Can We Make That So It's Part Of The Deal?

Last week wasn't perfect, but it sets the Chargers up to matter. What was clear against the Saints is that Herbert is getting healthier and is a complete joy to watch. His run completely fired the team up.

The interior offensive line is still massively suspect. I have no doubt that Hortiz, Batman to Jim Harbaugh's Robin know that Pipkins and Johnson are a liability. Herbert had to basically stiffarm himself out of a safety and completely created that final TD throw to McConkey.

But they have a chance tomorrow to put themselves in a position to make a run. How far, I don't know. I expected this team to make the playoffs. That was based on Harbaugh, not on the roster.

There is no way this kid doesn't deserve a shot on the biggest stage. I agree he needs more weapons. Chark and Johnston being on the field together for the first time will help. The Browns will be no easy task, but I am more comfortable with them having beaten the Ravens than lying dormat and therefore being scarier. That's how my mind works, FAITHFUL READER, but you already know that.

They will need to play a more complete game than last week, but you also knew that. I had written off Bosa last week, but I also think that was the result of seeing Daniel Popper's Tweet that he was in massive pain. I think Popper has done great stuff, especially holding Staley accountable when it seemed like no one else would. But this is Jim Harbuagh, and it feels like Pop is just trying to get clicks for The Athletic, now backed by the New York Times. His asking whether the defense was for real or the result of poor competition was sad. When Harbaugh asked him if he had an article written already, he clearly had.

So Rice is on IR and Reaghor, who had the catch of his life last week, is on the active roster. Josh Palmer had a big grab, but has had that arm brace on forever. The run defense on Kamara was spotty and obviously needs to step up tomorrow. But they have a shot to make a difference and that's all we can ask for right now.

The Chargers have done pretty well in Cleveland, minus the game when Lambo missed the kick and when Meachem dropped an easy TD. I was supposed to be at that awful game, but Hurricane Sandy put the kibosh on that. Anyway, I'm ready to Bolt Up here on the Island. Sure you are as well. Let's fuckin' do this.

JIC, RLW