Most didn’t expect the San Diego Chargers to make the divisional round playoffs, but the Chargers showed there may be a bright future for a franchise marred by uncertainty
After missing the playoffs since 2009, the San Diego Chargers ended their season on a positive note; even if they did not win it all.
New head coach Mike McCoy and Offensive Coordinator showed just how good the Chargers can be. The offense was ranked fourth in the season this year, and the defense stepped up late in the season, allowing only 257 pass yards a game in their last four contests.
This was a measuring year for San Diego, as they made massive changes in the 2013 offseason. Removing both the head coach, and General manager this past offseason meant they were ready to seek improvements. This was also a big year for Philip Rivers to prove that he does belong in the NFL, and not on the sidelines.
They faired extremely well in a tough division against the Kansas City Chiefs, who were considered one of the best teams half way into the season, and the dangerous Denver Broncos with Peyton Manning. Splitting the series with the Broncos, and sweeping the Chiefs in the regular season proved that the Chargers could play with the very best, and win.
The Chargers even had one of the best rookie wideouts in Keenan Allen this year. Drafted in the 3rd round, Allen provided a sensational start to his NFL season for the Chargers, resulting in 1,046 yards and 8 touchdowns on 71 receptions. With more experience and practice with Rivers, the tandem can become twice as dangerous next year.
Making the divisional round shows promise for the Chargers, and also managing to keep the score close late against the Broncos proves the team is getting closer to becoming the team it was in 2009 when they went 13-3.
Another good offseason for the Chargers in the draft and potential free agent signings could put the team in a much better position to win it all.
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