Chargers Lose 21-18; Harbaugh Urges Better Protection

The Los Angeles Chargers suffered their first loss, falling 21-18 to the winless New York Giants, who started rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart. Justin Herbert completed 23 of 41 passes for 203 yards with 1 TD and 2 INTs, and was hit 12 times Sunday (26 times across the last two weeks) amid heavy pressure and multiple sacks. Head coach Jim Harbaugh called the situation "very concerning," saying the team must do a better job protecting Herbert. Protection problems trace to major offensive-line injuries — Rashawn Slater is out for the season, Joe Alt exited with a suspected high-ankle sprain, and Mekhi Becton is sidelined — and replacements such as Austin Deculus struggled, allowing multiple pressures. Harbaugh’s pass-heavy playcalling (41 pass attempts to 12 rushes) drew criticism after rookie RB Omarion Hampton rushed for 128 yards and a touchdown, and the Chargers must address protection and offensive balance ahead of their game at Washington.