"Was the Chargers' loss to the previously winless New York Giants a mere blip or an omen of what life's going to be like with a patchwork offensive line? Sunday's game will be a test of that, because even though the Washington Commanders aren't quite as imposing along the defensive line, they can still rush the passer. The Chargers defense has been playing well but tends to struggle with mobile quarterbacks."
"Enter Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels, last season's Offensive Rookie of the Year who is recovering from a sprained knee. He won't have his top receiver, Terry McLaurin, who is dealing with a quadriceps injury. Meanwhile, Chargers receiver Keenan Allen needs two catches to reach 1,000 for his career, and has a chance to hit that milestone in fewer games than anyone in NFL history. This will be his 159th game. Hall of Famer Marvin Harrison has the record, collecting his 1,000th catch in his 167th game."
Chargers' loss to the previously winless Giants raises concern about the effect of a patchwork offensive line. Sunday's game against the Washington Commanders will test whether the defeat was an anomaly or a sign of persistent protection issues. The Commanders can still rush the passer despite a less imposing defensive front. Chargers' defense plays well but struggles with mobile quarterbacks; Jayden Daniels is mobile and recovering from a sprained knee and will be without top receiver Terry McLaurin. Keenan Allen needs two catches to reach 1,000 career receptions, potentially in 159 games. Chargers must protect Justin Herbert, get rookie Omarion Hampton going, and maintain gap discipline. Commanders should limit explosive plays, sustain the running-by-committee approach, and let Daniels use his legs.
Read at Los Angeles Times
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