Posted Monday, October 19, 2009 02:47 PM
DENVER +3.5-------------HUGE
As the Chargers' rushing attack flounders (8/16/0 vs. Pittsburgh two weeks ago), Philip Rivers is providing most of the offense for the Chargers - vs. Pittsburgh he threw for 21/36 yielding 254 yards, three TDs and zero interceptions; during week three he tossed 18/33 for 303 yards, zero TDs and zero interceptions vs. Miami. To date, Rivers is 88/150 for 1245 yards, six TDs and three interceptions (he's rushed for 7/15/1 this year). As usual, Antonio Gates leads the team in targets (35) and receptions (24/349/2). Vincent Jackson is the top WR with 29 for 20/373/2; Chris Chambers continues to see balls even though he's not catching many (22 targets for 6/69/1), and Darren Sproles is the reliable receiver out of the back field with 22 targets for 15/197/1 to date.
Denver's pass D is currently fifth in the NFL allowing just 171.8 net passing yards per game, with just two passing TDs given up over five games vs. six interceptions generated. The Broncos are second in the league with 16 sacks to their credit - the Chargers are in the middle of the NFL range with 10 sacks allowed to date. Most recently, the Broncos held Tom Brady to 19/33 for 209 net yards, two TDs and zero interceptions in their 20-17 victory over New England. This team is 5-0 and the defense is a big part of the reason they are undefeated entering week six.
Rivers has been carrying the load for the Chargers this year, but he's got a tough customer to deal with on Mon... [More]