close
close

A shocking statistic shows why the Chargers opened the NFL season so successfully


A shocking statistic shows why the Chargers opened the NFL season so successfully

The Los Angeles Chargers are 2-0 to start the season. The Chargers have played well in all three phases of the game, but the offensive unit is one of the most noticeable differences from previous teams.

The Chargers have had to complete nine third downs with a gain of three yards or less. The offense ran targeted attacks on every attempt with the ball. Of the nine attempts, the Chargers successfully converted seven.

The Chargers’ offense ranks second in the league with 395 rushing yards, thanks in large part to the offensive line.

Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh said the offensive line was virtually perfect in Week 2.

“Pretty much everything. It was really impressive,” Harbaugh said, according to team transcripts. “The surge is what jumped out at me on the tape. All five guys were outstanding … every one of them was worthy of playing.”

Joe Alt (87.2), Zion Johnson (82.7), Rashawn Slater (85.8) and Trey Pipkins (79.3) received the highest Pro Football Focus grades in Week 2.

Alt received the highest rating among offensive tackles in the league. Slater also received the highest rating among left tackles. Alt and Slater have the potential to be one of the best tackle duos in the league if the pair continues down this path.

Johnson and Pipkins had the second highest scores among left and right guards.

“All five were individually outstanding, excellent and improved greatly just by playing as a unit,” Harbaugh said. “A cohesive unit.”

“That’s just the type of competitors they are,” Harbaugh said. “Another sign of the selflessness and togetherness of the team.”

“I noticed it from day one,” Harbaugh added. “When you don’t have the ball and you’re a blocker, that’s the standard. But they set it and it’s not something that was ever talked about.”

Running back JK Dobbins leads the NFL with 266 total rushing yards, but ranks 21st with 27 rushes.

Dobbins has more rushing yards than 19 teams combined. The shooting star is tied with Josh Jacobs for most runs of 20+ yards this season.

The unusual success of the Chargers’ running game has helped ease the burden on quarterback Justin Herbert.

Due to an ankle injury, Herbert is not yet sure if he will play on Sunday, but his presence on the field is of utmost importance to the team’s success.

The Chargers hope to take a 3-0 lead after their game against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 3.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *