Run defense on the decline

The Chargers look good on paper against the pass, but that’s because their opponents aren’t resorting to the air as much. Instead, they’re exploiting a clear weakness on the defense, which is on the ground.

Cam Newton and the hard-running Patriots made life difficult for Los Angeles, carrying the ball for 165 yards and two touchdowns. In their last three games, L.A. has combined to allow 144.3 yards per game.

The Bolts struggled to get up front, allowing clean holes for the ball carriers and defenders were late to rally to the ball or simply looked uninspired to make plays.

Without linebacker Denzel Perryman, rookie Kenneth Murray appeared to be the only one of the defensive side of the ball who wanted to play. Murray finished the game with 14 tackles (12 solo), two tackles for loss and the team’s only sack.