Chargers’ latest injury creates a full-blown identity crisis that will force quarterback Justin Herbert to earn every penny
The loss of Omarion Hampton looms large in Los Angeles.
The day that the Los Angeles Chargers hired Jim Harbaugh, they knew they signed up for old-school football. A fast and physical defense and an offense that lives through the ground via an imposing group up front. It’s a simple but effective brand of football.
Having a talent at quarterback the likes of Justin Herbert magnifies that brand, as his ability to carve up defenses and work off play action remains elite. But what happens when Herbert and the offense loses their foundation?
Because following Monday’s announcement from head coach Jim Harbaugh, the Chargers are expected to be without RB Omarion Hampton for at least a month as he heads to the injured reserve. Meaning the Chargers have now lost Rashawn Slater and Najee Harris for the year, with Hampton and Joe Alt missing a significant amount of time with ankle injuires.
That will force adaptation and reliance on Justin Herbert.
Chargers must become pass first offense following Omarion Hampton injury
The Chargers still have Quentin Johnston, Ladd McConkey, and Justin Herbert. Sooner rather than later, Alt will be back from his ankle injury. At which point the Chargers will have to go from being a run first team, to one that relies on Justin Herbert’s arm via an aerial attack. Of course, it will take protection for them to deliver, but it’s the best course of action right now.
To gain more insight on where the Chargers go from here, I spoke with Adam Holt of A to Z Sports.
“This sort of injury news really couldn’t have come at a worse time for Los Angeles. Amid a two-game losing skid, Hampton has been one of the few bright spots for the Bolts in recent weeks. His tackle breaking ability and burst when he finds space led to big plays that LA has lacked in the passing game since earlier in the season.”
“Coupled with massive hits to their offensive line and constant shifting upfront, life only gets more difficult for Justin Herbert and Jim Harbaugh’s staff. They must make adjustments and find unique ways to get the ball out quickly and into the healthy playmakers’ hands. That’s easier said than done, though. Herbert has been pressured 81 times in the past three matchups, per PFF. That sort of rate isn’t sustainable for an offense to find any rhythm, and losing Hampton only furthers those sort of issues on paper.” – Holt
It won’t be easy, but the onus is on Jim Harbaugh and his superstar QB now. The time for Justin Herbert to show he is among the elite is upon us. We’ll see if he can live up to the expectations and save the Chargers’ season.
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