Chargers Offensive Woes and Justin Herbert's Hustle & Preview vs. the Commanders

On this episode of Bleav in Chargers, Matt 'Money' Smith and Lorenzo Neal break down the Chargers’ disappointing loss to the New York Giants, pointing out sloppy play, excessive penalties, and ongoing issues with the offensive line as key factors. Looking ahead to the game against the Washington Commanders, they highlight the need for adjustments, emphasizing a bigger commitment to the run game and also stressing the importance of containing mobile quarterbacks, a recurring issue for the defense.
[00:01:15] - Post-Game Reflection and Setup Issues
the difficult setup for the Chargers against the Giants, focusing on game timing and the physical hangover from the prior week.

[00:03:14] - Chargers’ Sloppy Play and Early Game Struggles
Matt reviews the team’s penalties, special teams miscues, and execution errors, analyzing why they looked flat in a 10am game.

[00:07:47] - Backup Linemen and O-Line Struggles
the impact of offensive line injuries, backup performance, and the need for front office moves to bolster protection.

[00:09:31] - Difficulty Acquiring Offensive Linemen & Running Game Emphasis
Matt explains the scarcity of available linemen and stresses the importance of running the ball to protect Herbert.

[00:11:29] - Defensive Adjustments & Run Blocking
Both discuss the run game, the need for more 12 personnel, and the importance of wear on defense and giving Herbert protection via the ground game.

[00:14:26] - Tight End Usage and Lack of Depth
disappointing output from tight ends blocking/running, and the team's signings due to injuries.

[00:16:29] - Mandatory Knee Braces for O-Line
Lorenzo brings up the idea of making knee braces mandatory for linemen given injury trends.

[00:17:31] - Specific O-Line Injuries and Protection Stats
Matt details who is out, who is banged up, and how the Chargers’ O-line metrics look in terms of pressure and performance.

[00:20:09] - Effects of Persistent Pressure on Herbert
quarterback success when pressured on half his throws, and discuss potential scheme adjustments.

[00:22:15] - Issues with Drops and Missed Opportunities
key drop by Ladd, a lack of quick passing game, and the need to support Herbert with easier completions.

[00:24:24] - Fullback and Tight End Blocking Mechanisms
Lorenzo discusses specifics about backfield blocking, balance, and how better formations could improve run game efficiency.

[00:27:04] - State of the Chargers (3–1) and Upcoming Schedule Outlook
upcoming matchups, the importance of banking wins early due to schedule, and injury context.

[00:31:11] - Previewing Washington Commanders; Defensive Front Challenges
the Commanders’ D-line and review recent Commanders game plans that could challenge the Chargers' O-line.

[00:32:52] - Homecoming & O-Line Redemption Opportunity
Lorenzo emphasizes home-field energy, pride, and what he wants to see from the O-line after last week’s embarrassment.

[00:35:31] - Defense Must Contain Mobile Quarterbacks
the defense’s recurring struggles against mobile QBs and what needs to change vs. Washington.

[00:36:36] - Mental & Physical Approach After Underestimating Giants
Lorenzo describes the dangers of underestimating the opponent and why mindset must shift for the offense and O-line.

[00:39:08] - Giants Game Recap by the Numbers
Statistical breakdown: yards per play, time of possession, rushing first downs, third down conversions—all highlighting why the Chargers lost.

[00:43:02] - Running Back Depth and Usage Concerns
Matt critiques the lack of RB utilization, demands change in personnel rotation to keep the run game effective.

[00:44:00] - Establishing the Run via Quick Passes and RBs in Space
Lorenzo adds how using the RB in the pass game can function as a run game extension.

[00:44:28] - Chargers Upcoming Challenge: Must Score Points
the Commanders’ offensive output, says the Chargers need to at least hit 24 points to stay in games.

[00:45:25] - Defensive Front Preferences and Rotational Tweaks
kind of defensive front he wants to see to set the edge and prevent QB scrambles.

[00:46:44] - Prioritizing Physicality and 12 Personnel on Offense
Lorenzo underscores the importance of the “beef” up front with bigger personnel groupings and establishing line of scrimmage dominance.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.