The Los Angeles Chargers playoff hopes took a massive hit on Sunday morning as they dropped another close game, this time to the Green Bay Packers. The final score was 23-20, and the loss sends LA to 4-6 on the year.
— Los Angeles Chargers (@chargers) November 19, 2023
The Bolts struggled to put together much on offense in this game but still had chances to win at the end. With less than 30 seconds remaining in the game, rookie wide receiver Quentin Johnson dropped a pass that likely would have been the go-ahead score.
#Chargers rookie WR Quentin Johnston dropped a crucial pass that would've put them in FG range.
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) November 19, 2023
Chargers lose by 3 and are now 4-6 on the season. pic.twitter.com/tM6V64eXa1
Quarterback Justin Herbert did his part and placed the ball perfectly for Johnson, but the rookie couldn't hang on. Some will blame him for the loss, but one play doesn't define a game.
This game saw multiple injuries on both sides, including defensive edge Joey Bosa for LA and running back Aaron Jones for Green Bay. It was a strange game all around, and honestly, neither side looked like the better team throughout.
The Chargers now find themselves two games under .500 once again, and they are playing catch-up in the standings. The AFC is loaded, so this loss hurts their chances of a playoff run, especially with their remaining schedule.
The Bolts head home to take on the Baltimore Ravens next week, and that will be no picnic. Baltimore is one of the best teams in the league, and their defense will create problems for LA.
They still also have games against the Buffalo Bills, the Kansas City Chiefs, and two against the Denver Broncos who have looked much better of late. The playoffs look like a long shot for this team right now, unless things drastically change.
If more of the same continues, head coach Brandon Staley will be let go. He entered the year on the hot seat, and it has only gotten warmed with every passing week.
It shouldn't be long now for Staley, and the Chargers have been arguably the most disappointing team this season. Sunday was a reminder that whatever the team is doing isn't working, and change is likely coming.
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