The Chargers’ undefeated hopes end after they leave Pittsburgh 2-1.
The Chargers got going fast, culminating in a Quentin Johnston touchdown at the end of the first quarter, his third this season. The Steelers answered quickly as Justin Fields ran the ball five yards into the end zone to tie it up at seven apiece. Things slowed until the Chargers got close enough for Cameron Dicker to make it 10-7.
The second half was an entirely different story for Los Angeles. The offense couldn’t get going, and it didn’t give the defense enough time to recover. The Steelers scored two field goals in the second half and topped it off with a 55-yard touchdown pass to Calvin Austin III, as the Steelers won 20-10.
Injuries plagued the loss for the Bolts. By the end of the game, Justin Herbert, Joe Alt, Rashawn Slater, and Joey Bosa were watching from the sidelines. Without their stars at QB and both OT spots, the Steelers defense was able to perform at an even higher level. On the most crucial drive of the game for LA, Taylor Heinicke was sacked three times, quickly ending all remaining hopes. Despite the loss, most Chargers fans are more worried about these players’ statuses moving forward than they are about their record.
Another problem that seems to keep making itself apparent for the Chargers defense is missing tackles. Both touchdown drives for Pittsburgh largely happened because of missed tackles, both of which were missed by star CB Asante Samuel Jr. Samuel is great in coverage, but has repeatedly made mistakes like these that change games. Before the front office gives him big money, they need to see some progress made in that area.
Of course, not everything is negative for LA after the loss. Young WRs Quentin Johnston and Ladd McConkey both had 44 yards. Johnston, adding another touchdown to his season on Sunday, is continuing to put together a case for why he ended up being a first-round pick in 2023. McConkey continues to look good, and these two may be able to carry the future of the Chargers passing game if they keep stacking up good performances.
While being 2-1 isn’t as good as being 3-0, there are still many reasons to be optimistic. The Chargers face the defending champion Chiefs in LA next week. Their biggest challenge yet, they can send a real message to the league by beating the league’s best. Of course, doing so will be near impossible with a backup QB and backup tackles in. Heading into week four, fans need to watch for the injury development of those offensive playmakers and how likely they are to play next week.