Tag: Chargers preseason

Chargers vs. Rams: Takeaways from first half of preseason opener

Here are a few quick takeaways from the first half of play between the Chargers and Rams.

The Rams and Chargers are currently tied up in the preseason opener by the score of 14-14.

Here are a few quick takeaways from the first half of play:

Chris Rumph showing growth

One of the storylines of the summer was Rumph’s added weight and strength, which has shown up on the field. On top of his athleticism, more power is showing in Rumph’s pass rushes and when setting the edge against the run. He currently has four tackles, two tackles for loss, a sack, and a quarterback hit. He is showing to be a reliable rotational edge defender behind Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack.

Some promise along the interior part of the defensive line

Sebastian Joseph-Day and Austin Johnson aren’t playing, but the guys fighting for spots on the back end of the depth chart are, and three, in particular, have stood out, with those being Morgan Fox, Breiden Fehoko, and Christian Covington. Fox showed plenty of promise as a pass rusher. Meanwhile, Fehoko and Covington made a few positive plays against the run.

Joshua Kelley is flashing

Kelley has been one of the summer standouts in camp, and he has carried that momentum over to the playing field, looking to win the second running back job. Kelley looks more explosive and powerful carrying the football. He has three rushes for 16 yards (5.3 yards per carry). In addition, he has been comfortable catching the football out of the backfield, currently with three catches for 28 yards.

Chargers vs. Rams preseason Week 1: How to watch, listen and stream online

Find out how to tune in to watch the Chargers take on the Rams in the preseason opener.

The Chargers are set to begin their three-game preseason slate.

Today, they kick it off in a bout against the Rams at SoFi Stadium, both teams’ home.

Here is everything you need to know so you can tune in:

Game Information

Los Angeles Chargers vs. Los Angeles Rams

Saturday, Aug. 13 — 7:00 p.m. PT

SoFi Stadium — Inglewood, CA

Television

The game will be televised on NFL Network and on KCBS-TV in Los Angeles and Orange County. Noah Eagle, Dan Fouts, LaDainian Tomlinson will have the call.

Radio

ALT FM-98.7 (English broadcast)

FM 105.5/94.3 (Spanish broadcast)

Streaming

FuboTV (try it for free).

5 defensive players to watch in the Chargers preseason opener vs. Rams

Spotlighting five defensive players to keep an eye on for the Chargers when they take on the Rams.

The Chargers roster will begin to take shape this Saturday when preseason play kicks off against the Rams.

Here are five players on the defensive side of the ball to keep an eye on.

5 offensive players to watch in the Chargers preseason opener vs. Rams

Spotlighting five offensive players to keep an eye on for the Chargers when they take on the Rams.

The Chargers roster will begin to take shape this Saturday when the preseason kicks off against the Rams.

Here are five players on the offensive side of the ball who could help their case for a final roster spot.

QB Easton Stick

Brandon Staley gave Stick rave reviews for his development as a pure passer this offseason after LA’s intrasquad scrimmage. Stick was then named the co-backup quarterback with Chase Daniel on the unofficial depth chart. The roster is tighter than ever and keeping only two quarterbacks would open a much-needed spot for talent elsewhere, but it sounds like Stick will make it hard for the team to do anything except keep three. I doubt he’ll end up winning the QB2 role over Daniel, but I do want to see this purported passing development in the preseason.

RB Larry Rountree III

Listed as the third running back on the unofficial depth chart, Rountree needs a strong preseason, especially with Isaiah Spiller listed as RB4. Joshua Kelley has taken the most noticeable step up in training camp so far, and Spiller will have a sizable role even if he’s not the bona fide RB2. With a fullback on the roster, keeping only 3 RBs would probably be ideal. That leaves Rountree as the odd man out. He’s struggled with fumbles so far in training camp and roster spots are tight. He does add value on special teams as a first-teamer there, but a poor preseason could lose him a final roster spot.

FB Zander Horvath

It was a bit of a surprise to see Horvath listed ahead of Gabe Nabers as the co-starters at fullback, but it seems like from the rest of the depth chart that the reason for that is alphabetical order more than anything else. Still, the rookie has shown a much more versatile skill set than Nabers thus far. Special teams coordinator Ryan Ficken has said Horvath’s experience at linebacker in college will be a help in that area and he’s flashed surprising receiving ability. It’s still a fierce competition, but all signs point to Horvath gaining a lead now that pads have come on. Can he keep it going in live game action?

TE Hunter Kampmoyer

The Chargers have kept four tight ends each of the last few years, but the numbers of the current roster make it difficult to find room for a fourth one this season. Gerald Everett, Donald Parham, and Tre’ McKitty are all safe. But McKitty is also listed as the backup fullback, which seems to suggest he’ll be taking over Stephen Anderson’s H-back role from last season. That could maybe leave room for a fourth tight end, and Kampmoyer has been by far the best one. He’s also a starter on the kickoff team, which makes it sound like he’s closer to earning a roster spot than not. How he plays at his natural position in the preseason will likely make the decision for everyone.

OL Brenden Jaimes

I don’t think Jaimes is at risk of missing the team, but I do think he’s the ninth offensive linemen at this point. Will Clapp is your backup center. The loser of the right tackle competition will be the swing tackle. Jamaree Salyer has all but locked down the swing guard spot. Jaimes has guard/tackle versatility, and the staff still seems high on his developmental potential. But Ryan Hunter has arguably outperformed him this preseason and could push for that OL9 spot. There is some concern about the depth along the interior offensive line, so a strong preseason from Jaimes could assuage some concerns. If not, we could discuss the offensive line as a depth need when next year’s draft rolls around.

Chargers’ pre-preseason 53-man roster projection

Following the first two weeks of training camp, here are our predictions for the Chargers’ 53-man roster.

The Chargers have gone through 10 days of practices and will kick off their preseason this weekend against the Rams.

So it feels like a good time for another 53-man roster projection.

Los Angeles has 90 players on its roster. They must be down to 85 players by Aug. 16, to 80 players by Aug. 23, and 53 by Aug. 30.

Here’s our latest projection:

Quarterbacks (3): Justin Herbert, Chase Daniel, Easton Stick

In a perfect world, the Chargers keep two quarterbacks and save one of those roster spots for another position group. But in reality, I believe they elect to keep three for the sake of continuity, and they could envision Stick being Herbert’s backup once Daniel retires.

Running backs (4): Austin Ekeler, Isaiah Spiller, Joshua Kelley, Larry Rountree III

There has not been much to suggest who has the leg up on the battle to become Ekeler’s backup. But once preseason play begins, we will have a larger sample size to gauge. In my initial projections, I had Kevin Marks Jr. making the team, but he nor the other undrafted free agent, Leddie Brown, have generated any buzz. That could change in the coming weeks.

Fullbacks (1): Zander Horvath

The fullbacks haven’t gotten many opportunities to shine in camp up to this point, but Horvath has stood out more as a pass-catcher.

Wide receivers (5): Keenan Allen, Mike Williams, Josh Palmer, DeAndre Carter, Jalen Guyton

No changes here except for where the receivers should sit on the depth chart. Palmer has played his way into the third wide receiver role, standing out with his ability to get consistently open and catch everything. Carter, who was seen as just a return man, has surpassed Guyton, given he has looked sharp catching the football and has scored more touchdowns than any pass-catcher during team period drills. Guyton has not been given many opportunities, but he has still flashed his speed.

Tight ends (3): Gerald Everett, Donald Parham, Tre’ McKitty

No changes here. However, Hunter Kampmoyer has made his case to the team to keep four tight ends. Kampmoyer has gotten reps with the first team offense and has worked as Drue Tranquill’s replacement on special teams.

Offensive line (9): Rashawn Slater, Matt Feiler, Corey Linsley, Zion Johnson, Trey Pipkins III, Storm Norton, Jamaree Salyer, Brenden Jaimes, Will Clapp

No changes here.

Defensive line (6): Sebastian Joseph-Day, Austin Johnson, Morgan Fox, Otito Ogbonnia, Breiden Fehoko, Jerry Tillery

Joseph-Day, Johnson, and Fox are pretty much set as the starters. The real battle here is on the back end, where I’m leaving Christian Covington off the projection this time around. Fehoko has had a very strong training camp and brings more as a run defender than Covington or Tillery. In addition, the quotes about Tillery have seemed increasingly pessimistic, which could lead to Covington snagging that spot instead.

Edge rusher (4): Joey Bosa, Khalil Mack, Chris Rumph II, Jamal Davis II

Bosa, Mack, and Rumph are secure. But with Kyle Van Noy primarily working at linebacker, a fourth spot is up for grabs between Davis, Ty Shelby, and Emeke Ebgule. I lean Davis because he’s been the most consistently solid throughout camp. Brandon Staley has emphasized consistency as one of the team’s main evaluation criteria this offseason.

Linebacker (5): Kyle Van Noy, Drue Tranquill, Kenneth Murray Jr., Troy Reeder, Nick Niemann

Amen Ogbongbemiga and Damon Lloyd both have compelling cases here, but it’s hard to find a spot for them unless the Chargers are carrying six linebackers, possibly at the expense of a sixth defensive lineman. Van Noy, Tranquill, Murray, and Reeder will all see extensive time. Niemann is the best special teamer of the remaining trio, which gives him the edge.

Cornerback (5): JC Jackson, Asante Samuel Jr., Bryce Callahan, Michael Davis, Deane Leonard

I could see the Chargers keep six corners, as both Tevaughn Campbell and Ja’Sir Taylor are tough cuts here. Davis has struggled in camp, but the financial investment the team has made in him makes me think he’s still a lock for the roster. Leonard has been the star of training camp, even working with the first team defense in stretches. Campbell and Taylor have been a bit more up and down, but Campbell has veteran knowledge of the system and Taylor has been receiving one-on-one coaching from Brandon Staley.

Safety (5): Derwin James Jr., Nasir Adderley, JT Woods, Mark Webb Jr., Alohi Gilman

I’m confident in five safeties making the team. The battle is for playing time – James and Adderley are the clear starters, but James also moves around a ton. Woods is the favorite to take over the two high roles when James moves down into the box, but Webb has been getting first-team reps while James continues negotiating his contract extension. Gilman has been quieter but did get first-team reps to open camp. I still think recent camp standout Raheem Layne is more likely to end up as a premium practice squad addition, but a strong showing in the preseason could push Webb and Gilman.

Specialists (3): K Dustin Hopkins, P J.K. Scott, LS Josh Harris

No changes made here.

Chargers sound comfortable keeping 3 quarterbacks on 53-man roster

Don’t be surprised if Justin Herbert, Chase Daniel and Easton Stick all make the Chargers 53-man roster.

From the beginning of Chargers training camp, the battle for the backup quarterback spot did not seem like it would become so much of a storyline, but here we are.

Chase Daniel was seen to me as the bonafide backup to Justin Herbert because of his experience in this league and the knowledge with Joe Lombardi’s offense.

However, Easton Stick came into the preseason with the mentality that he was not to be forgotten. Not only did Stick flash with his athleticism, but he looked improved as a passer.

Stick’s outings have raised many to believe that the team could indeed carry three quarterbacks as opposed to two, and those making the decision believe it’s a strong possibility.

“Yeah, I think so,” Brandon Staley said. “I think that could happen. I think we’re going to see over the next couple of days. But I definitely think that that’s a possibility, and we’ll dive into those specifics here in the next couple days. But I think both of those guys are assets for our football team.”

On the TV broadcast Saturday against the Seahawks, Tom Telesco that he would prefer to keep all three quarterbacks.

The decision to keep three quarterbacks when depth at other positions would be much more beneficial to the Chargers is puzzling to a handful, but it would make sense.

Given the uncertainty of COVID-19, keeping only two quarterbacks is a risky move, especially if there was a major outbreak.

Los Angeles could practice squad one of them, but the likelihood of either of them clearing waivers is slim. A team would love to bring in a veteran like Daniel, while another would instantly fall in love with Stick’s traits.

Should this come to fruition at 1 pm PT on Tuesday, Sept. 31, Daniel would likely be the main backup and dress on game days.

Twitter reacts to Chargers’ preseason Week 3 loss to Seahawks

Despite the Chargers’ preseason finale having very little significance, those on social media still had their fair share of reactions.

The Seattle Seahawks defeated the Los Angeles Chargers, 27-0, in the final preseason game for both teams at Lumen Field on Saturday night.

Despite the loss, this game had nothing to do with the scoreboard but more so the evaluation process, as head coach Brandon Staley and company now put together the 53-man roster.

Regardless of the outcome, Twitter still had their reactions from this contest.

Everything we know about Chargers’ loss to Seahawks in preseason finale

Recapping the Chargers’ preseason finale against the Seahawks.

To cap off the preseason, the Chargers were shut out by the Seahawks by the score of 27-0.

To recap Saturday’s matchup, here is everything we know:

It was over when….

Cody Barton got to Chase Daniel untouched to knock the football loose, and Marquise Blair was there to catch it in the air and take it back for six. Following that, the Chargers had no answer on both sides of the ball.

Keys of the game

It was another lackluster performance by the offense, as they only totaled 157 yards.

The offensive line gave up five sacks.

Only one field goal was attempted, coming in the second quarter by Tristan Vizcaino, which was missed from 47 yards out.

The two teams combined for 19 penalties, some of which were unnecessary.

3 stars of the game

LB Nick Niemann: 13 total tackles, 1 sack, tackle for loss

EDGE Chris Rumph: 4 tackles. 3 tackles for loss, 2 QB hits, 1 sack

RB Larry Rountree III: 6 carries, 27 yards, 2 catches, 8 yards

Quick-hitters

Neither Easton Stick or Chase Daniel did anything standout to separate themselves from one another. Both quarterbacks had their highs and lows, but they weren’t given any favors as the offensive line was manhandled for the majority of the night. At this point, I wouldn’t be surprised to see the team carry three signal-callers.

When he fully recovers, Justin Jackson will likely resume his role as the second running back to Austin Ekeler but Rountree is the one who did enough to be given a decent-sized role with his performances. Joshua Kelley, on the other hand, was inefficient running the football. Kelley could very well be on the chopping block.

The offensive line struggled as a whole to give both quarterbacks time to throw and create any lanes in the running game. However, it was Trey Pipkins who struggled the most, as he gave up a sack and a few pressures, along with committing a pair of false start penalties. Pipkins didn’t do anything in the summer to help himself to be the swing tackle, which is why he could very well be on his way out.

Looking to solidify the final wide receiver spot, it was Michael Bandy who made his case, catching five of his seven targets for 27 yards. K.J. Hill, Joe Reed and Jason Moore did not suit up for the game.

There wasn’t anyone from the interior part of the defensive line who separated themselves. Undrafted free agent Forrest Merrill flashed here and there, but we didn’t see much action from the other guys up front. Linval Joseph, Jerry Tillery, Justin Jones and Christian Covington but who fills the other two spots remains to be seen.

The lack of push from the defensive line led to the Seahawks having plenty of success on the ground, but neither did the slew of missed tackles from the second and third level.

Speaking of missed tackles, Brandon Facyson had a couple in the open field, as well an underwhelming performance in coverage. Facyson was slated to serve as the main backup, but his showing left a lot to be desired.

Kemon Hall, on the other hand, was a bright spot in the secondary.

The kicking battle was one of the main storylines, but given the lack of offensive production there wasn’t a lot of action in that department. Michael Badgley had the slight leg up entering the game, but Vizcaino’s missed field goal in the second quarter might’ve solidified the coach’s decision.

The score in preseason games does not matter. However, you’re able to evaluate team’s depth charts and for the Chargers, they’re lacking that at vital positions, specifically along the offensive line. It’ll be interesting to see if they dip into the free agency pool.

What’s next?

The Chargers will need to have their 53-man roster finalized by this upcoming Tuesday. Los Angeles opens the regular season against The Washington Football Team on Sept. 12 at 10 am PT.

Live tweet updates from Chargers vs. Seahawks

Stay locked in with coverage from the preseason matchup between the Chargers and Seahawks.

Kickoff is nearly moments away, as the Chargers will visit the Seahawks for the final preseason matchup of 2021. You can find all the information you need to know here.

Get the latest updates from the game with our live tweets below:

How to watch, listen, stream Chargers vs. Seahawks

Everything you need to know to tune in for the Chargers’ preseason finale against the Seahawks.

The Chargers wrap up the preseason with a matchup against the Seahawks tonight.

Here’s everything you need to know so that way you can tune in.

Game Information

Los Angeles Chargers vs. Seattle Seahawks

Saturday, Aug. 28 — 7:00 p.m. PT

Lumen Field — Seattle, WA

Television

The game will be nationally televised on NFL Network and on KCBS-TV in Los Angeles and San Diego. Spero Dedes, LaDainian Tomlinson, Dan Fouts will have the call.

Radio

ALT FM-98.7 (English broadcast)

FM 105.5/94.3 (Spanish broadcast)

Streaming

NFL Game Pass

FuboTV (try it for free)

Social Media

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