San Diego Chargers 2008 Odds - AFC Western Division Championship

This time last year the Chargers were scratching their heads over a clumsy coaching move, with Norv Turner replacing Marty Schottenheimer. This year, the Chargers don't enter the season on such a tumultuous note. And they're hoping the campaign ends in a Super manner. The Chargers are legitimate contenders for another deep run into the playoffs, and anything less than advancing to the Super Bowl will be a disappointment.

LaDainian Tomlinson is at the summit of his Hall of Fame career, Philip Rivers should be healthy after serious knee surgery. The defense is stingy, built around forcing turnovers. The front office didn't alter the roster much; there was no need to after the Chargers advanced to the AFC Championship Game.

The Chargers did lose key players in fullback Lorenzo Neal, safety Marlon McCree and nickelback Drayton Florence. But replacements were found in-house or through the draft. The Chargers have won three of the last four AFC West titles. Their aspirations, though, are much higher. Still, there are some red flags. Pro Bowl tight end Antonio Gates hopes to rebound from toe surgery, as does center Nick Hardwick from a foot operation. Second-year pro Eric Weddle must fill the void left by McCree's defection. and rookie Antoine Cason has to prove he's an NFL nickelback. While no team is without blemishes, the Chargers don't have many.