EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — This week marks an important turning point for the Los Angeles Chargers, particularly for their defense. Following a disappointing performance that saw them concede 512 yards in a 40-17 defeat to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, the Chargers are swiftly pivoting their focus towards their upcoming game against the Denver Broncos. This Thursday night contest is significant, as it holds playoff implications for both franchises within the AFC West.
In order to secure a victory, defensive coordinator Jesse Minter’s squad must rebound from what many consider their poorest showing of the season. Safety Derwin James Jr. emphasized the onus lies on the players to rectify their mistakes. “It doesn’t matter what the Broncos do; it’s about our execution,” he remarked. The players recognize they must take ownership of their performance and aim for effective plays on the field.
A primary concern for the Chargers’ defense is their ability to get off the field during critical moments. Earlier in the season, the Chargers successfully held opponents to only a 33.3% conversion rate on third downs. However, in their recent outings against Kansas City and Tampa Bay, they saw a disheartening decline, permitting 17 conversions out of 30 attempts, with some resulting in touchdowns. Moreover, the team has not forced a single punt in five quarters and has witnessed the opposition score during 10 of the last 13 drives.
“It’s always a cause for concern when performances drop off,” Minter admitted. “We’ve seen both strong and weak phases, and we need to leverage our foundation to make the necessary adjustments and progress.” A crucial aspect that they will face Thursday night is the challenge posed by Denver quarterback Bo Nix, who has showcased his mobility by scrambling for 60 yards on six attempts in previous games. Both Patrick Mahomes of Kansas City and Baker Mayfield from Tampa Bay also exploited the Chargers’ defense, a trend Minter hopes to halt.
Nix ranks high among quarterbacks with 38 scrambles, accumulating 264 yards while racking up a total of 327 rushing yards. James complimented Nix’s development, stating, “He’s performing well for a rookie. He has taken control of the offense and distributes the ball effectively.” The Broncos have recently appeared more formidable, scoring at least three touchdowns in consecutive games for the first time this season.
After the loss to the Buccaneers, linebacker Khalil Mack expressed the necessity for the Chargers to bring elevated energy into their next game. He pointed out that their lackluster enthusiasm was evident not only during the match but also while reviewing the game footage afterward. “We need to ignite some energy and excitement. From the very first play, it was apparent that we didn’t have it,” Mack stated. “We played as if it was just another routine game, which we cannot afford.”
Despite a rough stretch, with three losses in the last four games, the Chargers (8-6) still have a chance to clinch a playoff berth with a win over the Broncos. If the Indianapolis Colts and Miami Dolphins lose on Sunday, the Chargers could secure their spot. Currently, they sit at the seventh seed in the AFC, facing potential matchups against top contenders like Buffalo or Kansas City in the first round.
As for the team’s health, quarterback Justin Herbert is managing through a sprained left ankle and was limited during Tuesday’s practice. On the other hand, offensive lineman Zion Johnson (ankle) did not participate for a second consecutive day and is likely out for Thursday’s game, paving the way for Jamaree Salyer to step in.