September 18, 1998
(AP) - Fresh off a 2-0 start, the San Diego Chargers head into their first big test of the season at the site of one of last year's worse losses.
When the Chargers, 13-7 winners over Tennessee Sunday, visit Kansas City next Sunday, there will be lingering memories of the 31-3 debacle last year when San Diego self-destructed.
The Chargers committed a team-record 19 penalties for 146 yards and had two turnovers. San Diego's top two quarterbacks were knocked out with injuries.
``The more of an issue you make of it, sometimes the larger a problem it becomes,'' Chargers coach Kevin Gil-bride said about returning to Kansas City. ``As long as you cover your bases, it's just a matter of playing.''
San Diego will not only face the hostile environment of Arrowhead Stadium but also the AFC's third-ranked defense, led by pass-rushing specialist Derrick Thomas.
The Chargers' offensive line was the biggest culprit last year at Kansas City as it committed 11 penalties, including eight false starts and three holding calls. The offensive line figures to play a prominent role against a Chiefs defense that has 13 sacks through two games.
The good news for San Diego is that the club revamped the line in the offseason, signing free agents Aaron Taylor, John Jackson and Roman Fortin.
``We have a more veteran offensive line that will deal with the pressure of the game,'' Gilbride said.
Raleigh McKenzie, one of only two offensive line starters left from last year, said he doesn't expect the same results this Sunday.
``This is a much different unit than the one we had last year,'' said McKenzie, a 14-year veteran. ``Last year we had some guys who were facing those circumstances for the first time. This time, we have guys who have a lot of experience and who have been here before.''
The offensive line has been one of the team's bright spots in the first two games.
Chargers rookie quarterback Ryan Leaf has been sacked only twice and has generally been given plenty of time in the pocket.
But against the Chiefs, San Diego will have to contend with Thomas, Kansas City's perennial Pro Bowl outside linebacker.
``That's about as big of a challenge as there is,'' said left tackle Vaughn Parker, who will line up most of the time against Thomas. ``But we've been playing real well as a unit and I don't expect that to stop.''
The offensive line played a big part in the win over the Oilers as the Chargers gained 141 yards rushing. Leaf, who attempted only 24 passes, was not sacked and usually had ample time to throw.
``I thought our offensive line did a masterful job of being able to block so we had some consistency in our running game,'' Gilbride said.
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