Week 14 matchup.(NFL)(evaluation of performances of LaDainian Tomlinson, Derrick Brooks and Ronald Bartell )

LaDainian Tomlinson RB. Chargers

vs.

Derrick Brooks WLB, Buccaneeres

Brooks is 31, but he still can chase down most ballcarriers and is an excellent tackler. And he is used to drawing tough assignments such as Tomlinson.

That said, Brooks and the Bucs face a big problem in their base scheme--and not just because of Tomlinson. The threat of big-play tight end Antonio Gates will have a big impact on this matchup. Gates often will line up on the side opposite Tomlinson, forcing the safety on the side opposite Brooks to cover Gates. Without safety support on his side, Brooks won't be able to go all-out in pursuit of Tomlinson on running plays away from Brooks.

Though it might appear in this game that Brooks doesn't run like he used to, it simply will be a product of Gates' presence. The vertical threat he provides will temper Brooks' aggressiveness. Brooks has enough speed for the assignment, but he'll have to hold back for the cutback run and be cautious in pursuit. Expect the Chargers to run sweep/toss plays to the strong side. When Gates releases, he will attract two defenders, which is better than having him block.

Tomlinson isn't having the success as a receiver that he had last season, when he caught 100 passes. But unless Brooks blitzes--and he probably won't--Tomlinson will be free to release, and Brooks will struggle to stop him in space. Brooks will need help, but if Chargers quarterback Drew Brees reads that there's extra ...