The Los Angeles Chargers could be without their franchise quarterback, Justin Herbert, in Week 3 against the Steelers.
Jim Harbaugh hinted at who might be the starting quarterback in Pittsburgh if Herbert is ultimately ruled out, but wouldn't commit to a definitive starter.
According to The Athletic's Diana Russini, the Chargers are planning a run-heavy game with or without Herbert.
Russini: Chargers planning run-heavy game with or without Justin Herbert in Week 3.
— Underdog NFL (@Underdog__NFL) September 21, 2024
Coming into Week 3, we suspected the Chargers would rely heavily on the run game, even with Herbert playing. Now, with his status up in the air, J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards will be poised for heavy workloads.
In Week 2 against the Carolina Panthers, Edwards had 18 rush attempts, while Dobbins had 17 attempts, and we expect more of the same in Week 3. Edwards has struggled, garnering just 2.82 yards per carry. This will be a tough matchup but also a good opportunity for him to get things rolling with the amount of touches he will see on Sunday.
It's worth noting that the Chargers could be using this as a smoke-and-mirrors tactic. The offense's first play off the bat could be a play-action deep shot to rattle the Steelers' defense. But knowing the way OC Greg Roman utilizes offenses, plenty of run plays will be drawn up for Edwards, Dobbins, and possibly some of the receivers.
We could witness a run game that turns into a field goal fest in Week 3, especially if Herbert is ruled out. Cameron Dicker will have a significant role on Sunday, as the team might rely on him more to get points on the board against a stingy Steelers defense.
MORE CHARGERS NEWS
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