Chargers Coordinator Mike McDaniel Takes Blame for Offensive Slump

McDaniel takes full responsibility

Los Angeles Chargers offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel is not hiding from his team's poor start. On Thursday, he made it clear that the offensive struggles rest on his shoulders.

"I'm fully responsible," McDaniel said. He added that he spends zero time trying to avoid blame, saying it is quite the opposite.

McDaniel was hired this offseason to turn the offense around. The unit has struggled for the past two seasons, scoring just one touchdown over two playoff losses. He was brought in to fix those issues, but the start of this season has been incredibly difficult.

The numbers behind the struggle

The stats show how tough things have been. The Chargers rank 29th in points per game, averaging just 14.7 points. They are also tied for fifth in turnovers with six.

Quarterback Justin Herbert has had a rough start. He is second in the NFL in interceptions. His QBR of 27.4 is the second worst in the league, ahead of only Jameis Winston of the Giants.

Last Sunday's loss to the Buffalo Bills was especially painful. The defense forced five turnovers while the offense turned it over only once, yet the Chargers still lost. McDaniel noted it was the first time in his career he could remember losing with a plus four turnover differential.

"We were the reason we lost the football game," McDaniel said. "And you gotta pull your weight in this league."

Looking ahead to Seattle

Despite the issues, McDaniel is not discouraged. He pointed out how quickly things can change in the NFL. He recalled three years ago when his offense scored 70 points in a game against the Denver Broncos, only for the team to eventually flop in the postseason.

McDaniel also defended Herbert, who recently faced public criticism from head coach Jim Harbaugh. McDaniel said nothing has changed with Herbert and that he now has a much better understanding of what leads to his quarterback making good plays.

The Chargers face a tough test next against the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday. McDaniel knows it will be loud and that Seattle will be ready after losing their last game.

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.