Despite being extremely shorthanded, the Los Angeles Chargers jumped out to a 10-0 lead over the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday and an upset appeared to be brewing. But they were never able to muster enough offense after that to score any more points and the defense, despite making Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs earn it, finally succumbed to defeat.
Following the 17-10 loss, the Chargers now drop to 2-2 on the season while the Chiefs improve to 4-0.
The Chargers rolled the dice by starting Justin Herbert as he dealt with a high ankle sprain, despite both starting tackles, Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater, being unavailable due to injury. Herbert held his own and the Chargers answered the call, but the Chiefs were able to win it in ugly fashion and continue to hold control over the AFC West division.
Looking up and down the Chargers' roster, we picked out some winners and losers from this game.
Los Angeles Chargers Week 4 winners, losers
Winner: Ladd McConkey, WR
The volume has not been there as much as expected for the rookie McConkey thus far, but he is providing Herbert with a solid target in the end zone.
He caught his second touchdown of the season in this game and led the team with 67 yards receiving. He was easily the top target in the passing game for the Chargers and really, the only threat.
Losers: The other wide receivers
The game plan for this one didn't call for Herbert to drop back and throw the ball all over the yard. In fact, that will seldom be the game plan with Jim Harbaugh. But aside from McConkey, the combination of Joshua Palmer and Quentin Johnston added just four receptions for 45 yards.
Herbert completed just 16 passes in this game. When that is the case, the running game has to be effective and the defense has to be sound. If not, you're not going to score enough points to win.
Loser: The rushing attack
The Chargers were credited with 24 rushing attempts in this game. They gained 55 yards on the ground. Knowing that Herbert might not be able to do much in the passing game with limited movement, the Chiefs focused on shutting down the run and it worked.
J.K. Dobbins had 32 yards on 14 carries and Gus Edwards gained just 19 yards on six attempts. The Chargers must turn to rookie Kimani Vidal following the bye week because Edwards has given them nothing this season.
Winner: Bud Dupree, OLB
With Joey Bosa out of action, the Chargers needed a player to step up and get after the quarterback. Bud Dupree did his part to keep the Chargers in this game, sacking Mahomes on two occasions.
Unfortunately, that wasn't enough to get the Chargers to the winner's circle.
The Chargers will be one of the first four teams to have their bye week before heading on the road to face the Denver Broncos in Week 6.
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