The Chargers prepare for a crucial Week 5 matchup against the Commanders. Both teams have a lot at stake, and the spotlight will be on the Chargers’ defense, especially their safety rotation.
Chargers’ Deep Safety Rotation
The Chargers have established one of the deepest safety rooms in the NFL. Recent snap counts indicate that they utilize multiple safeties effectively. Derwin James, known for his durability, played every defensive snap in the previous game against the Giants.
- Asante Samuel Jr. logged 51 snaps, representing 67% of the plays.
- Both Nasir Adderley and Elijah Molden contributed similarly, with Molden returning from injury.
Defensive coordinator Derek Minter emphasized the benefits of rotating safeties. He mentioned, “One guy playing 70 snaps versus two guys playing maybe equal makes a difference. This approach helps the team manage a lengthy, grueling season.”
The team’s chemistry is strong, as safety Gilman pointed out. He expressed confidence in their ability to work together. “We’re all ballers and can contribute in various ways,” Gilman stated.
The Commanders’ Key Challenge
In their upcoming game, the Chargers will face a formidable opponent in the Commanders, specifically tackling Laremy Tunsil. Tunsil is recognized as one of the league’s elite left tackles.
Tunsil, traded to the Commanders from the Texans this offseason, has a remarkable PFF pass-blocking grade of 87.0, ranking fourth among tackles. He consistently excels, having not ranked lower than fourth in pass-block grading since 2019.
- Tunsil finished 2022 with a league-leading pass-block grade of 91.7.
- Dupree, a key player for the Chargers, acknowledged Tunsil’s skills, comparing their upcoming matchup to “iron sharpening iron.”
With Dupree set to line up primarily against Tunsil, the matchup is critical. Meanwhile, Tuli Tuipulotu seeks to replicate his standout performance, where he recorded four sacks in Week 4 against the Giants. His growth is noted by Dupree, who called him a potential “household name” in the making.
As both teams gear up for this important game, the Chargers will look to capitalize on their defensive strength and depth while facing one of the best left tackles in the league.
