Justin Herbert Faces Adversity Against Eagles’ Depleted Defense
When the Los Angeles Chargers take on the Philadelphia Eagles in their Week 14 matchup, the stakes are higher than ever. Quarterback Justin Herbert will be just a week removed from surgery on his non-throwing hand, yet he is resolved to play through the pain. This determination comes at a crucial time, as the Chargers are expected to heavily rely on their running game.
Omarion Hampton’s Potential Return
Ideally, the Chargers would have first-round running back Omarion Hampton available to bolster their ground attack. Hampton, who impressed earlier in the season by rushing for 314 yards on 66 attempts—averaging an impressive 4.8 yards per carry—could be a game changer. If he returns to the lineup, the Chargers’ running game could become a formidable weapon against the Eagles.
Eagles’ Defensive Woes
However, the dynamics of the game have shifted with recent injury news for the Eagles. Star defensive lineman Jalen Carter will miss the contest following shoulder surgery, leaving a significant gap in Philadelphia’s defensive front. With Carter sidelined, the Eagles may have to lean on less experienced players, such as Byron Young, to fill the void. This presents a prime opportunity for the Chargers to exploit the Eagles’ weakened defense.
Historical Context of Running Backs vs. Eagles Defense
The absence of Carter could leave the Eagles vulnerable to opposing running backs. This season, teams have found success against Philadelphia’s defense without Carter on the field. Notable performances include Javonte Williams, who rushed for 54 yards and two touchdowns, and Cam Skattebo, who amassed 98 rushing yards and three touchdowns. The Chargers will hope that if Hampton is back in action, he can add his name to that list of successful runners against a depleted Eagles defense.
As the Chargers prepare for this pivotal game, all eyes will be on Herbert’s resilience and the potential impact of a reenergized running game. The combination of a determined quarterback and a fresh running back could be just what Los Angeles needs to tackle the challenges posed by Philadelphia’s injuries.
