New England Patriots: 5 toughest defensive opponents in 2017

Week 8: Los Angeles Chargers

The Los Angeles Chargers are not going to be great in 2017, in my opinion. That said, their defense does seem to be taking steps in the right direction. Last year’s top draft pick for the Chargers, Joey Bosa, should step up in year 2. He has the ability to get pressure on opposing quarterbacks, but it’ll be tough for him to do so on his own.

The Chargers have also brought in Tre Boston to fill a safety spot, and he’s had some success in the past.

Gus Bradley is now LA’s defensive coordinator, and he’s switched the team to a 4-3 scheme.  That’s a great thing for Bosa, who can go back to how he played at Ohio State. Last season was Bosa’s only year in a 3-4 so the change back to a 4-3 shouldn’t be too tough.

"“It’s going great,” Bosa says. “For me, it’s not too much of a change. My techniques aren’t changing too much. I’m just playing the edge.”"

The Chargers should be a lot better defensively than they were last season, but the New England Patriots really shouldn’t have many issues when these teams play in week 8, right before New England’s bye week.