Chargers prepare for regular season opener against the Cardinals on Sunday
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 11, 2026, 4:17 AM
Last updated Sep 11, 2026

The Los Angeles Chargers open their 2026 NFL season at home against the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday, September 13. This game marks the debut of offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel, who replaces the team’s previous run-heavy system with a motion-oriented passing scheme. Justin Herbert will operate behind a reconstructed offensive line featuring newcomers at center and guard, while the defense transitions under new coordinator Chris O'Leary. The defensive unit faces an early challenge against Cardinals quarterback Jacoby Brissett, even as the team manages injuries at linebacker. Coaching staff decisions regarding target distribution among wide receivers and tight ends remain a focal point for the opening contest. Kickoff is scheduled for 1:25 PM PT at the Chargers' home venue.
- •Mike McDaniel debuts his motion-heavy offensive scheme for the Chargers.
- •Jake Slaughter steps into the starting center role due to injury.
- •Chris O'Leary implements a new defensive strategy against Jacoby Brissett.
- •The game takes place on Sunday, September 13, at 1:25 PM PT.
- •Denzel Perryman remains on injured reserve for the opening week.
- 4:17 AMYahoo Sports — 5 Chargers storylines to watch in season opener against the Cardinals
"The Chargers will kick off their 2026 NFL regular season at home against the Cardinals. Here are five key things to watch for during the game.
Sources
External linksOriginal reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days
NFL•Sep 11, 2026, 6:00 AMSeahawks receive a positive injury update for Week 3 game vs. Commanders
NFL•Sep 11, 2026, 5:59 AMMatthew Stafford looks rusty in blowout loss
NFL•Sep 11, 2026, 5:58 AM‘Didn’t Think It Was Wise,’ ‘Drunk up All the Rat Poison’ — NFL World Rips Sean McVay’s Travel Plan for Rams After Loss to 49ers
NFL•Sep 11, 2026, 5:49 AM‘Rams Are Simply Lost,’ ‘Night and Day Difference’ — NFL World Hits Panic Button As LA’s Offense Gets Exposed Without OC Mike LaFleur
NFL•Sep 11, 2026, 5:48 AMRams Clear Sean McVay Favorite After Ominous Injury News
NFL•Sep 11, 2026, 5:44 AM49ers rout Rams behind Purdy’s three TDs as NFL draws 100,000 to Melbourne
