The Patriots knew that to beat the Chargers meant making quarterback Justin Herbert a non-factor.
Head coach Bill Belichick, who gave Herbert fits last season, did the same on Sunday with coverage disguises as well as a lot of pressure.
This time, it came primarily from the right side of Los Angeles’ offensive line.
The Bolts gave up 17 pressures to New England, per Pro Football Focus. Tackle Storm Norton and guard Michael Schofield combined for 11 of them.
Despite the ongoing pass protection problems the past two games, the Chargers are not planning on making any changes to those spots, coach Brandon Staley confirmed.
Without starters, Bryan Bulaga and Oday Aboushi, Norton and Schofield have been tasked with keeping Herbert clean but have struggled immensely.
Norton has allowed 32 pressures this season, third-most among tackles in the NFL.
Entering the season, the depth of the offensive line was a concern. But now, the inability to bring in competent backups has been exposed.
Even by using running backs and tight ends as additional blockers in an attempt to mitigate it, it has not worked.
“We have some protection issues, where this guy is getting sped up,” Staley said of Herbert. “We’re doing everything we can to help those guys, but what we got to do is stay out of known pass.”
Staley’s comment about keeping out of known pass refers to the ongoing issues with early-down efficiency, which continued to be an issue even after having a full week to improve in that area.
Instead of moving Matt Feiler to right tackle and sliding rookie Brenden Jaimes at left guard or making a trade, Staley is comfortable with the team’s current lineup.
It seems bold. Only time will tell if it pays off.