AFC West Season Predictions: Midseason Review

Sep 20, 2015; Cincinnati, OH, USA; A general view of San Diego Chargers wide receiver Steve Johnson (not pictured) helmet during the game of the San Diego Chargers against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paul Brown Stadium. The Bengals won 24-19. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

San Diego Chargers

Pre-Season Prediction: 9-7

Current Record: 2-7

Revised Record Prediction: 4-12

My Take: Wow, was I wrong about this team. I made a bad prediction, but for reasons that many may not have

guessed. By no means is this a bad football team, but there’s a myriad of factors that play into their current predicament.  A rash of injuries to many of their starters (including ex-Bronco Orlando Franklin) and an inability to close out games are the main culprits for the Chargers dismal 2015 record.  It seems like every year there’s one team that is expected to compete for a playoff spot only to fall flat and finish with a handful of wins.

Next to the Ravens, I can’t think of another team that has underachieved more this season than the Chargers. Despite some of the issues I listed above, I still didn’t expect this team to fare so poorly. It’s hard to see this team taking making a late season rally due to the current circumstances surrounding the team.

You have to wonder that with a possible move to Los Angeles and the current season in such a sharp decline if team ownership will hit the “re-set button” after the season. A change in scenery could signal a change in coaching and playing philosophy.

Next: Has Jamaal Charles Lost a Step?