There are enough storylines in Monday's big game to keep a room full of writers busy for months. We grabbed two of the lesser talented ones and got them to go over some of the main points bettors are talking about.
What has surprised you the most about the Denver Broncos this season?
Jason Logan: Kyle Orton. It’s not that Orton has played out of this world, but he’s been steady in the same mold as Trent Dilfer or Brad Johnson. His defense is going to give him enough kicks at the can and good field position that eventually he’s going to find the end zone. He’s among the Top 10 in QB rating and has seven touchdown passes to just one interception. He’s no Peyton Manning but defenses must respect the Denver passing game.
Ashton Grewal: It’s got to be the defense. Last year Denver’s defense was among the worst in the league. I didn’t think the team had the right parts to make a switch from a 4-3 to a 3-4 front, but defensive coordinator Mike Nolan proved me and a lot of other people wrong.
The new scheme is making the most out of Denver’s skill defenders, particular pass rusher Elvis Dumervil who’s among the league leaders in sacks.
Does LaDainian Tomlinson have any juice left in his legs?
Grewal: It sucks to say this because LT has had such a prolific career, but when you watch him in space, he just doesn’t have the same type of burst – especially to the outside.
Of course, it doesn’t help either that San Diego’s offensive line is better at pass blocking than bowling over defenders in the run game.
Logan: I think there is plenty of juice left in Tomlinson’s legs. It’s just the other things connected to the legs that may be dried up.
The bye week will have done him good and if he’s going to have a breakout game, it will be against the Broncos. He’s rushed for 18 touchdowns and more than 1,300 total yards in 16 career games versus Denver.
If there is juice left in L.T., the Chargers will squeeze out every drop Monday night.
San Diego loves to air it out and put up a lot of points, while Denver plays more of a cautious style. Which type of game will we see Monday night?
Logan: I think San Diego is going to pick on the little guys in this game. The Chargers have tall receiving options with guys like Vincent Jackson and Antonio Gates. Denver’s corners are all under or just pushing six feet. Jackson is finally having his breakout season and Gates remains one of the best tight ends in the game.
Plus, Philip Rivers loves to play against the Broncos. While Jay Cutler may be in Chicago, he’ll find a new kid to bully in Kyle Orton.
Grewal: I see Denver running the ball early and often. This team will come up with 15-play drives that will eat up the time of possession and keep San Diego’s offense off the field. The Broncos’ revamped secondary will be good enough to break up the Bolts' deep pass attempts.
Final score prediction:
Logan: San Diego 26, Denver 13
Grewal: Denver 20, San Diego 17