Well, we have a game.
Before the half ended, after the 40 yard field by Nate Kaeding, Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers ran to the locker room, probably for a little medical attention. He has been limping a bit the entire game.
A few thoughts:
1. The Chargers are forcing the pass.
It is surprising, but Rivers is trying to throw the ball downfield. He hasn’t had a lot of success, but he’s trying. None of the longer passes from he or Brady have been on target. The swirling wind, which is blowing toward the Patriots sideline, allows defensive backs to adjust.
2. Patriots are in conservative mode.
This has been the Patriots mantra for several games now. They don’t take a lot of risks, on both sides of the ball. It means fewer passes to Moss, on offense, and very little blitzing.
The Patriots have not gotten a lot pressure on Rivers, who is “toughing” his injury out.
3. Game looks like Colts-Chargers tilt.
The Patriots lead, 14-9, but it is not safe. This is a quick, physical defensive unit. This game is looking a lot like the Colts-Chargers game a week ago. They are hanging around, still within one score. The drop by Welker, which would have been a first down and probably have led to points on a 14-6 hurt.
4. Patriots can’t run the ball.
The Chargers are playing tight on the run. Laurence Maroney has been a strength lately, but not yet today. It has forced Brady to throw probably a tad more than they thought, especially in the first half.
5. Chargers getting pressure on Brady.
This is not be confused with sacks, but they getting in his face.
The third quarter will be interesting. The Patriots defense took over the game last week at this stage. Without Tomlinson, it should happen again.
Stay tuned.
