Handed two gifts by the injury gods, the Chargers' offense is in fair position to open them Sunday at Arrowhead Stadium against a Chiefs defense that will lack superstar edge man Justin Houston and underrated linebacker Josh Mauga.
A fit Houston, sidelined now by his recovery from reconstructive knee surgery, is one of the NFL's truly dominant two-way defenders. Explosive, strong, rangy and aware, Houston has whipped Chargers blockers D.J Fluker, Joe Barksdale (then with the Rams) and a few other Bolts who play running back or tight end.
Not only does Houston command special attention as a pass-rusher, he's a stout, explosive run defender who is too powerful and quick for tight ends and tackles.