Interview with the Enemy: Los Angeles Chargers

It’s football time, folks, and we’re back again with the Interview with the Enemy series. This week, Richard Wade of Bolts from the Blue answers 5 quick questions about the upcoming preseason matchup between the New Orleans Saints and San Diego Los Angeles Chargers:

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What is the position for the Chargers battle Saints fans can focus in on in the first preseason game?

The battle to focus on is the back end of the receiving group. Artavis Scott, Geremy Davis, and Co. have all shown promise at times, but there may only be one open spot remaining, so the competition is serious. Aside from that, you want to watch the backup quarterbacks. Geno Smith probably has the job locked up, but Anthony Lynn seems to want to give Cardale Jones every chance he can.

How many reps do you anticipate for starters like Philip Rivers, Keenan Allen and Melvin Gordon?

I’ll be surprised if Rivers plays more than a series or two, but imagine we’ll see the other two through the first quarter at least.

Everyone has heard of Melvin Ingram, but who are the other defensive playmakers for Saints fans to pay attention to?

The defense is just filled with exciting players (as long as you ignore defensive tackle). Obviously, Ingram and Joey Bosa are stars, but Casey Hayward has an argument for best cornerback in the NFL after last season. At linebacker, Denzel Perryman is the Chargers’ best, but rookie Kyzir White and young-ish veteran Jatavis Brown bring some athleticism that is fun to watch. And, don’t forget to keep an eye on first-round pick Derwin James who moves all around the defense.

Not for the preseason, but in the regular season, what are general expectations from the fan base? Is a divisional crown in sight?

If the Chargers don’t make the playoffs this season, fans will be very disappointed. The AFC West has taken a bit of a step back in most folks’ eyes and the Chargers have arguably the most talent in the division, so that divisional crown is not just the goal but the expectation.

Just for fun: what’s the final score of the game? Who scores the first Chargers TD?

I like the Saints to take this one 24 - 20. I think you get the first Chargers touchdown from Keenan Allen. He’s still the best player on the offense not named Philip Rivers.

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Thank-you, Richard, for taking the time to answer our questions. Saints fans, make sure you check out Richard and the work his guys are doing over at Bolts from the Blue. You can follow Richard on Twitter @RichardWade, Bolts from the Blue @BFTB_Chargers, and of course you can follow me @dunnellz.