Friday, August 15, 2014

CENTURYLINK HERE COME THE CHARGERS


photo 4-thumb-824x583-43187
Family, birthday wishes, the last three to leave the practice field, ice bucket challenges and music as the Chargers board the plane to Seattle to play the #SB48 champs, the first home game for the #12thman since the title. #SDvsSEA (1-0) Chargers vs (0-1) Seahawks  kicks off at 7PM Friday, record is not of importance, though,  but it's fun, it will be LOUD and possibly with some precipitation.

Friends, family and training camp comes to a close for the public, but that means the seasons even closer. Chargers face off with the Champs Friday at Centurylink Stadium, loud music being merely one of the tools in prep for the game, as the Hawks fans have set the bar high in noise, donning the Seahawks the loudest and most difficult place to play. Let me remind you this is an exposition game, however, its the opener for all the #12s as the hawks host their 2014 premier on Friday night.
Mike McCoy "We've had music all camp long it has been extremely loud at times, this is just a little different, a lil more annoying you could say, very similar to when you go on the road to a loud place like Seattle, which is the loudest stadium in the league week in and week out, and with the great 12th man they have there. So just a little introduction to it tune in and focus and make sure to communicate in a loud hostile environment."
Chargers will await to host Seattle, September 14th for their home opener, this is all prep, for the fans and for the team. A fan loud white out rumored to occur in San Diego for the game.

Run Bolts Run


#FBF Sproles ©desiree astorga
#FBF Sproles ©desiree astorga
Quick hits in regards to #DALvsSD, the run was prevalent! The backs were stand outs! The pace great as well, you can look forward to the game getting faster and faster as the weeks near the official KickOff to the 2014 season. 152 total rushing yards, numbers to watch Highlights (34)Donald Brown, Branden Oliver, the return of the number 43, with much comparisons to the former jersey wearer, Darren Sproles.
Leading the pack with 7 carries for 64 rushing yards and 1 TD. Former Buckeye, (45) Zach Boren coming in with sole FB duties, Marion Grice (28) with 14 carries for 35 rushing yards and the always productive asset Mr. Danny Woodhead. One apprehension Mathews fumble, will pause on full alarm however, it just came at a crucial moment. 243 receiving yards, leading, Dontrelle Inman with 3 receptions for 107 yards and one TD, followed by Ladarius Green with 2 catches for 26 yards, Danny Woodhead 1 for 25 yards, yes his name again, and Joe Flacco's younger brother Mike Flacco with a reception for 18 yards.

Charger QBs were on point almost perfect between the three with 14 of 16 combined with 243 yards.

  • Brad Sorensen 7 for 5, 48 yards
  • Kellen Clemens 5 for 5, 134 yards
  • Philip Rivers 4 for 4, 61 yards


Defensive Leaders Jahlee Addae, Reggie Walker, Greg Ducre and Darrell Stuckey. Colton Underwood and Thomas Keiser both with a sack while Reggie Walker and Cordarro Law split one.

Few odds & ends

Last three players to leave the practice Dontelle InmanEddie Royal and Brandon Flowers, yes he is back on the practice field and yes, they all are friends! Jason Verrett took off the red jersey and Birthday wishes in order for Chargers' Veteran and #rolltide Jarrett Johnson celebrated his 33rd birthday on Thursday.

Challenged in SD

Earlier this week, John Elway called out Tom Tellesco to do the #ALSIceBucketChallenge he accepted. After practice on Wednesday he came through while Eric Weddle dressed and assisted his GM for the special occasion. All for the good of ALS.
Tellesco, " The Chargers never back down from an AFC West rival"
This continued, spread through out the league and community
and so on and so on……………..reminds me of #FBF Joe Nammoth Faberge commercials' like a fabrige shampoo commercial, except I can't find it, but found one getting creamed! Happy #Flashbackfriday!

Cheers to another week and 3 weeks till the season officially commences.
Desiree
You can follow me on insta or twitter
@desiree_astorga
Time out with Desiree, the silver linings
An optimistic realist with intermittent football tourettes all the while searching for the 3rd dimension.
The DesireeSHOW

Thursday, August 7, 2014

CHARGERS TO KICKOFF THE PRESEASON



No Black-Out in SD!! More competition, faster younger, family atmosphere and some great additions to the 89-man roster, a lot of depth in the charts a more upbeat tempo and balance on the offense, the new additions to solidify the defense and to watch dreams materialize on special teams. San Diego hosting Dallas for their first preseason match up.

Yep it kicked off Sunday with Bills hosting Giants for the HOF game in Canton Ohio, but for the rest of the league preseason commences tonight with 6 games continues to Friday with 6 as well and then 4 on Saturday to wind up the first week of preseason. Chargers hosting the Cowboys to a sold out Q. #TGITNF! Unfortunately Tony Romo will not play, after his second back surgery, Cowboys backup QB Brandon Weeden will get the start.
Former Charger greats, Hall of Famer Dan Fouts with the play-by play and Pro Bowler Billy Ray Smith with the color will be holding down the booth for ABC, both with a lot of early enthusiasm for the 2014 Chargers.

Dan Fouts praised “Tellesco has done a great job. Mike McCoy in his second year has got the team very focused, enthused and all those things bolt well for the Chargers this season.”
Fouts on challenges in regards to the schedule, “They have to play the NFC West, which is the best division in football with Seattle, San Francsico, Arizona and St Louis, you talk about the family atmosphere here, that will be tested here. I just hope the family is not like a Kardasian”


Although its going to be a long road for SD, a brutal one, especially the last 7 games after the bye:  @ Raiders, Rams, @ Ravens, Patriots, Broncos, @ Niners, Chiefs. One thing that is clearly a must is for this team to stay healthy, but I am getting ahead of myself, we haven’t even kicked off a preseason game yet, so lets get back to the here and now. Kickoff is in few hours as I write, every year I amp out, this year is no different, and yes its not the real season, yet, but its an indicator that my long awaited off season has passed!

DEPTH CHARTS!!

Offense:

chargersoffdepth

Rivers will most likely only play one possessions. What I’m looking forward to seeing is this new offense with Frank Reich at the helm. How fast? Chip Kelly fast?? How balanced? How much run will I see? Play calling…yep the usual, with some new ones in the mix, really looking forward to upbeat and balanced.
Malcolm Floyd back on the field, after that scary neck injury last September.
Donald Brown in the backfield.
The three headed running game.
Former Steelers TE David Johnson’s contribution, he can block and has descent hands along with a ring.
Fouts enthusiastic about David Johnson “He’s versatile, and brings attitude and toughness”
Also interested in watching both back up QB’s whom I believe we will see much of in the next few weeks, Kellen Clemens former Oregon Duck with 8 years in the NFL and Former Southern Utah’s Brad Sorenson, whom I was impressed with last pre season.

Defense:

chargersdefdepth
Brandon Flowers and Jason Verrett not to play, however I look forward to seeing second round pick Jerry Attauchu and the secondary especially the edges. Dwight Freeney healthy with veteran leadership back on the field, along with Melvin Ingram, almost having them healthy and back is like getting two more players.

Special Teams:

chargersdepthspecial
This is where the 2nd, 3rd and 4th quarter becomes interesting for me. This is your way to make the team!   The guys that shine bright during these exhibition games have the best chance to make it on the squad, special teams is usually the avenue for these fortunate ones. Kick return, punt return, at present with KR, Donald Brown and Eddie Royal as PR, best check out Javontee Herndon WR from Arkansas and 7th round pick Tevin Reese, WR from Baylor making a splash at practice.

Well Kick off is coming soon! Although there is no meriting on the game, a lot will show hopefully some sort of preview if you read between the lines.

First Roster cuts August 26th prior to 4;00 PM EST clubs must reduce roster to a maximum of 75 players on the active list.

Cheers till next week.
You can follow me on insta or twitter
@desiree_astorga
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

Thursday, July 31, 2014

MUSIC, MAGIC & MEDIA AT CHARGERS CAMP



Fun, music, excitement, family, reunions and even national media at Chargers Camp with a week left till the first preseason game. Five of the ten practices open to the fans remain, with Chargers Fan Fest 2014 at the Q on Saturday. A sense of family encompasses as well, with veteran players, all taking pay cuts. LT, Ladainian Tomlinson, back on the field along with Head Coach Mike McCoy on with The Jim Rome Show.


Tons of enthusiasm and hope, even drones flying and this is essentially across the league at every camp, feeling or saying the same, but theirs a little magic here in San Diego. There is definitely a bit of a buzz in the atmosphere.


Family, Mike McCoy and Tom Telesco brought a stronger feeling of family when they came; it has spread throughout the entire HQ's. Jeromey Clarey, who played with multiple injuries taking a $3 million dollar pay cut (actually $2.95M) and you have a player like Jarrett Johnson who played with a broken hand along with Eddie Royal, both taking pay cuts a few months back. It is a TEAM, no I in TEAM; a team is a family, all like a car needing every part to operate. San Diego has something special, I'm not talking sorcery, but I am seeing a conjuring of an extraordinary quality or power showing up at Camp for this team.

Fast and Speed two additives used to describe the players and tempo, add music as well.

Jarrett Johnson"I am really excited and to be honest a lil shocked the youth, the youthful talent and youthful speed on our team, it was really weird cause was different from just mini camp thought I had a pretty good feel how we were gonna be in mini camp and we get here and… just with the addition of Brandon Flowers and the rookie playing (referring to rookie Jerry Attaochu) …. Everyone we have, can move."


Charger Practice Mix, music blaring first day at camp, HC McCoy had encouraged players to give song requests, only one did, so the first day all that played was country. It didn't take long, actually day two came around from twanging to rock to all kinds of bumpin in the air, lending a fun atmosphere during camps and bringing up the energy level.
#FBF LT 2006 Charger Camp photo ©desireeastorga


#FlashBackFriday as LT was back on the practice field, although in a different suit, while working with the NFL Network. Reunited with former teammates, enthusiastic about the run while coining it a "three headed horse" and lots of love from the Chargers Family.
"I miss this duo, LT & Gatsey", Jennifer Rojas, Chargers PR
"LT & Gatesy" photo Jennifer Rojas, Chargers PR
Ladainian stating the backs, "compliments in a perfect way."
Describing Woodhead as a "match up nightmare" and the addition of Donald Brown, " the perfect mix between Ryan Mathews and Danny Woodhead ........and a great screen runner and he can block."

With only hours till the HOF Class of 2014 ceremony and first preseason game, most warranting to give a big shout out to the one and only Mr. Andre Reed, San Diego native, on this special Saturday. Huge deserving congratulations!!
Congrats to the entire Class of 2014:  Derrick Brooks, Ray Guy, Claude Humphrey, Walter Jones, Andre Reed, Michael Strahan, and Aeneas Williams.  All will be formally enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame during the memorable ceremony on Saturday, Aug. 2, 2014.


Less than a week till the Q will kickoff with the Cowboys in town, but who's counting? I know I am!

Cheers till next week!

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

Thursday, July 24, 2014

CHARGERS KICK OFF TRAINING CAMP



Three thousand fans showed up Thursday morning for the first Charger Training Camp of the 2014 season. Kick off for the 2014 season doesn’t officially commence till September 4th, however it feels like it has for fans, players and coaches as 4020 Murphy Canyon Road was packed this morning. San Diego hot and hopping right now with even Comic Con just down the street during a heat wave.

A whole new season just about to start!

41 days till #2014NFL SEASON officially kicks off! Yes, I have been counting! First Charger pre-season game less than 2 weeks away, fans picking their seats, new acquisitions, rookies, vets, new offensive cord and sophomore year for HC Mike McCoy.
SAN DIEGO ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL!!
It’s been as expected a pretty busy few days,

Tuesday:

Larry English was released making the 2009 draft class obsolete in SD.
“Danny is an integral part of our offense,” said General Manager Tom Telesco.  “His work ethic and on-field production were key elements last year.  We look forward to having him be a part of the Chargers organization into the future.”

Wednesday:

Conditioning, Jeromey Clary put on PUP and Jonas Mouton was waived, failed physical.

Thursday:

CAMP!!!
Excitement in the air on both sides of the ball as we patiently wait for the 2014 Charger roster to unfold.  Passion, competition with an air of family on the field as fans watched with enthusiasm as 89 players, among them the Rookie class and additions all rallying for a spot on the soon to be 53 man roster.
2014 Draft Class
  • RD 1 (25th overall) CB Jason Verrett  TCU
  • RD 2 (50th overall) OLB Jerry Attaochu  Georgia Tech
  • RD 3 (89th overall) DT Ryan Carrethers  Arkansas State
  • RD 6 (201st overall) RB Marion Grice  Arizona State
  • RD 7 (240th overall) WR Tevin Reese  Baylor
New draft picks and acquired players all dressed to impress coaches, teammates and on lookers alike while vets continued to show why they’re in San Diego. Camp commenced with even new soap in the media room restroom.
 Rookie OLB, Jason Attaochu,  “Reminds me of first day of college camp”.
Defense: with a new look, many new additions, the draft brought a lot of hope to the defense along with former rival CB Brandon Flowers via KC.
Charger #1 Draft Pick, Jason Verrett, out with the first team
Charger #1 Draft Pick, Jason Verrett, out with the first team
WR Eddie Royal, shared his excitement “I like the group of guys we have, it started with OTA’s and mini camps. Guys out there competing, were having fun and we just love being out there on the field, we have a group of guys that love playing football and whenever your around that it makes the game a lot better for you".
But what's also buzzing is the new Offensive Coordinator and an actual run or should I say a more balanced offense and the promise of an even more productive red zone and an upbeat tempo from Frank Reich. The former NFL QB (1985-1998) brings years of experience on the field and off as a coach, as well.
#FBF Charger Training Camp 2006 Photo ©desireeastorga
#FBF Charger Training Camp 2006 Photo ©desireeastorga

“You have to be an aggressive play caller,” Reich said. “That doesn’t mean more passes than runs. It means situational football, knowing what to do, how to take advantage of it and trusting your players to do what you call.”



“With Frank as offensive coordinator, we will be able to maintain continuity on offense and help maximize the production by Philip and the entire unit,” HC Mike McCoy stated, “He has a great feel for the offense we have created and he has been a valuable asset to Philip and all of the quarterbacks.”




On a sad note…

Rivers to Gates #FBF photo ©desiree astorga
Rivers to Gates #FBF photo ©desiree astorga
With tons of elation for the commencement of Camp, the day however started with a lump in everyone’s stomach and hearts as news came out this morning that Antonio Gates 22 year old sister, Pamela had passed; she had been suffering from Lupus for three years. My heart and prayers go out to Antonio and the entire Gates family. Its been shared that after every game last season he would fly to Detroit to be with her.
Again prayers, as my heart is in my stomach, tough, tough times for the Gates Family


First Preseason game
Thursday August 7th
CHARGERS hosting DALLAS
7PM KO

Thanks for being my opening kick return as I start the 2014 NFL season. It's going to be an amazing and challenging season as Chargers face the NFC West and AFC North this year.
Desiree Astorga
Photographer, producer, host, reporter, radio & TV, One-man-army, artist, skateboarder
Time out with Desiree, the silver linings
An optimistic realist with intermittent football tourettes all the while searching for the 3rd dimension.
The DesireeSHOW
 

Saturday, May 3, 2014

Chargers Join STAR/PAL & SD Community For Youth


Market Creek Events and Venues – At the Joe & Vi Jacobs Center – San Diego

The 14th Annual Celebrity Waiter Luncheon

posse©desireeastorga
The entire San Diego community joined together for the 14th Annual Celebrity Waiter Luncheon at the Joe & Vi Jacobs Center in San Diego.  Jerseys and uniforms clad with small red aprons; ChargersPadres, the SD Fire & Police departments, former NFL and NBA players, Aztecs, Sockers and even golf pros all came together Friday to join together for one cause to help kids, through STAR/PAL. Their mission to empower underserved youth to build a safer and more prosperous community by engaging with law enforcement and collaborative partners.

©desireeastorga
Aztec's HC Steve Fisher & Police Chief Shelley Zimmerman photo ©desiree astorga
 SD Chief of Police Shelley Zimmerman  "We have the Chargers, we have the Padres, we have community leaders that are out here. It just goes to show we are one department, one city, all for one thing, that's to to raise funds to help our underserved youth, because it doesn't matter where you live, to feel safe, you should feel safe no matter where you live and this gives you, our community an opportunity to help all our kids."
From Chiefs to linebackers, pitchers to counsel members, forwards to dunkers, coaches, officers, chippers, Swinging Friars, pom poms, Chopper and kickers along with business owners and fireman, all in attendance for a community. Pretty much the most amazing event I’ve ever been at with an entire city working together, all giving back for at risk kids for San Diego.
Manti Te'o photo ©desiree astorga
Manti Te'o posing with fan photo ©desireeastorga
Manti Te'o  "Anytime you get to have an impact on people in whatever way or fashion it's always good, a lot of people are here to make a difference, it's a good cause."
Kendall Reyes,©desireeastorga
Kendall Reyes in action photo ©desireeastorga
Kendall Reyes "This is awesome, just to give back anyway I can, this is the second year doing and it's honestly one of my favorite events. Kind of get everyone together and then we go out and just to see the looks on some peoples faces, they're just so excited to see us and all goes towards a good cause, there is nothing wrong with that."
Pads ©desiree astorga
Padres' Yasmani Grandal and Yonder Alonso helping and having fun photo ©desireeastorga
Tons of smiles, laughter, photos, media from all facets throughout San Diego, oh and one crucial item, the sharpie. With an abundance of athletes, as on the field competition sets in to who could bring in the most, was like vying for position on game day. In a fundraising setting it's only a win-win. Players buzzing from table to table in small red aprons, signatures were prevalent and abundant just like the San Diego sun, as were the photos. Manti even had a line waiting.
Fluker Clarey ©desiree astorga
DJ and Jeromey, with sharpies and smiles, as SD Policeman looks on photo ©desireeastorga

D.J. Fluker  "It was very competitive, (chuckle),
Just raising money for STAR/PAL and meeting a lot of owners from different organizations, different companies come in and donate money for the kids. I think that the event was beautiful to see everyone bond together and get to know each other,  I think it was great………… makes me feel honored."
©desireeastorga
Seyi Ajirotutu and Zach Boren signing away photo ©desireeastorga
Seyi Ajirotutu  "It's special to be a part. just a small part of helping kids out, also just helping out with the Chargers and helping out with all the different organizations that are present here , I just like to help out and do my part here."
©desiree astorga Mante, Jeromy, Kendal
Kendall Reyes, Manti Te'o and Jeromey Clarey photo ©desireeastorga
The Chargers having a huge turn out with rookies, veterans, sophomores, PR and Community Relations all present with players:
Seyi Ajirotutu, Zach Boren, Jeromey Clary, D.J. Fluker, Kwame Geathers, Corey Liuget, David Johnson, Kendall Reyes, Willie Smith, Manti Te’o, Tourek Williams and even former Linebacker Billy Ray Smith.
Billy Ray Smith ©desireeastorga
Billy Ray Smith with young fan photo ©desireeastorga
Willie Smith  "It's a big thing for me, its my first time being here so didn't really know what event was all about, just heard it was giving back to kids, so just wanting to be apart of any way I can."
Kwame Geathers & counselman ©desireeastorga
Kwame Geathers with SD Council Member, Scott Sherman photo ©desireeastorga
Kwame Geathers "It means a lot to be able to come out and knowing your going to an event that is gonna help someone become better in life and just coming in, doing it and enjoying and having lots of fun."
Zach  Boren & Shelley Zimmerman ©desireeastorga
Ohio State in the house! Zach Boren with Chief Shelley Zimmerman photo ©desireeastorga
Zach Boren  "I love it, back in Ohio State we used to do outreaches all the time and i was really involved with all that , so when i got here the first week I met the outreach people, Chase and everyone, i told them i wanted to be involved right away…….its something I really enjoy doing."
Clarey & Sd Fire ©desireeastorga
Jeromey Clarey with SD Fire photo ©desireeastorga
Police had new job syllabus which included serving lunches, drinks and even counting the proceeds conjured by the athletes and amidst it all a live auctioneer, the PadresMark Grant on the mic as well and even Steve Fisher was on stage showcasing a prize gift earned by his Aztecs all joining forces for kids.
SD SWAT ©desireeastorga
SD SWAT reppin photo ©desireeastorga

Srgt Michael Ramsey, Swat Team for SD Police  "Its actually incredible, it's great to see so many people, volunteers, celebrities and members of the police department just step up with our youth and just bridge that gap to help a program for the city and county of San Diego."
©desireeastorga
SD Policeman slash waiter for the day photo ©desireeastorga
It was truly a proud moment to be a San Diegian watching an entire community rallying all to give back, united for youth, truly a beautiful day with a wonderful cause.


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

Thursday, May 1, 2014

NFL Quick Weekly Wrap Plus



Bans, count downs, cut off dates, Cinco and projections……but who really cares except that in less than a week the NFL draft Round 1 commences. The NBA made world news this week and although this is an NFL column, I can’t not at least brush on what happened, all ears on Tuesday at 11:00 AM tuned in to hear the new NBA commish, Adam Silver's verdict, It went live over every media outlet possible, I think more media attention to this than the missing Malaysian airplane. No needs to even give a link… you all have heard that Donald Sterling is banned for life from the NBA (completely exiled), the max NBA fine of $2.5M and highly urged to sell.

All I can say is the way this went down, really disturbs me, period… It just sits wrong with me. Jason Whitlock article encompassed my views, he nailed it and it’s opened a can of worms which has made every athlete, owner and gm vulnerable with vengeful cling-ons. In addition, the source of why, now don't get me wrong, there were plenty of other legitimate noted times this could have been done straight, in fact he has a renowned checkered past, but do it without TMZ and without the call girl.
Jason Whitlock, definitely always a great read with amazing perspective. Along with an article with former NBA player Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in the Times.
"It's time to look at ourselves — and our collective moral outrage — in the mirror," says  Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.

Calendar Key Dates

May 2 Deadline for Restricted Free Agents to sign Offer Sheets.
May 5 Cinco de Mayo  Cinco
May 7 Deadline for Prior Club to exercise Right of First Refusal to Restricted Free Agents.
May 8-10 2014 NFL Draft, New York City, New York.

Hold On!  Few odds and ends!

2014 NFL Draft: Top 6 picks/total selections
1. Texans (11)
2. Rams (12)
3. Jaguars (11)
4. Browns (10)
5. Raiders (7)
6. Falcons (10)
Headlines, feeds, beat writers, coaches and GM's all  are crazy with  2 extra weeks even the NFL analysis are poking fun at themselves and everyones got their mock draft too.
Two additional weeks of subterfuge, Our experts chat about the extra two weeks before the 2014 NFL Draft and the overanalyzing that has ensued because of the extra time."


Trent Richardson learned more in a week than in a season.
“I’m learning a lot, as much as I’ve learned in this last week, [it's] much more than I learned last year,” Richardson said, via the Colts’ website. “The off-season is very important because you have a chance to vibe with your team, to build that respect, to build that trust and then to build that team chemistry with your offensive line, with your quarterback. Knowing the concept of a play is the biggest thing because when it comes down to it, if you just remember what you’re doing, that’s not good enough. I remembered the playbook last year. I know it now.  I’m learning a lot this year.”
Congratulations to Earl Thomas who becomes the first $10M a year saftey,  Seahawks re-sign long term deal.
While per ESPN,  Teddy Bridgewater purchased an insurance policy while still in school.
  With complete word block, I'm out! Next time I'll be writing we will be starting the selections!   Cheers, Desiree