Coach Norv Turner has kept players focused on improving their own performances as the Chargers finish up the preseason.
“We have been working on our self yesterday and today,” Turner said. “We are working on things that we will use and need in the first part of the regular season. Tomorrow we will do our preparation for the 49ers game.”
The OL allowed six sacks against the Vikings on Friday. FB Le’Ron McClain explained significant work has been done in the past two days to get the OL on the same page. “You want to have your guys up there in a good groove together,” McClain said.
The OL's poor play also hurt the running game, which is last in the league at 2.4 yards per carry in preseason. “We want to be 4.2 a carry,” McClain said. “We are trying to get to that.”
Willie looks for love: WR Michael Willie (undrafted, Arizona State) appears to have a shot at making the 53-man roster after WR Roscoe Parrish (free agent, Bills) was released Monday. “I hope Turner, you know, falls in love with me,” Willie said. “I am going to keep doing what I have been doing and try to get some more touchdowns.” The final receiver spot will likely be between Willie and incumbent WR-KR Richard Goodman.
Gilchrist behind: CB Marcus Gilchrist has missed significant time with a hamstring injury. “He is five weeks behind in getting ready for preparation for the season,” Turner said.
CB Shareece Wright and Quentin Jammer have also recently missed practices with hamstring issues. The trio represent three fourths of the CBs who are virtually guaranteed to be on the final roster. Injury concerns may lead to a fifth CB being kept. DeAndre Presley (free agent, Appalachian State), who had an interception Friday, would be the leading candidate to be the extra CB.
Will Rivers play: QB Philip Rivers sat out Friday’s preseason game against the Vikings. Turner hasn't decided if Rivers will play Thursday against the 49ers. “We are going to hold off on making that decision.” Turner said. “I would anticipate we play our starting groups, you know, a good bit.”
Injury updates: RB Curtis Brinkley (strain), LT Jared Gaither (back spasms), DT Antonio Garay (left foot), CB Marcus Gilchrist (hamstring), Rex Hadnot (knee), RB Ryan Mathews (clavicle), TE Dante Rosario (unknown) and ILB Demorrio Williams (unknown) worked out on the side and did not practice. Others not practicing: WR Vincent Brown (ankle), C Nick Hardwick (concussion) and OLB Melvin Ingram (thigh). Hadnot was a new addition to the non-participants list. Turner said he expects Hadnot to be fine. CB Quentin Jammer (hamstring) has been limited for the past two days.
What’s next: The Chargers will conduct their final full practice of preseason on Tuesday. All practices are now closed to public.
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