Game by Game: Week 14 Part 1

OK folks…the fantasy playoffs are here.  Sure, some have started already, but for the majority of you, this is the first round.  Major bragging rights at stake.  Only one game on Thursday, so let’s grab a quick look…

Oakland Raiders @ San Diego Chargers

The last time these teams squared off was week 4 in Oaktown where the Chargers walked away with a 28-18 victory.  It also marked the first 100+ yard rushing game of the year for LaDainian Tomlinson, much to the relief of his owners.  As a matter of fact, Tomlinson has rushed for over 100 yards in 4 of his last 5 games against the Raiders, and I don’t see this one being much different (check today’s Daily Stat).  Sure, in the last contest, the Raiders held him in check for most of the day until he broke a late game 41 yard TD run, but with the Raiders run defense ranking 29th in the league and allowing almost 160 YPG on the ground, I don’t see them holding up this week.  This should be a very favorable matchup, which is good considering Oakland’s pass D (8th in the league) is its strength.  Temper your expectations for Phillip Rivers and the rest of the Chargers receivers, but don’t count them out.  I’m sure Vincent Jackson is looking for a rebound game, and Antonio Gates is always tough.  For the Raiders, this could be an interesting stat game.  They rocked the Broncos 2 weeks ago and fell back apart against the Chiefs.  But the Chargers aren’t boasting a very good defense this year, so it could be a bit of a surprise.  Look for the Raiders to start pounding against a run defense that allows 107 YPG on the ground with the tandem of Justin Fargas and Darren McFadden, and hope that opens things up for the passing game.  Jamarcus Russell has the arm, he just needs to find his receivers.  The fact that San Diego ranks 31st against the pass could work in his favor.  The Good:  LaDainian Tomlinson, Justin Fargas  The OK:  Phillip Rivers, Antonio Gates, Vincent Jackson, Chris Chambers, Justin Fargas, Darren McFadden, Zach Miller  The Ugly:  Jamarcus Russell, Malcolm Floyd, Johnnie Lee Higgins