Jim Harbaugh sees ‘a lot of work to be done’ as Chargers struggle in preseason opener

How much longer until Chargers starting quarterback Justin Herbert returns?

With backup Easton Stick commanding the offense, the Chargers’ starters struggled to move the ball during their 16-3 loss to Seattle Saturday night at SoFi Stadium, reminding fans how much the team needs Herbert.

Here are some key takeaways from the Chargers’ loss:

Short end of Stick

Chargers quarterback Easton Stick tries to get rid of the ball under pressure from Seattle Seahawks linebacker Derick Hall during the second quarter of a preseason game at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood on Saturday. (Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times)

The chemistry the team worked to build in Herbert’s absence was noticeably lacking from the first series, especially with other key offensive players Joshua Palmer, Gus Edwards and J.K. Dobbins held out.

The Chargers struggled mightily during their first six possessions with Stick at quarterback, resulting in five three-and-outs and one interception.

“Frustrating,” Stick said about his performance. “A bunch of three-and-outs and a turnover.”

Stick’s interception came on an overthrown deep pass intended for tight end Hayden Hurst, who took a hit to the legs that left him shaken up. The turnover set up a Seahawks touchdown.

Read more: Bad news for Chargers: Justin Herbert’s foot injury requires a boot for weeks

“I felt there was enough space between the linebacker and safety to get it in,” Stick said about his interception. “In hindsight, should have checked that ball down, especially with us backed up.”

Stick tossed several other inaccurate throws and near interceptions throughout the game.

While his last two drives of the half were far from impressive, the Chargers secured a first down at the 5:01 mark of the second quarter, leading to a 58-yard field goal by Cameron Dicker. It was the team’s only points of the game.

During the scoring drive, Stick scrambled for an 11-yard run and threw a 15-yard pass to Stone Smartt.

Stick completed five of 13 passes for 31…


Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/jim-harbaugh-sees-lot-done-044142148.html

Author : LA Times

Publish date : 2024-08-11 04:41:42

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