Nov 20, 2011; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler (6) looks to pass during the second half against the San Diego Chargers at Soldier Field. The Bears defeated the Chargers 31-10. Mandatory Credit: Rob Grabowski-US Presswire
The second 2013 preseason game is upon us and next up is the San Diego Chargers. The last time the Bears played the Chargers, they lost Jay Cutler for the season with a broken hand. That was the season when the Bears looked as if they were going to make the playoffs with a 7-3 record and lost the next 5 out of 6 games to end the season 8-8. Say what you want about Jay Cutler, but without him the Bears just can’t win.
This week we asked our usual 5 questions to Ernie Padaon, lead editor of Bolt Beat, the San Diego Chargers Fansided site.
Is this season going to be Philip Rivers last in a Chargers uniform?
Nov 20, 2011; Chicago, IL, USA; San Diego Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers (17) calls a play against the Chicago Bears during the first quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Rob Grabowski-USA TODAY Sports
I fully expect Philip Rivers to be the quarterback for the Chargers next season, unless for some reason we have a top 5 pick. Can’t see that happening with a Philip Rivers led team, so he will be around. He didn’t have much help around him last season. He had no offensive line and his receivers really didn’t give him much help getting the football. The offensive line has been upgraded and the receivers are better than last year… at least it was better when Danario Alexander was healthy. Still might be better than what we started with last season.
After the first preseason game, how do you feel about Mike McCoy’s performance?
Aug 8, 2013; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Chargers head coach Mike McCoy during the first half against the Seattle Seahawks at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
I am very impressed with how Mike McCoy has been handling the roster and the team. He is calm and handles the media well. He has full control of the team and will definitely be an upgrade over Norv Turner.
Which Rookies or Free Agents are you most looking forward to watching against the Bears?
Aug 8, 2013; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Chargers linebacker Manti Te
Our top 3 picks in this years draft are all impressive. Even the 5th and 6th round pick can contribute this year. D.J. Fluker will be starting on the right side of the line and will be an upgrade on our offensive line. Manti Te’o will start in the middle of the defense and could make a huge impact for the team. Keenan Allen will be getting a lot of reps with the injuries to the wide receivers in camp and could be a nice steal in the 3rd round.
What is the Chargers most favorable and unfavorable matchup against the Bears?
September 18, 2011; New Orleans, LA, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler (6) reaches to recover his fumble after being sacked in the backfield by New Orleans Saints free safety Malcolm Jenkins (27) during the second half at the Louisiana Superdome. The Saints defeated the Bears 30-13. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
I can’t say that I know too much about the Bears, but I know that San Diego fans have a lot of hate for Jay Cutler. I look forward to seeing our young defensive front attack and get after Cutler. We have an underrated front 7 and can really get after the quarterback.
What is your prediction for the game, including a final score?
Prediction for a preseason game? I just hope we all leave without any major injuries. Final score: Bears 27 – Chargers – 20
I want to thank Ernie Padaon from Bolt Beat for taking the time to answer our questions about the Preseason matchup against the Chargers. Make sure you head on over to Bolt Beat for all the latest info and breaking news of the Bears Preseason opponent San Diego Chargers.