The Los Angeles Chargers lead the Washington Football Team, 13-9, at halftime in Week 1 of NFL action.
The Chargers dominated the football in the first half, holding the ball for just over 21 minutes. Los Angeles quarterback Justin Herbert completed 19 of 27 passes for 179 yards in the first half. Too often, it looked as if Herbert was playing simple pitch and catch with his receivers.
The Chargers’ lone touchdown came from running back Austin Ekeler, who scored from three yards out.
As a team, Los Angeles rushed for 56 yards on 15 attempts in the first half.
The big news for Washington in the first half was the injury to starting quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick. Fitzpatrick was driven into the ground on his right side, suffering an apparent hip injury. He is questionable to return.
Fitzpatrick was three of six for 13 yards and under constant pressure. Taylor Heinicke entered the game and completed two of four passes for 19 yards late in the second quarter. He helped lead Washington to a 48-yard field goal to trim the lead to 13-9 just before halftime.
Terry McLaurin did not receive one target in the first half. Logan Thomas caught two passes — both on Washington’s final drive — to set up the final three points of the half.
Running back Antonio Gibson was the offensive star for Washington in the first 30 minutes. He rushed for 40 yards on five carries, and also caught two passes for seven yards.
The good news for Washington is the Chargers dominated the first half, moved the ball up and down the field, yet only lead by four points. The Football Team was a good second-half team in 2020.
Washington will receive to begin the second half.