interesting. A one-week period unlike anything we have seen before…with loads of players getting signed, dumped, courted, and made wealthier. And it is still going…there are many players who have yet to find a home. Still there will be surprises and disappointments but, for now, let’s see how the Bolts did.
Who did we retain?
Signed Eric Weddle to a massive deal making him the highest paid safety in the League for now. Is he worth it? Well…I sure as hell hope so. Vincent Jackson signed his one year Franchise Tag…earning a bunch of money and setting up a full season. Jeromey Clary signed a big deal making him our Right Tackle for a long time. Billy Volek signed on to be a $3 million a year insurance policy as a backup to Phillip. Plus, they both ride to practice in Phil’s minivan so how could you break that up? Antwan Barnes returns as a pass rusher, Dante Hughes returns as a slot corner, Mike Tolbert back as our power back, Kelley Washington back as a backup receiver, Randy McMichael as a backup Tight End, Jacques Cesaire as a backup Defensive End, Brandon Dombrowski as a backup Offensive Lineman. It is clear, AJ liked his team.
Who did we get out of free agency?
Signed Takeo Spikes and Travis La Boy from San Francisco. Our new D coordinator pulls two guys from his old team to run our new Defense. Spikes at one time was a monster in the middle. He is still an active inside linebacker who can deliver a hit and help in the running game. La Boy is an outside pass rusher who will play behind Shawn Phillips and Larry English and provide some energy and disruption. Of course, the ANALYSIS already opined on the earlier signing of Bob Sanders to play safety. A lot of veteran leadership on the defense…just hope they can stay healthy. If they can, I think it’s an upgrade that will provide a lot of options for us. Not sure they are done with free agency yet. There is still talk of another Linebacker and possibly a Wide Receiver because…..
Who did we lose?
Well, we have lost Kevin Burnett to Miami. A little bummed because he had a great year at Linebacker but for the money he cost I am not surprised. He was nicked up a lot and I think between Spikes and our two young guys Jonas Mouton and Donald Butler…we may be OK. We lost Sproles. Not surprising either, although tough to stomach that we paid him $7 million a year the last two years and now he will make the same amount in 4 years with the Saints. I wish him the best…great guy. Sproley and Brees? I have a feeling that is going to work just fine. Also relocating are Brandon Siler, Donald Strickland, and Kris Wilson. All replaceable.
Who is pending?
There are two big names pending: Malcom Floyd and Stephen Cooper. It would seem unlikely at this point that either will sign with the Chargers…but the longer this goes on…the lower their contract number will be. I think Floyd has a better chance of being a Charger than Cooper but…you never know. They are both solid guys who can fit in our system well…we shall see.
So…what is the verdict?
Positive. The big fish were Weddle and Jackson and they are still Chargers. Jackson is even talking nice…so who knows, we might see a long term deal if he can hire a driver when he gets loaded. I like that we kept Clary, Volek and all the other bit players. It should lend to a cohesive locker room. The additions of Spikes, Sanders, and La Boy could provide that defensive leadership that has been lacking. To me, the linebacking corps is the key. If these guys can stay healthy and gel together…we will be better, but keep in mind we are replacing 3 guys at that position. Not easy. We did not get that one BIG signee…but we have some real depth. With the infusion of some good looking rookies…it is hard to imagine we are not an improved team. There are always loads of variables, but I think the moves and signs look pretty good. We should be hearing a lot more about chemistry out of camp by the end of the week when everyone starts practicing.
Early things to watch
Well, hate to see that Antonio Gates and Larry English are already on the “Physically Unable to Perform” or PUP list. I know it is simply a precaution, but Gates’ toe and English’s foot made for terrible news all of last year. Let’s keep the fingers crossed that this is just being careful and we won’t be subject to another long year of watching the injury report. Another warning sign is Antoine Cason’s finger…he broke it in practice yesterday and is out 2-4 weeks. I am a big fan of his…I think he stepped into a tough situation last year and is poised to be a very good corner. Plus, he will return punts. We need this guy healthy. Watch also the development of Ryan Mathews…he has taken a lot of heat lately for coming to camp out of shape. He had to quit a conditioning drill that I guess left some of his teammates pretty amazed. One thing about LT…he always came to camp 100% fit. How Ryan handles the spotlight and the expectations is huge. He will get fit…that is not a concern. But can he stay healthy and stop fumbling? Big deal. Our #1 Draft Pick has to sign soon too…Corey Luiget is one of only 4 or 5 draft picks that has not signed. The main reason is that the guys on either side of him in the Draft order have not signed and that has not set his “market”. Hopefully, he gets into camp soon and starts working.
So, that is a wrap. There will be a season and for that we can be happy. We are already hearing how Rex Ryan thinks the Jets are going to win the Super Bowl….the Eagles led by the Dog Killer are the best team ever….and the Patriots will turn neer-do-wells Ochocinco and Albert Haynesowrth into reformed Catholic Schoolchildren and they will go undefeated. That is all fine with me. The Chargers are off the radar screen…off the grid for now. That is what missing the playoffs does for you. I’ve been saying it now for 30 + years but maybe, just maybe, this is the year.
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