Posted by ESPN.com's Bill Williamson
Here are four San Diego Players to watch in Sunday's AFC divisional playoff game in Pittsburgh. They will be critical to the Chargers' chances.
Stephen Cooper: The Chargers' linebacker has been playing at a very high level in recent weeks. He is flying all over the field and he is the quarterback of the San Diego defense. Cooper is a smart player who helps set the tone for the defense. He is an emotional leader. The Chargers will need a big-time effort to win a physical game against the Steelers. It is up to Cooper to get the defense ready and keep them motivated in the game.
Antonio Gates: San Diego's star tight end was a hero against the Colts last week. Playing with a high ankle sprain after not practicing all week, Gates had a game-high eight catches. He will be needed to perform at a high level against against Pittsburgh. Yardage will be difficult to come by in bad weather in Pittsburgh. Gates will need to be able to move the chains and keep San Diego's drives alive.
Marcus McNeill: San Diego's left tackle had his difficulties at times against the Colts. He is a very good player. He needs to play well against the Steelers. Pittsburgh has a very physical, tough, relentless defensive front seven. If San Diego has any chance to stay in the game, McNeill will have to be stout.
Eric Weddle: San Diego's second-season safety is playing very well. He had an excellent game against the Colts. He broke up several passes and was good in run support. He is developing into a legitimate tackling machine. In a hard-hitting game, the Chargers will be looking for Weddle to keep the Steelers' receiving core honest.
Williamson joined ESPN.com in 2008 after four seasons covering the Denver Broncos for the Denver Post. He previously covered the Minnesota Vikings, Green Bay Packers and Seattle Seahawks.
