Justin Herbert’s Pick-Six Misstep Highlights Chargers’ Slow Starts
The Los Angeles Chargers, holding a 5-3 record, arrived in Nashville to take on the struggling Tennessee Titans, who sit at 1-7. At halftime, the Chargers held a narrow lead of 20-17, but the performance brought up significant concerns, especially regarding quarterback Justin Herbert’s slow starts.
Herbert’s Struggles Raise Eyebrows
The Chargers’ second offensive play turned disastrous when Herbert threw a pick-six to Titans linebacker Cody Barton. What appeared to be a routine stop route spiraled into a nightmare as Barton intercepted the pass, showcasing a troubling trend for the young quarterback. This isn’t an isolated incident; last week, Herbert narrowly avoided an interception against the Minnesota Vikings, with a replay determining that the pass was not caught by the defender.
Statistically, Herbert’s first-quarter performance this season raises questions. Officially, he has recorded four touchdowns and one interception in the opening quarter. However, considering the overturned interception against the Vikings and the pick-six against the Titans, his ratio shifts to four touchdowns against three interceptions. For a quarterback known for his poise and turnover avoidance, this is far from ideal. As the season progresses, finding ways to start strong could prove critical for the Chargers.
Concerns for Special Teams
The Chargers’ special teams, once a point of pride under coordinator Ryan Ficken, have come under scrutiny. Ficken, who played a key role in revamping the unit during the Brandon Staley era, was retained by new head coach Jim Harbaugh. However, in year two of their collaboration, the performance has faltered. The unit has accrued nine penalties, endured multiple botched long snaps, and allowed a punt return touchdown against the Titans. These missteps are alarming and may put Ficken’s position in jeopardy.
Offensive Line Woes Persist
The Chargers’ offensive line has been a recurring topic of concern, and the matchup against the Titans did little to dispel those worries. With Foster Sarrell and Bobby Hart starting—two players who were not on a 53-man roster at the beginning of the season—the line’s depth has been tested. Hart, who had been performing surprisingly well, left the game due to a groin injury, raising further questions about the unit’s ability to protect Herbert and establish a solid ground game.
As the Chargers look to maintain their playoff aspirations, addressing these issues will be crucial. The combination of Herbert’s slow starts, special teams blunders, and a struggling offensive line could prove detrimental as they navigate the second half of the season.
