New England Patriots Vs. San Diego Chargers: Antonio Gates Invisible, But Chargers’ D Making A Game Of It

Four first-half turnovers should pretty much equal a big halftime lead, but the Patriots are only ahead by ten after settling for three for the second time this quarter. The Chargers pass rush isn’t giving QB Tom Brady anything, with LB Antwan Barnes sacking him again as the half wound down.

The Chargers have outgained New England by 84 yards despite those three fumbles and an interception by QB Philip Rivers. Both teams are clearly missing playmakers, with the Pats’ offense still adjusting to the trade of WR Randy Moss and San Diego trying to patch together a receiving corps from the scraps of last year’s explosive attack.

Chargers TE Antonio Gates has yet to even be targeted today. He missed a week of practice with a toe injury, but with WRs Malcolm Floyd and Legadu Naanee inactive due to injuries, plus Vincent Jackson beginning his three-game suspension, the Patriots have done the obvious and taken away Gates.

LB Jerod Mayo leads New England’s defense so far, with five tackles and a fumble recovery.