Chargers Fall to 0-7 With 24-9 Loss
The team has lost seven straight games and is outscored 63-13 in fourth quarters this season.
By Zoe Harrison ·
The Los Angeles Chargers lost 24-9 to the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday, extending their losing streak to seven games. The defeat dropped their record to 0-7 for the season. The offense scored only three field goals, all by kicker Cameron Dicker. The team was held scoreless in the second half.
Quarterback Justin Herbert threw for 257 yards, a season high. He also threw two interceptions, bringing his total to 10. That total is the highest in the NFL. The Chargers have not scored a touchdown in their last two games. They have failed to score a touchdown in the last nine quarters. The last time they scored a touchdown was a 42-yard run by Kimani Vidal in a loss to the Denver Broncos on Oct. 11.
The defense allowed the Rams to score on three of four possessions in the second half. Matthew Stafford directed touchdown drives on three of those four drives. One of those drives occurred during a two-minute drill before halftime. The Chargers are outscored 83-54 in second halves this season. They are outscored 63-13 in fourth quarters.
Coach Jim Harbaugh said the team failed to finish drives with touchdowns. He noted that turnovers and points allowed in the middle eight minutes of the game were key factors. Harbaugh confirmed that offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel will continue to call plays. McDaniel was not available for a post-game interview. His next scheduled session with reporters is Thursday.
The team had a bye week before this game. They did not use it to secure a win. The Chargers play the Houston Texans at home next Sunday. The Texans currently hold a 2-5 record. The Chargers then travel to Baltimore to play the Ravens on Nov. 16. They return home to host the New York Jets on Nov. 22.
The trade deadline is set for Nov. 10. Outside linebacker Khalil Mack is one player who may draw interest from other teams. Mack has been a Pro Bowl pick nine times in his 13-year career. He said he is focused on being where his feet are. He also said he is backing Herbert despite the team's struggles.
