The Los Angeles Chargers are facing significant challenges this NFL season. Without a win after three weeks, they have suffered two losses by double digits to the Cardinals and Raiders. These teams combined for only six victories last season. However, the recent defeat against the Bills might be the most concerning for the Chargers.
Despite forcing five turnovers, a statistic typically vital for winning, the Chargers lost 24-16. The team’s offense is faltering, with Justin Herbert unable to finish drives effectively. Leading 13-10 in the fourth quarter, the team settled for field goals, allowing Buffalo to rally late in the game. Josh Allen, who had an uneven performance most of the day, completed two decisive fourth-quarter scoring drives.
Chargers’ Head Coach Jim Harbaugh addressed Herbert’s performance, urging the quarterback to improve his decision-making. Harbaugh said, “Be better. Be better,” emphasizing the collective drive for improvement among the team. The comment reflects the coach’s demand for progress from his players.
Herbert was selected as the sixth overall pick in the 2020 draft from Oregon. He quickly became one of the league’s top quarterbacks, earning Offensive Rookie of the Year. In his second year, he threw for 5,014 yards, ranking second in the NFL, and recorded 38 touchdowns with 15 interceptions. Herbert completed 65.9% of his passes and gained an additional 302 rushing yards. Despite his achievements, he has yet to surpass the playoff first round.
Last season, Herbert secured his second Pro Bowl selection with 3,727 passing yards, 26 touchdowns, and 13 interceptions, along with a personal-best 498 rushing yards. Unfortunately, the Chargers, with an 11-6 record, fell in the Wild Card round again. This year has proven even more difficult for Herbert, who has thrown 627 yards and three touchdowns with four interceptions, achieving a career-low 59.1% completion rate.
The Chargers face a challenging schedule ahead, starting with a game against the Seahawks in Seattle. Subsequent matches include the Broncos, Chiefs, Rams, Texans, and Ravens. The pressure is on Herbert to revitalize his game, as doubts about his future performance might arise if the slump continues.