Chargers vs. Saints PS Game #2 Analysis

[Topcat]

One of the takeaways from the Chargers vs. Saints game for me is that our pass pro continues to be spotty. In our ground game, when you try to go up the gut with no extra blocking (fullback, pulling guard, TE) vs. a good run-defense like the Saints, they'll stack the middle of the box and swarm over you. We did have some success going outside the tackles, especially with a lead blocker or two. Here's a decent run by JJ and a nice lead block by HH: (Highlight vid: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AekQyHXGCxo)

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[Topcat]

Pass pro had some bad moments, and it's not all on the O-line. On this play, Ekkie (circled) is supposed to protect vs. the blitz on the right side. Instead of staying on Tyrod's flank, he dives into the middle between Scho and Feeney and gets buried uselessly, while a Saint rusher has a clean shot at Tyrod. (next photo)

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[Topcat]

So now, Ekkie, instead of being a help to Tyrod, is tangled up in the pile while the rusher hurries Tyrod into an incomplete:

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[Topcat]

On another running play, JJ is supposed to hit the spot between our TE and OT on the right side. Culkin, (circled), unfortunately, instead of boxing out the defender to the outside, allows him to slip inside and trip up JJ for a loss.(next photo)

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[Topcat]

Here's where Culkin loses it:

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[Topcat]

Later on, it's Tevi who allows outside pressure to hurry Kordell into an incomplete:

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[Topcat]

Here's one of the prettiest plays of the game. JJ takes the pitch, sweeps to the left with Pip and Watt out in front blocking. They both complete their blocks, springing JJ for a nice gainer and first down. Almost reminds me of the old LT days. We need more plays like this than the mindless up the gut stuff. If we can just run more plays like this and short passes, the inside ground game should open up:

[Topcat]

Here's a play I thought worked well. Pope stays in to protect Jones's blind side, then chips the Saint DE to give Pip some help, then continues out into the flats in case Jones needs an outlet. Jones instead sees Culkin open deeper and completes the pass. Good blocking here, though Feeney fell down. Notice Q-berry at center. He played most of game at C.

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[Topcat]

On Cardale's TD pass to Patton, fortunately he got the ball out just before the outside pressure got to him. Once again, Pip lets his man blow by him:

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[Topcat]

On the defensive side of the ball, here's that sack of Hill by Tillery, who had a great get-off--so quick, he leaves the O-lineman reaching helplessly:

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[Topcat]

On that sweet punt return by Pope to the house, after catching it, he makes just a tiny little juke that leaves the gunner sprawling in the turf, while Pope then turns on the jets. Great vision. Looks like Pope may be a keeper.

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[blueman]

Awesome breakdowns Topper, thanks!