The Los Angeles Chargers had a costly protection breakdown at one point during the eventual win over the Denver Broncos in Week 16. 

While the Chargers indeed ended up winning the game, quarterback Justin Herbert was immediately under pressure after the snap in one key scenario that could have swung the outcome. 

Understandably, much of the heat on the play was directed at the interior offensive linemen for letting a free pass-rusher through to Herbert. 

But pro offensive lineman trainer Duke Manyweather directed all of the blame on the play at running back Hassan Haskins. 

He wasn’t alone, either. Former pro lineman Andrew Whitworth commented on the post, too, screencapping the moment Haskins apparently realized he messed up: “This is me when I forgot to put toilet lid down and I just heard wifey wake up! Also great indicator for when RB’s messed it up!”

So, maybe sometimes things aren’t as cut and dry as they seem, right?

While the interior offensive line has been a weak point, especially compared to stellar tackles Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt, Haskins’ lack of reps in the base offense apparently showed up big on this particular play. 

— Enjoy free coverage of the Chargers from Los Angeles Chargers on SI —

More Los Angeles Chargers News:

Here's how Chargers can clinch a playoff spot while resting on Sunday

Skip Bayless demands Chargers' Jim Harbaugh win Coach of the Year

Is it time for Chargers fans to panic over the play of second-year WR?

Chargers WR takes shot at Justin Herbert's critics

Derwin James halftime speech revived Chargers on primetime

Los Angeles Chargers named trade suitor for Dolphins' Tyreek Hill


This article was originally published on www.si.com/nfl/chargers/ as Former NFL OL defends Chargers players for key miscue vs. Broncos.