In the recent game against the Kansas City Chiefs, Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert faced an overwhelming amount of pressure, being pressured on 51.7% of his dropbacks. This marked one of the highest pressure rates of his career and significantly impacted his performance during the Chargers’ 17-10 loss.
The absence of key offensive tackles Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt was a major factor contributing to this pressure. Slater was sidelined with a pectoral injury, while Alt missed the game due to a knee issue. Both players are vital to the Chargers’ offensive line, with Slater being the standout lineman and Alt proving effective as a rookie earlier in the season.
With Herbert already limited by an ankle injury, the lack of a stable pocket hindered his ability to execute plays effectively. The pressure was particularly intense in the fourth quarter, reducing the Chargers’ chances of staging a comeback.
The Chargers now have a bye week, providing an opportunity to regroup and hopefully get their offensive line back to full strength. As they prepare to face the Denver Broncos next in Week 5, the Chargers will need to address their offensive line issues. The Broncos boast a formidable defense, having sacked opposing quarterbacks five times in their last game and ranking second in the NFL for total sacks this season.
Justin Herbert Stat in Highlighted in Los Angeles Chargers’ Week 4 Loss
Without doubt, Herbert was clearly targeted by the Chiefs’ defense in their Week 4 matchup. This prompted ESPN’s Kris Rhim to come out with an eye-popping stat about how the quarterback was defended in that game.
Eye-popping stat: Herbert was hit at the time of throw on four pass attempts Sunday, the most in a game in the past two seasons. This is likely the result of the Chargers missing their starting tackles, along with Herbert having limited mobility.
If the Chargers can’t improve their protection, Herbert may find himself under similar pressure again, which could lead to further struggles for an offense that is currently among the bottom in both total and passing yards per game.
The upcoming weeks will be crucial for the Chargers to bolster their line and enhance their overall performance. If they fail to address the problem at hand, the team may fall further down the standings.
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