This past week could quiet possibly be the most unforgiving time to be a Chargers fan. It all started last Monday when the Chargers blew their 24-point halftime lead and fell to the Denver Broncos. It was embarrassing, pathetic and there is no logical excuse for that kind of collapse. Once fans began to swallow their pride and move on from the loss, the Director of Public Relations for the San Diego Chargers made a bold move.
On October 18, Bill Johnston might have created more controversy than the Chargers Monday night loss. Johnston posted a piece on the Chargers website, urging fans to “take a chill pill.” As the Director of Public Relations, it was clear that Johnston’s opinion was representing more than just his personal thoughts, but the organizations as well. San Diego is notorious for their fair-weather fans and Johnston publicly called them out as he wrote, “If you want these players and coaches to succeed, then support them. Don’t tear them down.”
Johnston brought the realistic viewpoint to the bigger picture. Even after a terrible loss on national television, the Chargers are still tied at the top of the AFC West with 10 games to be played. That statement alone was a breath of fresh air. The best part of the NFL is that it’s unpredictable. There are no guarantees.
And just when fans were ready to enjoy the Chargers bye week and just root for their fantasy team, Jay Glazer of FOX Sports tweeted, “I’m reporting the NFL is investing the Chargers after they were caught using a banned illegal Stick em-type substance vs broncos Mon night.” And just like that, the Chargers fan base was turned upside down.
Talk about a week full of mixed emotions. Even the die-hard Chargers fans had to take a moment to say, “enough is enough.” On Monday, Norv Turner denied the accusations by saying, “No one on the San Diego Chargers used Stickum.” As the NFL continues to investigate the illegal substance with the Chargers, fans are hopeful their team can look away from the distractions and just play some good football. After all, they are taking on the Browns this Sunday, who currently have a 1-6 record.
