A game defined by a defensive play as the culmination of what were the four episodes prior to overtime
INGLEWOOD, California — In a season marked by inconsistency for the Los Angeles Chargers, their performance on Monday Night Football seemed headed for a loss.
The Chargers’ defense was stifling, forcing five turnovers from Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts, the most in the Super Bowl MVP’s career. But after a touchdown on the first offensive series, the Chargers’ attack stalled.
However, this time was different for the Chargers. In a thrilling 22-19 overtime victory, quarterback Justin Herbert rushed for 66 yards, the third-most of his career, just seven days after surgery for a broken left hand. And the Los Angeles defense managed to stop the ball when it needed it most, when safety Tony Jefferson intercepted Hurts to secure the victory in overtime.
It was the biggest win of the season for a Chargers team that appeared to be falling out of playoff contention, and it could help them advance to the postseason for the second straight year.
Los Angeles Chargers (9-4)
What to think of the quarterback’s performance? Herbert’s left hand injury clearly bothered him all night, but he played without many limitations, participating in plays from the middle, fighting for yards and absorbing hits. Herbert’s stats weren’t impressive (completing 12 of 26 passes for 139 yards), but part of that can be attributed to an Eagles defense that covered receivers and pressured him constantly. His performance with the broken hand was an encouraging sign for an offense heading into a four-game stretch in which each opponent competes for a playoff spot or a better seed (Kansas City, Dallas, Houston, Denver).
A weak point in the game plan: Pass protection.
The Eagles, without star defensive tackle Jalen Carter, pressured Herbert on 68.3% of his dropbacks, according to NFL Next Gen Stats, and sacked him seven times. A second-quarter pressure forced an interception after Eagles pass rusher Jaelan Phillips pushed tackle Bobby Hart into Herbert’s arm. Pass protection has been an issue all season, especially since Joe Alt’s season-ending right ankle injury in Week 9. Since then, Herbert has been sacked 21 times, tied for second most sacks in the NFL (Geno Smith, 30).
Trend to follow: Use between runners Omarion Hampton and Kimani Vidal.
With first-round rookie Hampton returning for the first time since Week 5, he and Vidal shined.
On the opening drive, they combined for 78 yards, culminating in a 4-yard passing touchdown by Hampton. Their workload was similar: Hampton with 13 carries and Vidal with 14, and the next few weeks will show whether this backfield should be shared or if Hampton will once again be the primary running back. — Kris Rhim
Next party: contra Kansas City Chiefs
Philadelphia Eagles (8-5)
Most surprising performance: Two little-known defensive players had a big impact on the game. Cornerback Adoree’ Jackson, the subject of much scrutiny amid the team’s search for a CB2 opposite Quinyon Mitchell, had an interception and two passes defended to continue his best play. Defensive tackle Byron Young made the most of his increased role in Jalen Carter’s absence with 1.5 sacks, two quarterback hits and a tackle for loss.
Trend to follow: Kicker Jake Elliott has missed three field goals and an extra point in his last three games. He failed to connect on a 48-yard attempt late in the second quarter on Monday. With the offense struggling, the margins are too tight to absorb an inconsistent kicking game long-term.
Important data: Barkley’s 52-yard touchdown run early in the fourth quarter was his 15th rushing touchdown of at least 50 yards in his career, including playoffs, tying him with Barry Sanders for second-most in NFL history, trailing only Adrian Peterson’s 16. Barkley entered Monday’s game with just one run of 40-plus yards on the season. — Tim McManus
Next party: vs. Las Vegas Raiders
