The Chargers offense has long been exciting to watch. It’s stacked with playmakers like Philip Rivers, Antonio Gates, Keenan Allen Danny Woodhead, and on and on. The same cannot be said for the San Diego defense.
There are a lot of solid to above-average players on that unit, guys like Eric Weddle and Corey Liuget who can impact a Sunday afternoon. But overall the defensive unit has been void of true game-changing playmakers since Shawne Merriman tested positive and injured his knee.
It’s early (in fact it’s outright premature) but the Bolts may have finally found another defensive demon. Rookie linebacker Denzel Perryman came out of college with the reputation of being a vicious hitter. He has not disappointed. Perryman forced a fumble in Green Bay with a wicked blast on Eddie Lacy in the 4th quarter, a play that should have changed the outcome of the game.
“It would have been nice to have that turnover,” said Perryman, who didn’t even know he’d caused the fumble until his teammates pointed it out to him. “It probably would have changed events as far as the game went. Next time we know we’ve just gotta fall on it.”
Fellow linebacker Jeremiah Attaochu, another emerging young star who’s recorded four sacks in three games (including two of Aaron Rodgers) had a chance to grab the ball deep in Packers territory but let it get away from him.
The positive takeaway is it looks like Perryman’s hits will keep on coming. With Manti Te’o likely out again with an injury Perryman will be making his second straight start on Sunday against the Raiders. The rookie from Miami (FL) already has a few highlight reel tackles on his resume, and he’s looking for a whole lot more.
“It feels good, man,” said Perryman. “That’s what I do so I play linebacker.”
Part of the reason Perryman is able to square up his opponents so well is his attitude. The guy craves contact. Another part is he’s short. The average NFL linebacker is 6’2”. Perryman is “only” 5’11”. However, he’s built like a fire hydrant at 240 pounds. Since the average NFL running back is now 5’11” Perryman is one of the few guys who can get under the pads of most opponents to deliver a big blow.
Of course, being labeled as a little guy is not a gift he's not always been happy with.
“I used to complain about my height when I was younger,” said Perryman. “But now I love it.”
If he continues to pound on ball carriers like he is Chargers fans will love it, too.
