Obviously, much analysis and commentary regarding the season as coaches and GMs have been fired already with the Charger's issues summed up pretty succinctly.
Justin Herbert's arm and exciting escape acts disguised the fact the majority of the Charger's games were in the balance. With the talent on board they should not have been in that compromised a position.
No one has an issue with a fourth down play at a non crucial juncture. However, continually relying on a 'last resort' play puts Herbert and the offense under immense pressure. Further it masks the fact that not enough emphasis was placed on defense to avoid such situations in the first place. Which lets face it is odd when Staley is a defensive co-ordinator
None of this is rocket science. But, the troubling thing is this cavalier play went on all season without adjustment. And to me it just felt like a hugely wasted opportunity. The first full season with attendance at the SoFi stadium which is spectacular - that was an enormous lift for the two LA teams which was not capitalized on by the Chargers.
I would say I am not quite at the point where I seriously question Brandon Staley...but...I will admit I am tired of that post-game demeanor of 'well, these things happen' as if there is nothing to address when clearly there is. As the season went deep I just inadvertently kept posing to myself how would Herbert and the Chargers perform under a better coach?
I am not necessarily there yet, but if Staley doesn't exhibit some real growth next season then...oof.
