Jim Harbaugh’s return to the NFL marked a successful season for the Los Angeles Chargers, who performed well under his leadership. For the first time since the 2018 season, they clinched a playoff spot after winning over 11 games during the regular season.
Despite this achievement, the Chargers faced a disappointing defeat in the wildcard round against the Houston Texans, losing 32-12. Quarterback Justin Herbert struggled in this game, throwing four interceptions.
Chargers legend Shawne Merriman has emphasized the need for Herbert to enhance his playoff performance.
Herbert undoubtedly possesses the talent to excel in the league.
His impressive 2021 season is a testament to this, as he threw for more than 5,000 yards and achieved a total of 41 touchdowns, while only throwing three interceptions during the regular season this year.
Yet, he must replicate this level of performance in the playoffs.
The recent playoff game likely represented the worst performance of his career.
Herbert managed to complete only 14 passes out of 32 attempts, accumulating 242 yards, one touchdown, and four interceptions.
In a competitive conference featuring talents like Josh Allen, Patrick Mahomes, Lamar Jackson, Joe Burrow, and Bo Nix, Herbert will need to elevate his game significantly over the coming seasons.
Failure to do so may lead the Chargers to reconsider the substantial five-year extension they offered him in 2023.
