The Chargers have officially become the bottom-of-the-barrel worst team in the NFL. They are the only team that hasn’t won a game yet this season. The Los Angeles Chargers are 0-8. The collapse is pretty shocking because, over the last two seasons, this team went 11-6. They even made the playoffs in the midst of it all. It’s not just one piece of the team causing the issues; it’s several, and here’s what’s going on.
The Offense is Falling Apart
The Chargers are dealing with multiple injuries during this season. They are missing big players such as Rawshan Slater, Tyler Biadasz, and Trey Pipkins III, among several others. With these star players all being out, it has left the offensive line wide open. Unfortunately for Los Angeles quarterback Justin Herbert, he has taken an immense beating from all their opponents so far this season. He has been sacked 31 times, including eight times in their last game against the Houston Texans.
This veteran quarterback is dealing with constant pressure during games. He has no way out of it and often ends up on the ground after each play. During the Chargers’ most recent game against Houston, Herbert ended up with an injured finger on his nonthrowing hand. Despite the minor finger injury, he should be able to play on Monday Night Football on November 16th. However, his availability during the game isn’t confirmed yet, given how tough the season has been.
Not only is the offensive line struggling to protect the quarterback, but it is also struggling to score any touchdowns this season. They’re averaging 15.1 points per game, the lowest in the NFL. Herbert cannot seem to find his way through or around the defensive lines to move the ball. It’s such a struggle that they cannot even finish their drives. Even when they do get downfield, opponents stop them, and they often settle for a field goal instead.
The Defensive Line Is Struggling Too
Not only is the offensive line having a hard time making plays, but the defensive line is, too. They can’t get the blocks in on their opponents or find ways to get in and sack their opponent’s quarterback. They've had only 13 sacks in total this season. The defensive line has allowed too much so far this season. In all eight games, they have allowed 219 points, averaging 27.4 points per game. The defense is currently ranking 28th in the NFL.
Jim Harbaugh Hasn’t Found a Solution
This is Harbaugh's third season as the Chargers head coach. It has been a major disappointment for a person who was supposed to make this team a top contender. There were high expectations, but they haven't met any of them. This team may go 0-17. It seems their season is already lost, and there is no recovery at this point. They may be lucky if they win one or two games, but they don't have an offensive or defensive line. Harbaugh may need to work his team a little harder before the season closes out, and they may still manage at least one or two wins. On the upside, they will most likely have the first pick of the draft.
