Detroit Lions vs. San Diego Chargers Q&A with Bolt Beat
Can you believe week one in the NFL is finally here? To get a feel for the Detroit Lions first opponent, the San Diego Chargers, I decided to get together with Ernie Padaon, editor of Bolt Beat for a pregame Q&A.
Below are my questions followed by his responses:
Did the Chargers improve, stay the same, or get worse this offseason?
"The team got better. There was no significant losses off of the roster and the team improved it’s biggest weakness on the offensive line. The team picked up Orlando Franklin to play the guard spot and DJ Fluker was moved inside to take on the other guard position with Joe Barksdale signed to take the right tackle role.Melvin Gordon will make an impact in the run game and will be a home run threat for the offense. Danny Woodhead also returns and that will be a huge boost to the offense."
What type of role do you expect to see from Melvin Gordon on Sunday?
"He will be the lead back. He will sit out on passing downs and allow Danny Woodhead to make plays. Melvin should get around 20-25 carries in the game."
Which rookie not named Melvin Gordon are you most looking forward to watching?
"5th round draft pick Kyle Emanuel has made an impact in the preseason and will get plenty of action for the Chargers. The guy can play and will find a way to your quarterback."
What matchup will have the biggest impact on who wins and who loses on Sunday?
"Our young center Chris Watt vs Haloti Ngata. We know what Ngata can do and our center has only played the position 2 years in his life. If he is unable to handle the middle, then the run game will suffer and the pocket will collapse right onto Philip’s lap."
What are your predictions for the game?
"The Chargers will win the game. Philip Rivers and Melvin Gordon will control the clock on offense and keep all the Lions offensive weapons sitting on the sideline."
For more from Ernie and his staff check out Bolt Beat. A big thanks to Ernie for taking the time to answer my questions.
Next: Detroit Lions Injury Report: Levy Doubtful vs. Chargers