The regular season is finally here. After a long offseason filled with new pickups on both teams, we have finally made it to Week 1. It’s only right to get this year started with an AFC West showdown. There are high expectations for both teams, which make these divisional matchups that much more important. The Chargers lost two of their last 3 divisional games in 2021, including Week 18 against the Las Vegas Raiders. That cost them a chance at a playoff berth. However, week 1 is an opportunity to make things right.
Coming up short
The fact the Chargers were so close last year stings for players and fans. Based on how the playoffs went, Chargers players felt anyone had a chance. Who knows, maybe the Chargers could’ve made a run like the Bengals did if they were able to get in the tournament. But enough of talking about what if’s, 2022 is an entire new year. Furthermore, this is not the same team from 2021. There have been a lot of moves made in the AFC West this offseason. With the addition of Russell Wilson to the Broncos along with a number of different moves, this could be one of the toughest divisions in NFL history.
New Additions
The Las Vegas Raiders have added Devante Adams on offense and Chandler Jones on defense. Adams was Derek Carr’s college teammate at Fresno State so they already have chemistry on the field. Josh McDaniels, long time Offensive Coordinator for the Patriots, is now the Raiders Head Coach. While Derek Carr is viewed as 4th best QB behind Patrick Mahomes, Russell Wilson, and Justin Herbert, he is far from a mediocre. Carr is tied with Rams QB Matthew Stafford for the most game winning drives (30) since he entered the league in 2014. He is eager to prove the Raiders can be a contender this year.
Ready for Week 1
In my previous article, I notated all the free agent acquisitions the Chargers picked up in the offseason. Brandon Staley made sure to address all levels of the defense. He made further emphasis on improving the run game. Newly added Khalil Mack is feeling better than ever going in to this season via Chargers Content on Instagram. Furthermore Justin Herbert is dying to get back on the field as well. See the post below in regards to his quotes going into this game via thescore on Instagram.
Understanding what is at stake in a competitive division, the Chargers look to make a statement in week 1 against their longtime division rival.
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