Los Angeles Chargers: Four keys to steal a victory in Denver
By Jason Reed
2. The performance of the three-headed monster
Although the team went 5-11 last season and may not be the most intimidating on paper, the Los Angeles Chargers have a trio of guys that should terrify opposing quarterbacks. Joey Bosa, Corey Liuget and Melvin Ingram give the Chargers a menacing front three that can slow down the run game and can pressure the quarterback.
The arrival of Joey Bosa had the biggest impact on these three guys. Bosa was the one last piece that they needed and thrived in the 12 games he played in his rookie campaign. The left end registered 41 total tackles with 10.5 sacks. This performance was good enough to get Bosa the Defensive Rookie of the Year award and he may flirt with the sack leaders this season.
As for Liuget and Ingram, they are the perfect complements to Bosa. Both guys are very talented, leaving opposing offense lines in turmoil if they decide to double Bosa. Liuget has shown the ability to sack the quarterback at a good rate early in his career, and now that he has more help, can get to the quarterback more.
However, he is a big body in the middle that is key in stopping the run game. As for Ingram, the linebacker/defensive end hybrid has sacked the quarterback18.5 times over the last two seasons.
With the Broncos having a great defense and the Chargers having a secondary known to fatigue late, the performance of these three will make or break a victory. If they can stop the run game, they will force an inexperienced Trevor Siemian to throw the football. Then, if that pressure can continue, they could shut the Broncos down in their own stadium.