Chargers receiving corps presents another challenge for Patriots

FOXBORO – The Los Angeles Chargers present multiple challenges for the Patriots this weekend.

They have a loaded defensive line and stacked secondary on defense. On offense, they’re led by a talented veteran quarterback and one of the best running backs in the NFL. On Wednesday, Bill Belichick also noted that the Chargers’ receiving group is also a handful.

Truth be told, Los Angeles’ receiver depth chart is also a bit confusing.

When [...]

FOXBORO – The Los Angeles Chargers present multiple challenges for the Patriots this weekend.

They have a loaded defensive line and stacked secondary on defense. On offense, they’re led by a talented veteran quarterback and one of the best running backs in the NFL. On Wednesday, Bill Belichick also noted that the Chargers’ receiving group is also a handful.

Truth be told, Los Angeles’ receiver depth chart is also a bit confusing.

When Belichick was asked if there were any similarities between Pro Bowler Keenan Allen and "Williams," the Patriots coach was quick to note, “there’s two of them” in Mike and Tyrell Williams. Both Williams' are 6-foot-4. Mike Williams has 664 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns while Tyrell Williams has 653 yards and five touchdowns.

Together, matched with Allen, the group will be a challenge for the Patriots secondary.

“Look they have a very good receiving group,” Belichick said. “They’re big, fast. They’re hard to tackle after the catch. They make big plays down the field. Both the Williams are averaging about 15 yards a catch, something like that. [Travis] Benjamin’s obviously an explosive guy who can score from anywhere on the field. Keenan Allen’s as good of a receiver as there is in the National Football League — big, quick, tough after the catch, hard guy to tackle, very good route runner, exceptional route runner, great hands, concentration.

“They have a great group of receivers, great group of tight ends, great group of backs. He uses all of them. So, it’s not one guy you have to stop, but clearly, Allen’s been the most productive receiver by far, but I don’t take anything away from those other guys.”