Chargers Secure Victory in Week 4 Clash Despite Missing Key Players
Justin Herbert Shines with His Running Game; Challenges Emerge in the Absence of Key Receivers
In Week 4, the Chargers managed to secure yet another victory against a division rival, but this win, although sweet, left fans on the edge of their seats. Despite dominant performances in various areas, the game felt uncomfortably close at times.
Quarterback Justin Herbert stepped up to the plate, utilizing his speed and agility to score two of the three touchdowns for LA during the game. This remarkable feat highlighted the importance of his rushing ability, which was on full display last Sunday.
However, it wasn’t all smooth sailing for the Chargers. Two of Herbert’s favorite targets were sidelined for the contest, and Week 4 witnessed an unfamiliar sight in the Charger offense, especially since Herbert assumed the starting role in 2020. Keenan Allen had often stepped into the lead role in recent years due to Mike Williams’ unfortunate injury history. Still, the absence of Austin Ekeler from LA’s backfield loomed particularly large during the game against the Raiders.
Dud: The passing game chemistry
The loss of Mike Williams and Austin Ekeler felt noticeable for the Chargers in this one. While Herbert was getting chased around all day, he never had Ekeler in the flat as a safety valve. After the BYE, the Chargers should have their star running back return on Monday Night Football vs. Dallas. However, the longer-term issue of Williams’ absence will remain. Outside of Keenan Allen, it doesn’t feel like Justin Herbert has that consistent chemistry with his receiver room yet. Quentin Johnston has been wide open on several plays in the last two weeks, as Herbert has been quick to look off of that read. Outside of the last throw of the game, Palmer also wasn’t a consistent fixture in the afternoon’s proceedings. What felt off about the offense was the key pieces that were missing and the lack of execution in their replacement.
via Alex Insdorf, Chargers Wire
As the Raiders focused their defensive efforts on Keenan Allen, Herbert struggled to connect with other receivers, leaving the Chargers in a precarious position during the lackluster second half. It became evident that Ekeler’s absence was keenly felt, as his role as a safety valve in the backfield was sorely missed. An early bye week, while not ideal in a long season, could offer some respite for Kellen Moore’s offense and provide an opportunity to rekindle creativity as they look ahead to the rest of the 2023 season.
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