Former Oregon Football Quarterback Justin Herbert may not be headed to the NFL Playoffs in 2020, but he has certainly turned some heads with his performance this season.
Justin Herbert helped to engineer the Los Angeles Chargers third straight comeback win in a row. This time, against the Denver Broncos. Herbert also threw his 28 touchdown pass of the season, breaking the rookie record for touchdowns in a season. The previous record was 27, set by Baker Mayfield last season. The Chargers have had an up and down season with injuries pretty much having a role from the start of the year.
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First, it was the offensive line, then part of the defense. Running Back Austin Ekeler missed time with an injury during a key stretch of the 2020 season. Los Angeles had more games lost by one score or less than I think any of us care to remember. The win over the Broncos Sunday gets them to an improved 6-9, winning their last three games in what could save Anthony Lynn’s job.
Herbert has been more impressive than anyone thought he would be this season. As the first round NFL Draft pick, it was expected that he would likely see a spot start or two behind Tyrod Taylor, who was named the starter at the beginning of the season. However, an injury put Taylor on the sideline and thrust Herbert into the spotlight. He has adjusted very well to the role.
Aside from throwing 28 touchdowns, with one game to go, the former Oregon Duck has also thrown for over 4000 yards in his first season as a starter. Only two other quarterbacks have completed the feat, which includes another former Oregon Duck, Dan Fouts.
The best the Los Angeles Chargers can hope for is to close out 2020 with four straight wins. They will travel to Kansas City to take on the Chiefs in a game that means more to LA than to Kansas City. A win would be a great momentum builder for the 2021 season. Finishing with a losing record will also likely help Los Angeles secure another important high NFL Draft pick.
The Chargers and Chiefs kickoff Sunday, January 3rd at 1:25 pm Pacific Time.