Los Angeles Chargers: Three keys to victory against Rams
By Jason Reed
2. Rely on Philip Rivers’ quick release and yards after catch
The reason the Los Angeles Rams defense is dangerous is the same reason why the Los Angeles Chargers defense is dangerous. Both teams have great secondaries that can lock down opposing receivers and have a pass-rush that can get to the quarterback quickly.
To counteract this, the Los Angeles Chargers need to rely on Philip Rivers‘ ability to sling the ball in a quick drop and use the athleticism in the receiving corps to make the Rams miss down the middle and take receptions longer than they should be.
The Chargers have a good offensive line so Rivers is not going to be under complete duress all game. However, Aaron Donald and company is an overwhelming defensive line to come up against and there is going to be some cracks in the armory.
If there has been one thing that the Los Angeles Rams have been somewhat bad in it has been allowing yards after catch. The Chargers have some of the best receivers in the NFL when it comes to making tacklers miss and need to capitalize on that area of the offense.
Of course, the Chargers are going to need to sprinkle in some big plays and change the outlook. Wade Phillips is too much of a defensive genius for the Chargers to give the same outlook over and over and still succeed.
However, the focus of the offense should be around how quickly Rivers can fire the football and how far upfield his receivers can take it.