Fantasy Scouting Report: San Diego Chargers

Bolts from the Blue suggests not starting the Chargers defense, along with other tidbits of info.

Philip Rivers – This is the first week you might want to reconsider starting Rivers in your fantasy league. Denver is fielding the league’s best defense, and part of that reason is the incredible play of Champ Bailey and Brian Dawkins. There will be less mismatches for Philip to exploit than usual.

LaDainian Tomlinson – I’d start him. The Chargers have had issues with ball control and with their running game, and I believe they’ll use Monday night’s game to try to reverse both of those trends. Look for LT to get the ball early and often. He is about as healthy as he’s been since 2007, and eager to prove he’s not done.

Vincent Jackson – I’d never tell you to start a WR that’s going against Champ Bailey, but VJ has had success against him in the past. In 2 games against the Broncos last season he came away with 8 catches for 120 yards, to go along with 30 yards rushing on 2 end-around plays. If you don’t have an obviously better choice, VJ should be okay for this game.

Darren Sproles – Only start him if your league gives points for return yardage. He’s going to rack up a ton of it, because Denver’s special teams has been a weakness and because their offense has been stellar. I doubt he does very much in the offense, as Denver will have somebody following him all over the field.

Chargers D – DO NOT START. Their weaknesses (pass-rush, covering short passes) match up with Denver’s strengths (great at short passes when Orton gets time). Although Clinton Hart wasn’t playing much, his being cut this week will open up some more holes in the secondary.

If you follow the Chargers, then you have to follow Bolts from the Blue.