Secondary's Problem: Too Many Tackles

Mamba · Oct 16, 2008

Of the 15 leading tacklers among defensive backs in the NFL according to Stats, Inc., three play for the Chargers, including leader Eric Weddle with 50. The Chargers free safety is far ahead in solo tackles with 41.

Strong safety Clinton Hart and cornerback Quentin Jammer are tied for 12th, each with a total of 30.

“To have three people from your secondary that high in tackles, it isn't always a good thing and it isn't always a bad thing,” said Hart, the defensive captain. “It can mean your secondary's running to the ball or (opponents) are getting a little bit too far up the field. I do think we run to the ball really well.”

Ballcarriers may be coming more Weddle's way in the absence of linebacker Shawne Merriman, moving away from Shaun Phillips. Weddle also said running backs are doing a lot of cutting back on plays originally aimed for the strong side, bringing them into his territory.

“Eric's a sure tackler,” Hart said. “He does a good job of clickin' heels (ankle tackles). He's down there like a little piranha.”

Weddle is fourth among NFL players at any position in solo tackles, seventh overall in total tackles.

“A lot of my tackles are just running to the ball,” Weddle said. “It's not like they're getting a lot of balls up the field on us. There are just a lot of short throws and we all get tackles. In this league, you gotta make the tackles to keep them from getting extra YAC (yards after catch).

“The first couple games we missed a lot of tackles. We're not missing them now.”
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http://www3.signonsandiego.com/stories/2008/oct/15/chargers-notes-primary-problem-secondary/?chargers

Mamba · Oct 16, 2008

This is a disturbing trend, but I expect it to get better. Our defense looks like it is waking up and starting to play good ball. We've had two solid outings, despite the loss to Miami.

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Secondary's Problem: Too Many Tackles

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Secondary's Problem: Too Many Tackles

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