ESPN AFC West Blog

Posted by ESPN.com's Bill Williamson

NEW ORLEANS -- Here are some random thoughts from the happenings in the AFC West today:

I was just thinking what a pivotal game it is for San Diego Chargers receiver Vincent Jackson when he came up with that long reception to open the game against New England.  With Chris Chambers out, Jackson needs to have a big game and he started it off right.

The Chargers won the coin toss tonight -- for the first time this season.

The Raiders' problems on third down continue. They were three of 15 on third down in their previous game, against San Diego. Sunday, Oakland was 6 of 16 on third down. It's just another reason why this team is struggling.

Don't think that Denver receiver Eddie Royal (ankle) and tight end Tony Scheffler (groin) will be back for certain on Monday Night Football at New England next week. The team will be tempted to keep them out with the Broncos' bye week looming. Royal's replacement, Brandon Stokley, suffered a concussion Sunday and he did not return.

It looks like Michael Pittman is the Broncos' primary tailback, at least, until rookie Ryan Torain is ready to take the job. Pittman had 109 rushing yards on 20 carries against the Jaguars.

The Broncos' loss snapped a six-game winning streak at Invesco Field at Mile High.

Javon Walker continues to struggle for the Raiders. The $55 million man had one catch for seven yards Sunday. He is just not a factor.

Denver used a 3-4 defense almost exclusively to start the game Sunday. But it reverted back to the 4-3. Expect that trend to continue.

The Raiders are awaiting a second opinion on a triceps injury that kept out pass-rush star Derrick Burgess on Sunday. The Raiders can't afford to lose him for an extended period of time.

San Diego star linebacker Shawne Merriman is attending tonight's game. It is his first game he's attended since having season-ending knee surgery after Week 1.