The playoff push continues for the Los Angeles Chargers when they host the Tennessee Titans. An emerging Justin Herbert and ferocious top-10 defense leads Los Angeles — winner of three of their last four games. Struggling to close games, the Titans made a positive step in Week 9 with an overtime win vs. the Patriots. The Chargers are favored by about a touchdown at home in this AFC matchup.
Herbert looks stellar after an early adjustment period to new coach Jim Harbaugh’s game plan. The first four outings saw Herbert only average 144 passing yards per game. Opening up the playbook the last four games, he nearly doubled his passing yards to 286 per contest.
Despite taking more shots downfield, Herbert maintains an impressive 10-to-1 touchdown-to-interception ratio — making up for a struggling Los Angeles running game. Lead back J.K. Dobbins regained his strong early-season form during Week 9’s win over Cleveland, giving the Chargers a much-needed boost from the backfield.
A well-rounded offense is required to move the ball on Tennessee’s No. 1 defense. The Titans allow the fewest passing yards per game and provide a stiff test for Herbert.
Ineffective offense keeps Tennessee from ascending. The Titans have scored more than 17 points in a game only twice all season. That’s problematic against a Los Angeles defense that is No. 1 in scoring, allowing only 12.6 points per game.
Quarterback Mason Rudolph manufactured a win against New England but could lose his job after three straight starts if regular starter Will Levis returns from injury. Both quarterbacks are turnover risks, with Levis having bigger issues taking sacks.
Tennessee’s 12th-ranked running game, behind running back Tony Pollard, has been a reliable bright spot in recent weeks, helping overcome shaky quarterback play.
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(Photo of Justin Herbert and J.K. Dobbins: Ronald Martinez / Getty Images)
