Can Jim Harbaugh and Justin Herbert Save the Chargers?
The Los Angeles Chargers are off to a rough start as coach Jim Harbaugh and quarterback Justin Herbert struggle to find their rhythm.

A rough start in Los Angeles
The Los Angeles Chargers are facing a difficult start to the season. After starting with three straight losses, the team is struggling to find the success that coach Jim Harbaugh promised when he arrived in January 2024. Harbaugh, who came from a national championship win at Michigan, initially promised multiple championships and vowed to protect star quarterback Justin Herbert.
Instead, the partnership has hit a wall in its third season. The Chargers currently have one of the worst offenses in the league, averaging just 14.7 points per game. Harbaugh recently challenged his quarterback to "be better" as they try to turn the season around. Herbert agreed with the criticism, saying, "Obviously not where we want to be. And it starts with me."
Broken promises on offense
When Harbaugh and general manager Joe Hortiz took over, they promised to build a dominant running game to protect Herbert. However, the results have not met expectations. Since Harbaugh arrived, the rushing offense has averaged 115.9 yards per game, ranking 16th in the league. While running backs Omarion Hampton and Keaton Mitchell have helped the team average 113 rushing yards per game this season, it is still far from the dominant ground game Harbaugh is known for.
The offensive line has struggled significantly. Guard Mekhi Becton was released after one season, and center Tyler Biadasz suffered a season ending ACL injury in training camp. As a result, Herbert has taken a beating. Since 2024, Herbert has been hit 391 times, which is the most in the NFL, and the team has allowed 112 sacks. The pressure has forced Herbert to scramble more, leading to a career high 498 rushing yards last season.
What it means for the next game
Los Angeles Chargers at Seattle Seahawks (NFL, Sun, 04 Oct): Seattle Seahawks win 75%, Los Angeles Chargers win 25%; projected score Seattle Seahawks 24, Los Angeles Chargers 18. Our safest pick: Seahawks to win.
Denver Broncos at Los Angeles Chargers (NFL, Sun, 11 Oct): Los Angeles Chargers win 41%, Denver Broncos win 59%; projected score Los Angeles Chargers 20, Denver Broncos 23. Our safest pick: Under 50.5 points.
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