San Diego Chargers likely to play tackle Mike Harris in place of injured Jared Gaither – NFL News
With injury to their star offensive tackle Jared Gaither, San Diego Chargers will again have to rely on young shoulders of their rookie tackle Mike Harris in Week 6 game against Denver Broncos on Monday, October 15, 2012.
Gaither is listed as doubtful in the Chargers’ injury report for Monday night game. He injured his groin during Week 5 game against New Orleans Saints.
The offensive tackle was unable to participate in practice sessions this week and will be analysed on Monday morning. Talking about Gaither’s chances of playing on Monday, Chargers head coach Norv Turner said:
“We’ll see where he is on. It’s really a matter of evaluating where he’s at and then if he can go we’d like to have him.”
Harris started first three games of the season and looked impressive. Even quarterback Philip Rivers has previously shown astonishment to see the rookie playing so well in his first season.
With the likelihood of getting the start, Harris has been preparing for the occasion throughout last week. He was also appreciative of Gaither for giving a helping hand during the pressure moments. Harris said:
“I was able to take a step back over the last few weeks and really evaluate my performance. I watched a ton of tape, and looked at my performance with a critical eye. I was able to learn from mistakes I've made and apply those corrections this week in practice,
which has given me a ton of confidence. I've been able to learn by doing and learn by watching a real pro like Jared Gaither.”
Gaither is in his seventh season in the league and surely has the experience that is of great help to a rookie like Harris. Gaither has only played two games this season.
The veteran has been in and out of the game since joining Chargers last season in which he started a mere five games.
Given Gaither’s injuries, Chargers need Harris to quickly adjust into the system.
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