Bleav in Chargers

On this episode of Bleav in Chargers, Lorenzo Neal welcomes two-time Super Bowl champion and Giants legend Carl Banks. They discuss the evolution of football from their playing days to now, highlighting the differences in physicality, toughness, and training between eras. Carl shares insights on the mentality of past defenses, how today’s players train differently, and why current injury rates might be higher despite athletes being fitter. The conversation shifts to a breakdown of the current Giants and Chargers teams, analyzing key players, coaching strategies, matchups, and the impact of travel and time zones. Carl and Lorenzo also compare running backs Omarion Hampton and Cam Skattebo, and discuss adjustments needed for both teams. 00:00:51 – Differences Between Old NFL Eras and Modern Play 00:03:22 – Injuries and Differences in Player Durability 00:06:18 – Impact of Rule Changes on Today’s Game 00:07:43 – Motivation and Culture Behind Great Defenses 00:09:53 – Giants’ Early Season Performance Analysis 00:13:45 – Giants’ Schedule Difficulty and Fan Expectations 00:15:01 – Comparing Giants Quarterbacks: Jaxson Dart vs. Russell Wilson 00:17:14 – Early Kickoff Time and Scheduling Factors for Chargers 00:18:46 – Chargers’ Offensive Strengths and Concerns 00:21:12 – Breakdown of Running Backs: Hampton vs. Scatterboo 00:24:23 – Impact of Cross-Country Travel on Team Performance 00:26:18 – Expectations for the Giants’ Performance in the Game Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Matt Money Smith and Lorenzo Neal discuss the Chargers' impressive 3-0 start to the season, their best since 2002. The conversation highlights the team's resilience, particularly in their recent comeback victory over Denver, where they overcame adversity to secure the win. They emphasize key performances, especially from Justin Herbert. The episode also spotlights playmakers like defensive end Oronde Gadsden and receiver Quentin Johnston, celebrating the evolving talent and depth in the Chargers' lineup. They preview the upcoming game against the Giants and what to expect from rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart. The episode concludes with Money giving Lorenzo some Hall of Fame news. [00:00:18] – Opening: Chargers’ 3-0 Start, AFC West Standings, Historic Perspective [00:01:23] – Recap: Wins vs. Chiefs, Raiders, Broncos – Team Resilience & Adversity [00:02:58] – Broncos Game Analysis: Defensive Breakdowns, Halftime Adjustments, Playoff Atmosphere [00:05:32] – More on Broncos Game: Sean Payton’s Strategy, Missed Opportunities, Defensive Letdowns [00:07:46] – Looking Ahead: Upcoming Giants Game, Betting Odds, Jaxson Dart’s First Start (Ole Miss context), and Quarterback Comparisons [00:11:43] – Offensive Line Struggles: Denver’s Pass Rush, Injuries, Individual Lineman Performances [00:16:19] – Herbert’s Performance: Stats Breakdown, Handling Defensive Pressure, Tight Window Throws [00:19:02] – The Impact of a Franchise QB: Team Confidence, Comparing Leaders Around the League [00:21:20] – Talent, Work Ethic, Justin Herbert as the “Needle in the Haystack” [00:23:50] – Major Differences: 2023 vs. 2022 Chargers – Talent Upgrades, Key Players’ Growth [00:26:02] – Quentin Johnston’s Emergence: Target Share, Impact vs. Top Defenders, Receiver Corps Analysis [00:32:21] – Work Ethic & Development: QJ’s Improvement, Team Chemistry, Tight End Contribution [00:33:21] – Oronde Gadsden II: Rookie Debut Impact, Critical Receptions, Trust from Herbert [00:38:17] – Offensive Mismatches: Gadsden as a Mismatch, Giants Defense Copying Denver [00:39:39] – Running Game Potential: Omarion Hampton’s Breakout, Giants Run Defense Weakness [00:41:56] – More on Tight Ends: The Value of Slot/Detached TE, Gadsden’s Skillset [00:42:02] – Biggest Concern vs. Giants: NY’s Defensive Front, Pressure on Chargers’ OL [00:43:02] – Defending the Giants: Disguising Coverage for Jaxson Dart, Focus on Malik Nabers [00:46:32] – Chargers D-Line & Trade Deadline Speculation: Future Moves, Edge Rusher Situation [00:48:35] – Hall of Fame Discussion: Fullbacks & Running Backs on the 2026 Ballot [00:51:11] – Top Three AFC Teams: Chargers, Bills, Chiefs vs. Ravens/Colts   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Matt 'Money' Smith breaks down a big Chargers victory over the Broncos at SoFi Stadium, highlighting Cameron Dicker’s clutch performance under pressure. He notes Justin Herbert’s gritty play, leading to his 29th career 300-yard game, and praises the resilience of the Chargers despite injuries and adversity, especially on the offensive line. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The episode dives into the Los Angeles Chargers’ strong start to the season, highlighting their impressive 2-0 record and focusing on the Chargers’ dominant defense, which has consistently held opponents under 21 points. They analyze the “complementary football” the Chargers are playing, with offense, defense, and special teams working seamlessly together. Looking ahead to the upcoming matchup against the Denver Broncos, they explain why the Chargers may anticipate relying more on their running game and maintaining a physical approach against Denver’s strong defensive line. They also emphasize the importance of this divisional game, as it could place the Chargers in a favorable position for the AFC West title. 0:00:16 – Chargers’ Hot Start to the Season Matt Money Smith and Lorenzo Neal celebrate the Chargers starting 2-0, Justin Herbert’s MVP odds, and early season excitement. 00:00:58 – Defensive Dominance & Complimentary Football Lorenzo details the elite level of the Chargers’ defense, how holding teams under 21 points leads to wins, and their strong all-around play. 00:02:02 – Monday Night Game Breakdown: Chargers vs Raiders Matt analyzes the Chargers' defensive adjustments against the Raiders, the trouble for the Raiders' offense, and how Brock Bowers' injury impacted the game. 00:03:34 – Chargers’ Defensive Schematics and Player Performances Discussion of pressure rates, standout performances by rookies like Jamaree Caldwell, and praise for defensive coaches. 00:07:39 – Pass Rush Techniques & Interior Line Impact Lorenzo expands on the importance of Derwin James, game-ball-worthy interior linemen, and specifics on disrupting opposing quarterbacks. 00:09:55 – Limiting Explosive Plays Matt and Lorenzo discuss how the Chargers defense forced the Raiders into short gains, allowing zero passes over 20 yards. 00:14:00 – Chargers’ In-Game Adjustments & Finishing Drives Strategic decisions in the red zone, defensive resilience in long drives, and clock management insights. 00:18:00 – Standout Defensive Plays: Derwin James’ Impact Detailed praise of Derwin James’ sideline-to-sideline play and physical dominance. 00:22:19 – Taking the Raiders’ Will: Physical & Mental Edge Lorenzo talks about how the Chargers “took the Raiders’ heart” and the psychological side of a dominant defense. 00:23:17 – Daiyan Henley’s Flu Game Recognition of Daiyan Henley’s standout, Pro Bowl-worthy performance despite being sick. 00:25:53 – Tony Jefferson & Safety Depth Debate about why Tony Jefferson, a key playmaker, hasn’t been promoted from the practice squad. 00:30:35 – Khalil Mack Injury Update & Next Man Up Positive news on Khalil Mack, discussion on depth options at edge rusher, and praise for the coaching staff’s flexibility. 00:33:54 – Coaching Adjustments & Depth Contributions How cross-training players and quick in-game adjustments help overcome injuries. 00:35:48 – Herbert’s Progression & Poise Evaluating Justin Herbert’s composure, playmaking abilities, and how continuity is benefiting him. 00:39:03 – Wide Receivers & Explosive Passing Plays Catching up on Q, Keenan, and McConkey’s impact and how the passing attack has evolved. 00:42:32 – Offensive Line & Pass Protection Breakdowns Matt details a crucial fourth down conversion, attributing it to the work of Matlock and Omarian Hampton in protection. 00:45:30 – Running Game: Najee Harris & Hampton Discussions about balancing the run game, differences in veteran vs rookie backs, and red zone play calling. 00:50:55 – Offensive Line: Backside Cutoff Struggles Breakdown of specific run plays that faltered, particularly in handling Maxx Crosby. 00:54:33 – Denver Broncos Preview: Defensive Fronts Preview of Denver’s formidable defensive line and the tactical considerations for the upcoming game. 00:58:52 – Broncos’ Weaknesses, Strategy, & Coaching Analyzing where the Broncos have faltered, Indy’s blueprint, and what the Chargers need to do. 01:00:02 – Division Stakes & Playoff Implications the magnitude of a potential 3–0 division start and how it affects standings. 01:04:53 – Rivalries & Coaching Personalities 01:06:00 – Looking Ahead: Tough Schedule & Season Outlook Addressing the rest of the Chargers’ schedule and the importance of capitalizing on the current momentum. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Matt Money Smith recaps the Chargers’ recent Monday night win in Vegas, celebrating both the strong turnout from Chargers fans and the team’s impressive defensive performance. He highlights the defense's dominance under coordinator Jesse Minner, noting their ability to limit opponents, force turnovers, and demonstrate depth despite injuries. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

00:01:07 – 00:02:54 Lorenzo describes his struggles finding the field, language barriers, and crowd energy: 00:02:54 – 00:04:50 More on the surfing and culture in Brazil: 00:06:58 – 00:09:47 Fan reactions to losing a home game: 00:15:36 – 00:21:28 Deeper dive into how the Chargers’ receivers were utilized: 00:21:28 – 00:26:42 Discussion on Herbert’s running ability: 00:30:08 – 00:33:07 Reflection on what this win means for the Chargers: 00:33:07 – 00:40:18 Defensive breakdown: 00:50:06 – 00:54:41 Transitioning to Raiders preview: Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Matt Money Smith recaps his trip to Brazil for the Chargers’ international NFL game, praising the Brazilian fans and the overall experience. He highlights Justin Herbert's strong showing and a notable performance by the six active receivers, especially Quentin Johnston, who was the leading receiver. He shares high praise for Keenan Allen, Ladd McConkey, and tight end Tyler Conklin, and notes the offensive line’s impressive job against a tough Chiefs defense. Defensively, he points out standout performances, especially from T’Vondre Sweat, Khalil Mack, and the linebacker corps. He addresses some special teams concerns regarding kickoff returns and mentions possible changes as we advance.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Matt "Money" Smith & Lorenzo Neal are both in São Paulo for the Chargers vs. Chiefs game. Key topics include Kansas City’s recent dominance over the Chargers, the importance of limiting mistakes, and how upgrades in the Chargers' run game and tight end group could change the outcome. They highlight Patrick Mahomes’ knack for capitalizing in crunch time and emphasize the need for the Chargers to improve their late-game execution, particularly in running out the clock and finishing drives. They discuss the challenges of containing Mahomes, the importance of complementary football, and how special teams could play a decisive role. Ultimately, both are optimistic about the Chargers’ chances to finally snap their losing streak against the Chiefs if they execute well on all fronts. 00:00:18 – Live from Brazil 00:01:09 – Game Preview & FanDuel Odds Discussion of current betting lines, Kansas City being favored, and the recent history (seven-game winning streak) the Chiefs have over the Chargers. 00:02:44 – Defenses and Over/Under Prediction Deep dive into both teams’ defensive strengths, previous low-scoring matchups, and speculation on game outcome based on over/under odds. 00:03:19 – Turnovers and Key to the Game Explores the importance of turnovers, Mahomes’ mistakes in past matchups, and the Chargers’ need to capitalize when given chances. 00:06:37 – Chargers’ Struggles to Finish Games Recap of Chargers’ leads in previous games lost in the fourth quarter; focuses on their inability to run the four-minute offense. 00:08:35 – Upgraded Chargers Run Game Detailed look at the new running back group, the importance of finishing games, and getting backs involved in the passing game. 00:11:33 – Herbert vs. Mahomes—The Quarterback Showdown Discussion on Justin Herbert’s star power, expectations for him to step up in big games, and the narrative around his career and playoff wins. 00:12:33 – Chargers’ Need for Breakthrough Performances Explores the need for Herbert to “not blink” against Mahomes, referencing other quarterbacks who thrive in big moments. 00:15:35 – Tight End & Offensive Upgrades Examines the overhauled tight end group, the importance of new acquisitions, and expectations for a more versatile offense. 00:17:28 – Importance of Setting Season Tone Both discuss how starting with three divisional games adds pressure and opportunity, and how a win would help change the Chargers’ recent narrative. 00:20:36 – Defensive Keys vs. Chiefs A look at what the defense needs to do to contain Mahomes, specific matchups, and the rotation on the defensive front. 00:23:20 – Role of Derwin James and Linebackers Talk about Derwin James’ versatility, linebacker play, and the importance of limiting Kansas City’s run game. 00:24:47 – Limiting Yards and Success Strategies Analysis of last year's defensive performance, third down/red zone defense, and the importance of controlling the run. 00:26:33 – Complimentary Football & Game Management Explains why offense and defense must play off each other, the need for sustained drives, and winning third downs. 00:28:27 – Special Teams & Execution in Big Moments Emphasizes all three phases, the possibility for special teams to decide the outcome, and the pressure on both players and coaches to execute. 00:31:07 – Predictions and Closing Thoughts Final score predictions (both pick Chargers to win), summary of keys to the game Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode of Bleav in Chargers, Matt "Money" Smith and Lorenzo Neal discuss the Chargers’ final 53-man roster decisions. They dive into standout players, bubble roster choices like Marlowe Wax, the importance of special teams, and how the roster will adapt before the start of the season. The hosts also compare coaching strategies and analyze the strengths of the offensive/defensive lines. 00:00 – Field Reunion & Preseason Highlights 00:03 – Marlowe Wax Makes Chargers’ 53-Man Roster 00:09 – Special Teams’ Influence on Roster Decisions 00:13 – Practice Squad & Roster Maneuvering 00:20 – Defensive Line & Edge Depth 00:25 – Coaching Matchup: Minter vs. Spagnuolo 00:35 – Offensive Line Concerns & Kansas City Game Preview 00:39 – Wrestling Stories Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Bleav in Chargers, Matt 'Money' Smith and Lorenzo Neal  discuss the Chargers’ preseason performance, roster battles, injury updates, and expectations as the team prepares for their final preseason game against the San Francisco 49ers. Major talking points include offensive line issues, running back depth, Trey Lance’s progression, wide receiver competition, and tight positional battles on defense. They take questions on the 53-man roster, special teams, and how the coaching staff is maximizing player potential. 00:00:17]  team's preseason so far, and looking ahead to the matchup at Levi's Stadium. [00:01:57] Discussion of potential starters’ playtime, concern over preseason injuries (e.g., Quentin’s concussion), and depth chart implications. [00:03:32] Evaluation of offensive line combinations, struggles in recent games, and the effect on the run game. [00:08:09] Analysis of running back injuries and battles, tight end roles, and Tucker Fisk’s importance to the roster. [00:12:56] Deep dive into who makes the team, especially in the backfield and wide receiver positions. [00:16:14] Trey Lance’s impact as backup QB, discussion on if he brings competition to Herbert, and the value of strong QB2. [00:21:33] How the coaching staff is approaching player development and the "next man up" philosophy. [00:25:04] Noting standout performances (like Trey Harris), changing dynamics in the WR room, and what to expect from the Chargers’ air attack. [00:30:07] Uncertainty and competition among DBs, potential cuts, and the importance of special teams. [00:38:06] Marlo Wax’s production, comparison to other backers, and tough cut-down decisions. [00:44:15] Use of IR/PUP to stash players, and approach to keeping key special teamers. [00:45:52] Rapid responses to fan comments, evaluation of key rookies, and final thoughts ahead of cutdown. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.