With a season filled with big expectations, the Chargers have flat out underachieved. I personally was looking at a 12-13 win season, now I can only hope they get in the playoffs. Ted Cottrell isn't the only reason for the performance this year. Injuries, bad breaks (the Denver game), and just flat out not playing to their talent. The main difference I see is the offensive line and defensive line aren't playing like they did the last couple of years. The offensive line can't run block like it used to. When they get inside the 20,they settle for way to many field goals. When Cam Cameron was the OC in San Diego, they would pound LT inside the 20 and were always one of the best at getting touchdowns. That's how he scored 31 td's in 06.  What was once a strength has now become a weakness. 

The defense can't get off the field when it needs to. It has had trouble generating a pass rush all year. I knew they would miss Merriman, I just didn't think they would miss him this much. I think they miss his leadership more than anything. He plays with a fire and I don't see that in anyone else. Looking toward the off-season, the Chargers need help at OG, LB, and S. I would love to see either Taylor Mays or Rey Maualuga in a Charger uniform next year. Also with Cromartie and Merriman's contracts coming up and likely only being able to afford one, I think now it is clear that they should try to keep Merriman.