Philip Rivers Will Be X-Factor For San Diego Chargers In Week 8

By Brendan Patel on October 22, 2014

The San Diego Chargers have a huge division game against the Denver Broncos on Thursday night. Both teams have looked exceptionally strong to start the season, and this could be a pivotal game to determine who will surge ahead in the AFC West. The Broncos have been playing lights out, with Peyton Manning still looking like an elite quarterback and the defense showing a huge improvement from last season. The Chargers will have their hands full trying to contain the Broncos’ high-scoring offense, and will have to rely on Philip Rivers to sustain long drives to give the defense a rest. If Rivers is able to have a big game, then the Chargers will have a good chance to win.

The Chargers played the Broncos better than most in their three meetings last season. Their biggest strength was their ability to extend drives and keep Manning and the offense off of the field. They ran the ball effectively and relied on Rivers to make key throws when it mattered most. This kept their defense fresh and decreased the amount of plays that the Broncos were able to run.

There is no doubt that the Chargers will try to employ a similar game plan this time around. In order to do so, Rivers must continue playing at an MVP level to keep the offense rolling. The Broncos have added a lot of talent on defense and have an impressive secondary to go along with a good pass rush. Rivers will need to make the necessary adjustments at the line and get the ball out of his hands quickly. He has weapons who can make plays if he is able to get them the ball.

Most of the Chargers’ success this season has been a credit to Rivers playing at such a high level. The team will only go as far as he will take them, and this game is no different. Rivers will have to step up and make big plays, which he is capable of doing, to give the Chargers a chance.