Following their bye week, the Chargers are set to take on the Patriots on Oct. 31 at 1:05 pm PT in hopes of getting back on track after being blown out by the Ravens.
Here are four important things to know about Los Angeles’ opponent ahead of the Week 8 bout:
The best rookie quarterback from this year’s class
Not Trevor Lawrence, not Zach Wilson, not Trey Lance, not Justin Fields, but Mac Jones, who is undoubtedly the most prolific passer from the 2021 draft class up to this point. After beating out Cam Newton for the starting job, Jones has started since Week 1, in which he has completed 70.4% of his throws for 1,779 yards and nine touchdowns. While he experienced some growing pains early in the season, Jones has shown steady growth as he looks more comfortable throwing to all areas of the field now.
How’s the run game?
After facing two of the better rushing offenses back-to-back in the Browns and Ravens, the Chargers are going up against a Patriots unit that’s far less superior, averaging just 95.4 yards on the ground. However, that number could be a lot higher on Sunday. Not only will New England be matched up against the league’s worst run defense, but the team’s new-look offensive line with Ted Karras at left guard and Michael Onwenu at right tackle could also be the recipe for success.
Decent defense
The Chargers’ offense will look to find its groove against a Patriots defense that is allowing 20 points per game (6th), 245 passing yards per game (16th), 105.6 rushing yards per game (11th). The last time Los Angeles and New England met, quarterback Justin Herbert was held to the least productive performance of his career. Head coach Bill Belichick stymied Herbert with an array of stunts/twists and disguised coverages.
Checking in on former Chargers
The Patriots have two notable players that used to suit up in the blue and gold: safety Adrian Phillips and tight end Hunter Henry. Phillips, the versatile defender, is currently New England’s highest-graded defensive player, per Pro Football Focus. He has 34 tackles, two tackles for loss, an interception, and a pass breakup. Meanwhile, Henry has been an integral piece on offense and special teams. He has caught a touchdown pass in each of the past four games and totaled 24 receptions for 264 yards.