Quarterback Justin Herbert has solidified himself as a legitimate MVP candidate in his sophomore season.
Herbert currently ranks fourth in the NFL with 294 passing yards per game, third with 30 passing touchdowns, first with a quarterback rating of 67.35, and tied for first with five game-winning drives.
When the Chargers meet the Chiefs on Thursday night, he will have a great opportunity to further make his case, as Herbert has proven to shine bright under the primetime lights.
In Herbert’s four career games in primetime, he is 97-of-145 passing for 1,182 yards, 12 touchdowns, one interception, and a rushing touchdown.
The last time Herbert faced Kansas City came back in Week 3, where he put together an impressive performance – finishing with four touchdowns.
However, since then, the Chiefs’ defense has done a complete 360.
Amid their six-game win streak, Kansas City has allowed just 9.6 points per game, which ranks second in the NFL. In addition, the unit has been stingy, posting 15 takeaways in their last five outings.
Herbert should benefit from the return of Keenan Allen, who missed last weekend’s win over the Giants. However, he will be without his blindside blocker, Rashawn Slater, who was ruled out with COVID-19.
If we know one thing about Herbert, it’s that pressure rarely phases him. But against a team like the Chiefs, who are one of the best at getting to opposing quarterbacks, Joe Lombardi will need to draw up a solid game plan.
While not an ideal scenario, the Chargers can mask his absence and make life easier for Slater’s fill-in, Trey Pipkins, with extra blockers, moving the pocket, and simplified half-field reads.
A win led by Herbert not only allows the Chargers to control their destiny en route to the first AFC West title since 2009 but increases the chances of him being recognized as the league’s most valuable player.