Thursday, September 25, 2014

Chargers host Win-less Jags

Busy week for the Bolts, fly home with a big W from Buffalo, injuries, transactions, photo shoots, an almost black out at the Q loomed and another AFC Player of the Week awarded to the Blue and Gold, as the Chargers get set to host a win-less Jacksonville team starting their first round pick, 22 year old QB, Blake Bortles for his premier start!

SDvsBILLS


Chargers have had all sorts of elements in regards to nature for the last month, from an earthquake to heat wave to wind and rain, not surprising and it didn't hamper them one bit. I'm not sure what stands out strongest to me from the 22-10 win vs. the BillsWeddle’s hellacious hit, Kendall Reyes 18 yard sack, Donald Brown touching the ball 36 times, of 61 total on the offense, carrying the ball for 62 yards. Malcolm Floyd with 98 receiving yards, Corey Liuget impressive defensive domination, Eddie Royal with 2 TD's, and the ever mobile foreman at the helm, Phillip Rivers with an unbelievable performance, 256 yards and 2 TD's. It was definitely a team win, however the W didn't come with out downfalls too.   Injuries, the second RB down in 2 weeks, and in my mind the most difficult to replace, sure handed, can catch, block and run, Danny Woodhead was injured after first carry, he will be sorely missed the remainder of the season. Manti Te'o also with a foot injury, out for 4-6 weeks.  Prayers and speedy recovery wishes to both!

It wasn't long before fans on twitter started to chime and try to recruit possible fits; this was during the game as well

Transactions


Busy day of transactions for Chargers that would be 10!! Signed LB Cordarro Law, RB Shaun Draughn and LB Kevin Reddick that's 2 Tar Heels, both Draughn and Reddick went to North Carolina. Placed RB Danny Woodhead on the injured reserve list. Released DE Lawrence Guy. Released CB Marcus Cromartie from the injured reserve list. Signed RB Marion Grice from the practice squad. (The Arizona Cardinals quickly picked him up on Monday). Re-signed LB Colton Underwood and RB D.J. Adams to the practice squad. Signed TE Dave Paulson to the practice squad. Waived S Adrian Phillips from the practice squad.


Welcome to San Diego !!


Shaun Draughn (pronounced Drone) joining his 6th team since 2011, with an average carry of 3.4 yards last season. Washington Redskins (2011)*, Kansas City Chiefs (2011–2012), Baltimore Ravens (2013) Indianapolis Colts (2013), Chicago Bears (2014) And as of Tuesday he is a Bolt, Draughn was released September 6th by the Bears, the selection you might question, as I was initially, why?? And that he has played on so many rosters. The silver lining is that he knows that many playbooks and surely is adaptable to be able to play. Fun tidbit he had his first running TD vs. the Chargers when he played for KC. Congratulations in order for dominating defensive force Mr. Corey Liuget, as he is the AFC Defensive Player of the Week, that's 2 Chargers players in two weeks, in case you’re counting.

A little break from practice for the players at camp Thursday, Chargers players bolted up or primped up with the Thursday Night Football production crew, all doing their ISO shots, for their coming #TNF game a month away at Mile High, #SDvsDEN.

JAXvsSD

©desireeastorga
A Blackout hovered all week in America’s Finest City, Thursday it was announced that by multiple local sponsors KFMB (CBS 8), Union Bank, Donovan’s Steak & Chop House, The Sycuan Band of Kumeyaay Indians and the Brigantine Family of Restaurants all joined forces in guaranteeing the game to be televised locally.



“We’re grateful for the support from our corporate partners,” said Chargers Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer A.G. Spanos. “Their support is making it possible for families from our local military bases to enjoy a great experience at the game Sunday. Their actions are also making it possible for everyone at home to see the team play.”
©desireeastorga
#TBT Halftime KCvsSD 2007 Photo ©desireeastorga
All over the NFL is Hispanic Heritage Month, its obviously no different in San Diego, Karina Iglesias, contestant on The Voice will sing the National Anthem, along with the team honoring San Diego natives Carlos and Linda LeGerrette with the NFL Hispanic Heritage Leadership Award for their long-standing community contributions. Jacksonville comes into San Diego being outscored 119 to 27, win-less at 0-3 and with the line at 13.5. Jaguars had only scored 1 TD in their last 10 quarters until Bortles connected with Allen Hurns for a 63-yard TD in the fourth last week, followed by a 10 yard score by Cecil Shorts III with seconds left in their 44-14 annihilation in Indy last Sunday. The team travels again for their 3rd away game with Floridian Blake Bortles to have his first start in the NFL.
"It was definitely good to get some game action before you go into the week of practice," Bortles said. "So I mean kind of taking it one day at a time, try to learn from everything, every experience, situation you get put in and move on."
I would say watch for 2nd round pick, Trojan stand out receiver Marquise Lee to be a target for the Florida reared Bortles, however as of Thursday, he’s on the DNP list with a hamstring injury, along with DT, Roy Miller, (ankle), TE Mickey Shuler (illness) and FB Will Ta’ufo’ou (ankle). There seem to be an explosion of injuries all over the league, more so than normal, or perhaps that’s what I always think, just seems more, hence why the practice squad is a revolving door first 3 weeks of the season, any given Sunday, so cliché but true on every level.

Chargers injury report Thursday, OLB Jerry Attaochu (hamstring), TE David Johnson (shoulder), C  Rich Ohrnberger (back), ILB Manti Te’o (foot) CB Jason Verrett (hamstring) and LB Reggie Walker all DNP (did not participate in practice, in case you don’t know). Noteworthy, Ohrnberger also was on the DNP list last week and played. David Johnson possible loss is more than meets the stats, his fullback and blocking ways are definitely needed with the slim back and new back situation.
Trap game, I know, hate the term as well, but just as the Chargers historically seem to beat opponents no one thinks they can, the shoe-in games are the scary ones for the fans. Especially with the team injuries compiling, next man up, yes one more idiom for you, why not through in one game at a time while I'm at it. Chargers should stampede the Jags, that is if they keep their eyes set on the game at hand, not project to the New York. I have confidence with McCoy and these players, this family, in keeping the focus on the field, in the moment and one play at a time. There is definitely something special going on at 2040 Murphy Canyon Road something that extends beyond practice, games or even in the locker room, it’s truly a special family!

Dynamite week wishes, cheers!  I’m out! Till next week.

 Desiree
You can follow me on insta or twitter @desiree_astorga
First Downs and Flip Tricks
Time out with Desiree, the silver linings An optimistic realist with intermittent football tourettes all the while searching for the 3rd dimension.
The Desiree Show
Photographer, producer, host, reporter, radio & TV, One-man-army, artist, skateboarder

Thursday, September 18, 2014

Chargers Hot and Off to Buffalo


America's finest city is still buzzing after taking down the World Champs on an extremely hot, white and humid San Diego day at the Q, Chargers travel just under 5 hours with a 3 hour time difference to an unbeaten Bills team, a new baby born game day and an AFC weekly player crowned. Yes, despite all the predictions Bolts played keep a way from the Hawks and took 42 minutes of the game to a victory at the Q, where the temperature on the field reached 120, not to mention the humidity, which seemed to just invigorate the Bolts. Historically these seem to be the games the Chargers win, the ones, no one thinks they can.  By the way, at what temperature does a game become too dangerous to play in? Anyone?
After a rough start with the #MNF opener in AZ, a sea of white-hot Chargers fans welcomed Seattle with the team on the field winning all phases of the ball Sunday, even with out some key players, with Hardwick out for the season, Flowers hamstring and Jarred Johnson wife going into labor in the wee hours on Sunday, Bolts didn't miss a beat! Congratulations to Anna and Jarred Johnson on the birth of their second daughter Grace Anne. Quick notes on the game, a few missed flags, missed calls however, Chargers beat down while keeping possession 42 minutes 13 seconds,  along with 75 plays over Seattle's 30, it was hot and a Chargers white out at the Q. Rivers to Gates repeated not once, not twice, but three times in the end zone, the last one a phenomenal one handed catch clad by 2 Hawks, 7 receptions for 97 yards and 3 TD's.   Granting Antonio Gates with the AFC player of the week, #Rivers2Gates has a nice sound to it, especially if you’re a Bolts fan.  Chargers dominate Seahawks 30-21 and will fly northeast with a 1-1 record.

8 plays was the longest drive the Hawks had, this is a double edge sword in some ways though, amidst the heat where all wanting a turbin, Chargers defense were unable to stop Turbin. However, they controlled the ball for 42 minutes vs. one of the best defenses, Richard Sherman was an obsolete issue. Rivers was awing, taking hits and scrambling making plays happen all day, while tearing apart the Seattle defense, all the while rocking a 61 on his helmet for long time buddy and center, Nick Hardwick. He ran and threw over them, was 28/37 for 284 yards and one TD.
  A few glitches, 3 times inside the redzone, chargers had holding calls, Ryan Matthews two fumbles that were recovered by the blue and gold, but brought upon one more injury, MCL along with more of the same issues, loosing the ball.  Actually in the stats he wasn't given credit for both?  I have had my doubts about his health and loose hands, but I don't with Donald Brown and Danny Woodhead.  That being said, one glaring statistic is the 3rd rusher on the team is Phillip Rivers, not known for his speed either.  With a total of 101 rushing yards a Sunday, 17 of those belong to Phillip.  Rivers locker room post victory, referring to all the media hating on Sunday Morning Countdown, always saying the Chargers aint got a chance, he finished with,

"We always got a chance!! Always gotta chance!!

Chargers on three!

CHHHHHAAAAARRRGERS!!!!"

#SDvsBUF

SDvsBUFsq Off to Buffalo, seen as one of the big surprises around the league, the Bills seem to have some magic going on. After a torrent of issues in the off season; the loss of Ralph C. Wilson, who founded them in 1959 (not just a loss for Buffalo but for the entire league), the diagnosis of all time great HOF Jim Kelly, the threat of the Bills being moved by interested buyer Bon Jovi to Toronto and even into the pre-season with doubts for the first string QB, EJ Manual. Buffalo has a new or a re-found enchantment which is filled with tradition, pride and an undefeated record. Jim Kelly announced he was cancer free, local billionaire Terry Pegula and family purchased the Bills along with keeping the team in Buffalo, Andre Reed inducted in the HOF and EJ Manuel finding his rhythm, (after some pre-season panicking and after picking up Kyle Orton for $5M), last week he showed everyone 32/48 for 375 yards, one INT and a rating of 95.4.  Add 2 phenom backs, Fred Jackson and CJ Spiller, who also had a 102 kick return in their 29-10 pummeling of Miami. Oh and don't forget their number one draft pick, Sammy Watkins, who did participate in practice Thursday and former Trojan, Robert Woods (did not participate Thursday). Defense was plus 4 on turnovers as well, remember they also beat the Bears in Chicago, who just went to SF and beat the Niners. This will be a dangerously passionate game.  Chargers will need to be able to run the ball and stop the run, two things they have struggled with, (ranked 27rd in the league for the run at 76.5 yards). Working as a team, a family on the field has not been one of their issues, but a blessing, as they have a family in the realest sense. Kick off is at 1:00 PM EST, or 10:00 AM for PST, it's a morning game for Chargers.  

Statistically speaking

Head to head last 2 of 3 have gone to the Chargers;  
12/11/11        SD 37 BUF10
10/19 08         SD 14 BUF 23
12/3/06           SD 24 BUF 21

OFFENSE
SD 19th          BUF 17th       
DEF
SD 18th          BUF 21st                   
PASSING
SD 8th             BUF 26th    
RUSHING
SD 27th         BUF 7th         
Note worthy on the Injury report as of ThursdayFlowers,  Freeney, Luiget and Davis;  FP, full participation.  However; Ohrnberger, back (who is in for Hardwick), Attaochu (hamstring) , Troutman (back), Ingram (hamstring) and of course Matthews (knee) DNP = did not participate in practice.  Chargers OC, Frank Reich very familiar with Ralph C. Wilson Field, as still the longest back up tenure to Jim Kelly, let me refresh your memory, 1998,coined "the comeback" Kelly suffered a strained ligament in his knee. Reich finished and led the upset, then taking them to the AFC Championship game vs. Miami.

One more bit of specialness, Junior Seau was nominated to the Hall of Fame, earlier this week.

Dynamite game wishes to the Chargers, should be a good one!! Sending dynamite football week wishes to you all!

 Cheers, till next week!
 Desiree
 You can follow me on insta or twitter @desiree_astorga

First Downs and Flip Tricks 
Time out with Desiree, the silver linings An optimistic realist with intermittent football tourettes all the while searching for the 3rd dimension.
The Desiree Show
Photographer, producer, host, reporter, radio & TV, One-man-army, artist, skateboarder

Friday, September 5, 2014

Chargers to Kick Off on MNF



Final cuts, flip-flops and a Monday Night Football opener, just a few things going on in San Diego this week.  Same team different state, Bolts fly to Phoenix for the NFL 2014 Monday Night Football opener. Yes, they just hosted the Cardinals August 28th, edging over them in the final fourth pre season game 12-9, Chargers, but it was the battle of the two's, three's and four's to make the squad, so let's start with who made the cut to the 53 man roster ,  for a keener look here's the depth chart.  Congrats to undrafted free agent from University of Buffallo, Brandon Oliver, yes number 43, taking a spot after impressing all.

700 plus players released collectively all over the league on Saturday, 300 will get work on practice squads or have already, which will be a revolving door for the first 3 weeks.  Chargers practice squad announced, with three little pops actually four, one sixth round pick, Marion Grice had a crazy 48 hours, made the roster Saturday, was released and then signed to the practice squad Tuesday. Two, newly released Cardinal and former Aztec, Ryan Lindley was signed to the practice squad, with heaps of media questioning the match up just ahead.
Coach McCoy was adamant in interviews indicating that there is no connection,"We didn't make the choice because we're playing AZ, you can highlight it, bold it or underline it!"
Third, shortly after being released former Chargers and Stanford, Thomas Keiser joins a new Cardinal in Phoenix.  Fourth, Chargers 2011 3rd round draft pick Vincent Brown was released, however it is side noted, per www.Chargers.com,  It is important to note that Vincent Brown was waived-injured, and should he clear waivers will be placed on the reserve-injured list.
Tom Tellesco on Darren Smith Show on Wednesday spoke on difficulty in picking the WR's
"Tough decision and we have a lot of respect for Vincent and how he played for us……."                                                         When asked was it more about what Inman and Tutu did or what Vincent didn't do, he replied, "More about what the two (Inman and Ajiritutu) did…."

MNF

#FBF #FLASHBACKFRIDAY I can't not but think of Michaels and Madden, which sadly is no longer the MNF I grew to love!
AlMichaels&JohnMadden
#FBF #MNF Madden & Michaels
Granted I think Cris Collingsworth has done an amazing job, but that moved to Sundays. Still Monday Night Football sets the stage for the entire world, the only game going on, hence all the attention as ESPN's crew Mike Tirico, Jon Gruden and Lisa Salters hold it down with an entire studio slew of former player, commentators Chris Berman, Stuart Scott, Mike Ditka, Keyshawn Johnson, Cris Carter, Tom Jackson, Steve Young, Trent Dilfer and Ray Lewis.  If your a Chargers player or fan, this ideally will be the first stadium of the season and the last one, as University of Phoenix is the home for Super Bowl 49.  Chargers hold the all-time record over the Cards 9-3, however Arizona comes in as the 3 point favorite for Monday.
Familiarity from week to week with also former Chargers and Jet, Antonio Cromartie and one of the best run stops in the NFL last season.  Chargers secondary will need to watch out for Cardinals 2nd pick in the 3rd round, WR John Brown, Pittsburg State, At the 2014 NFL Combine, he ran the 40-yard dash in 4.34 seconds, which ranked as the third-fastest time of any player at the event.
 “With this long and then playing Monday night, that’s always the challenge as coaches (to) just keep it simple and stay to the basics,” Frank Reich said.  “We’ve been waiting for this game for a long time.  So I think we’re pretty honed in.  I think we’ve been narrowly focused and have had a good idea all along how we wanted to attack.  We’ve really tried to get the plan in place early so we could focus on fundamentals, technique and just playing good football.   Play good sound football, run your basic stuff and win your one-on-one matchups. At the end of the day that’s what it comes down to.”
Few key odds and ends, first this is a must win for the San Diego Chargers, they have a history of starting slow with games and struggling early in the season, however they finish strong with a force when they become the underdogs.  Phillip Rivers last year stats in the redzone, 22 TD's 1 INT, the run, 8 redzone TD's, 5 of those Ryan Matthews with a 2.5 yrd per carry average.  New face to San Diego, Donald Brown with an average of 4 yards per carry in the redzone. This could mean nothing or could be a deciphering factor on who the number one back will be, as Matthews has a history of losing the ball, just as he did in the opening pre season game on the goal line, while Brown has not fumbled since 2009.  This, once again, is a must WIN for the Bolts kickoff at 7:20 PM PST, as they need a quick start out of the gate and will turn around and host the SB48 Champs, The Seattle Seahawks 6 nights later for their home opener, a #SNF  WHITE OUT!

Injury Report as of Friday

Good news full participation for Nick Hardwick and Keenan Allen.
injuryreport

Huge congratulations to the 37th member of the Charger HOF DE,  Leslie O'Neal!!
It's safe to say that San Diego is ready for some FOOTBALL and possibly Tostitos, too!
thx.chargers
Dynamite week wishes on a packed Sunday of football as you wait for the first #MNF of the season, a double header commencing at 4:10 PM PST with NYGvsBUF ! Enjoy ALL the football this weekend!




Cheers,
You can follow me on insta or twitter
@desiree_astorga
FIRST DOWNS AND FLIP TRICKS
Time out with Desiree, the silver linings
An optimistic realist with intermittent football tourettes all the while searching for the 3rd dimension.
The DesireeSHOW
Photographer, producer, host, reporter, radio & TV, One-man-army, artist, skateboarder