Chargers News: Justin Herbert leads Chargers to victory over Raiders in season opener

Justin Herbert showcased his abilities in the Los Angeles Chargers' season opener against the Las Vegas Raiders, leading his team to a 22-10 victory.

Despite relatively modest statistics—completing 17 of 26 passes for 144 yards, one touchdown, and no interceptions—Herbert's efficiency was paramount.

Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh, recognizing the impact of Herbert's performance, stated , "The talent is there in every single way. He really has it all."

This game elucidated how the Chargers' strategy embraced a strong ground game rather than relying solely on Herbert's arm.

In the match, running back J.K. Dobbins carried the burden well, rushing for 135 yards and a touchdown on just ten carries, while the team accumulated a total of 176 rushing yards, averaging an impressive 6.5 yards per carry.

Herbert acknowledged the significance of such a running game, stating , "It changes the game to be able to run the ball like that."

This approach not only alleviates pressure on the quarterback but also establishes a rhythm that fosters team confidence.

The Chargers faced a challenging fourth quarter, trailing by one point at 9-7 before Herbert propelled his team forward.

He orchestrated two critical touchdown drives, including a decisive 92-yard scoring drive that ultimately sealed the victory. Herbert's resilience under pressure was a clear indication of his growth and ability to perform when it mattered most.

He remarked , "Being able to stay strong in the fourth quarter... those guys didn’t feel it," highlighting the effective conditioning and mental fortitude of the team.

The atmosphere surrounding the Chargers has notably shifted since Harbaugh took over, contributing to a renewed sense of optimism among the players.

Herbert's final takeaway from the game reflected on the competitive nature of the NFL, emphasizing that “Winning these NFL games is tough... we’ll take as many as we can.”

Such a mindset could be crucial as the season progresses, as every victory counts in the quest for playoff positioning.