Tag: Chargers-Falcons preview

Keys to a Chargers’ victory over Falcons in Week 14

Chargers Wire’s Gavino Borquez lays out how Los Angeles can defeat Atlanta in Week 14.

The Chargers are set to face off against the Falcons on Sunday. There are a few things that Los Angeles will need to do in order to a secure a victory.

Offensively, the Chargers need to max protect quarterback Justin Herbert to buy him some time to distribute the wealth, as he will be facing one of the league’s worst pass defenses, potentially leading to high production from the team’s skill players.

From a play-calling standpoint, it has to be better than it has been in recent weeks. The team needs to enforce more rollouts and play action plays for Herbert, where he has been far more efficient.

While Atlanta has been more disciplined against the run, they’re coming off a game where they allowed over 200 yards rushing. Therefore, running back Austin Ekeler could be in a big game.

Defensively, edge defender Joey Bosa and company must get to QB Matt Ryan, who’s been sacked 12 times in his last three games, early and often to eliminate his top target, Calvin Ridley. Even without Julio Jones, the coverage has to be sticky.

The Falcons will look to exploit their run defense, which means that nose tackle Linval Joseph will need to command double teams to allow the other members of the defense to roam freely to limit the ground game. Linebacker Kenneth Murray will need to play like he did last weekend, especially with Denzel Perryman doubtful.

Good opportunity for Chargers QB Justin Herbert to get back on track vs. Falcons

Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert was bad in Week 13 against the Patriots, but he gets a great matchup in Week 14 against the Falcons.

Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert is having quite the rookie season, as he’s made history and is on his way to shattering more NFL records ever since he took over as the starter back in Week 2.

However, he’s experienced some growing pains the past two performances, failing to complete 60% of his throws and has tossed three interceptions in that span. Last weekend against the Patriots, Herbert failed to throw a touchdown pass for the first time in his career of 11 games.

The offensive line, of course, is to blame, as Herbert has had very little time to throw. The play-calling has been mediocre, as well. But opposing defenses, particularly New England and Buffalo have done a great job at scheming against him.

Nonetheless, Herbert has a great shot at coming back to life this upcoming Sunday, facing a Falcons defense that has been poor against the pass, allowing the second-most passing yards per game. They also have one of the lowest interception percentages in the NFL.

Heading into this week, Herbert has completed 64.8% of his passes for 3,224 yards and 23 touchdowns, against just nine interceptions. If you own the former Oregon product in one of your fantasy football leagues, I advise you to start him this weekend.