Game: Madden NFL 25 (XBOX)
Roster: Madden04
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Draft Classes: 2004
2003 SAN DIEGO CHARGERS: SEASON PREVIEW
BOLTS OF LIGHTNING: CAN SCHOTTENHEIMER'S SQUAD SHOCK THE NFL?
The dog days of summer are fading, and with them, the memories of last season's disappointments for the San Diego Chargers. After finishing a mediocre 8-8 in 2002, the Bolts enter the 2003 campaign with renewed vigor and something to prove in the competitive AFC West.
Head coach Marty Schottenheimer, entering his second year at the helm in San Diego, has been blunt about his expectations. "We're not here to be average," he told reporters during the final week of training camp. "This organization, these fans, they deserve a winner. We've put in the work, now it's time to see results."
The spotlight shines brightest on quarterback Drew Brees, who enters a pivotal third NFL season. After starting all 16 games last year with mixed results (3,284 yards, 17 TDs, 16 INTs), the former Purdue standout knows this could be a make-or-break year for his career as a starter.
"I've learned a lot about what it takes to succeed at this level," Brees said. "The game has slowed down for me. I'm seeing defenses better, making quicker decisions. I feel ready to take that next step."
He'll have help from superstar running back LaDainian Tomlinson, who has already established himself as one of the league's premier backs after just two seasons. "LT" amassed 1,683 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns in 2002 and appears poised for another monster campaign behind an improved offensive line.
Perhaps the most intriguing storyline of camp has been the emergence of undrafted rookie tight end Antonio Gates. The former Kent State basketball player hasn't played organized football since high school but has displayed remarkable natural ability.
"He's a special athlete," offensive coordinator Cam Cameron said. "His background in basketball translates well to the tight end position – he understands spacing, body control, and has tremendous hands."
On defense, the addition of safety Kwamie Lassiter from Arizona should bolster a secondary that struggled at times last season. Cornerback Quentin Jammer, the fifth overall pick in 2002, looks more comfortable after a full NFL season under his belt.
The defensive front seven remains anchored by linebacker Donnie Edwards, who led the team with 129 tackles last year after returning to his hometown team. "This defense has a chip on its shoulder," Edwards said. "We've got something to prove."
The Chargers open their season at home against the Oakland Raiders, a fitting test against last year's AFC champions. The schedule doesn't get any easier, with matchups against Pittsburgh, Denver, Tennessee, and Atlanta among the challenging slate.
Las Vegas oddsmakers have set the Chargers' over/under win total at 7.5 games, reflecting the uncertainty surrounding this team. Are they pretenders or contenders? Can Brees take the next step? Will the defense hold up against high-powered offenses?
The answers begin to unfold Sunday at the brand-new Zilker Stadium, where a capacity crowd will welcome their Bolts with thunder in their voices and lightning in their hearts, hoping this is finally the year San Diego returns to prominence.
"We're building something special here," Schottenheimer said. "The foundation is in place. Now it's time to put up the walls and see just how high this structure can go."
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