After a disappointing finish to last season Chargers Fans are looking forward to next year. With the 2012 schedule out it’s time to size up their opponents and make your predictions for the following season. The road to the playoffs is not going to be an easy one, but let’s take a look at some of the excitement to look forward to.

Divisional Match-ups

There’s a new sheriff in town in Denver and Broncos fans will be turning in their number 15 jerseys for 18’s with the latest addition of Peyton Manning. The Chargers are no longer going to be favorites to win the division and this could be exactly the motivation they need. They always play better from behind and they can’t expect to mow down the competition like they have in the past. I predict the Chargers to split the 2 game series with the Broncos this year.

You can also expect a good fight from the Raiders and Chiefs with running backs Darren McFadden and Jamaal Charles back to full strength. Those two have done a number on the Chargers D-line in the past and it’ll be a challenge to sweep both of those matchups as well.

They will have some tough opponents as well by squaring off against their former quarterback Drew Brees and the Saints. Another interesting matchup will be against the Buccaneers where Vincent Jackson will be looking to put a beat down on his former team. The Ravens, Steelers and Jets will all be big games as well this year. The Chargers definitely face an uphill battle this year but they should be up to the challenge especially with additions such as Robert Meachem and Eddie Royal. With this said I have a conservative prediction for their record this season.

Prediction for 2012 season: 9-7 and barely sneaking into the playoffs.

What’s your prediction?

~Brendan Prinz

Here is the 2012 San Diego Chargers Schedule