Chargers at Chiefs: Who to Watch

Three players to keep an eye on Sunday at Arrowhead Stadium

Last time the Chargers played the Chiefs, Kansas City won 33-3 in one of the most embarrassing home losses in San Diego’s NFL history.

Last time the Chargers played the Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City won 19-7 despite the fact they were starting Chase Daniel instead of Alex Smith at quarterback and the Chargers had a chance to clinch a playoff berth with a win.

What I’m saying is the last two years against Kansas City the Chargers have been barbecued and there’s really no reason to believe that will change this time around.

The Chiefs are now leading the AFC Wild Card race and have won six straight games while the Chargers are in the running for the number one overall pick in the NFL Draft. On that positive note let’s take a look at this week’s three players to keep an eye on.

Craig Mager, CB

Brandon Flowers was just placed on season-ending Injured Reserve so the rookie is going to get more playing time behind Jason Verrett, Stevie Williams and Patrick Robinson. Since the Chiefs have Jeremy Maclin and … I’m sure some other guys who play wide receiver I figured hey, let’s give the rookie some prolonged playing time and see if we can get a pleasant surprise.

Darius Philon, DT

Corey Liuget was just placed on season-ending Injured Reserve so the rookie, who just came off the IR-Designated for Return, is going to get more playing time. Philon was actually getting regular reps and playing well before he got hurt so he’s going to get more playing time (especially if Sean Lissemore, who is listed as doubtful, also misses the game with an injury) so I figured hey, let’s give the rookie some prolonged playing time and see if we can get a pleasant surprise.

Tyreek Burwell, OL

D.J. Fluker is questionable with a concussion but let’s face it, the Chargers are going to go deep in to their offensive line rotation again, especially against a team with a pass rush as lethal as the one the Chiefs have. Burwell has gotten some playing time in a reserve role and the chances are pretty good he’ll be out there protecting quarterback Philip Rivers again so I figured hey, let’s give the rookie some prolonged playing time and see if we can get a pleasant surprise.

Derek’s Prediction

That last game at Arrowhead the Chiefs sacked Rivers seven times. When they met three weeks ago they got him three times. Last week against Denver Rivers was sacked four times. If he gets through this game without suffering a collapsed lung it’ll be a win, regardless of what the scoreboard says.

Final Score: Chiefs 37, Chargers 9

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