Herbert Impresses in Loss to Reigning Champs

Scott Long

9/22/20

First starts are always difficult for NFL players in their rookie year, as players are typically overcome with nerves. Justin Herbert experienced this first hand this week when he was thrown into the fire last minute for his first career start against the Kansas City Chiefs, last year’s Super Bowl Champions.

Despite being at home the Los Angeles Chargers were heavy underdogs against the Chiefs, and things began to look bleaker for the Chargers just before game time. Starting quarterback Tyrod Taylor had dealt with a rib injury earlier in the week but prepared to play, but during warmups he hurt his chest and was forced to go to the hospital causing head coach Anthony Lynn to make a last second change. Herbert told reporters that he found out he would be starting the game, 10-15 seconds prior to the game, and despite saying he has been preparing all offseason as if he were the starter, this has got to be difficult for a young player, particularly since he had no time to prepare.

This didn’t phase Herbert though as he came out strong leading the Chargers down the field to an opening drive touchdown capped off by his 4-yard rushing touchdown. While he made a few rookie mistakes, Herbert didn’t seem phased by the pressure as he finished 22 of 31 for 311 yards with one touchdown and one interception, while leading the Chargers to a well fought 23-20 loss with 1:55 remaining in Overtime.

Despite the loss the Chargers must be pleased with the performance put in by Herbert, and the fact that they were able to keep pace with Kansas City’s high-powered offense. But, even though he played well, Lynn told reporters “If he’s 100 percent ready to go, he’s our starter,” when asked post game about Tyrod Taylor. The veteran quarterback is expected to have a huge impact on the development of Herbert, and Lynn clearly believes Herbert can learn a lot by sitting behind Taylor and watch him go about his day-to-day work as the starting quarterback.

Whether this actually happens remains to be seen, but either way the Chargers believe that they have a bright future with Herbert, who should only get better with more experience and as he builds up chemistry with his teammates, particularly: Keenan Allen, Austin Ekeler, Hunter Henry and Mike