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Justin Herbert criticized after Chargers loss to Cardinals in season opener

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 16, 2026, 8:00 AM

Last updated Sep 16, 2026

Justin Herbert criticized after Chargers loss to Cardinals in season opener

Summary

The Los Angeles Chargers suffered a 26-14 defeat to the Arizona Cardinals on September 13, 2026, at SoFi Stadium. Quarterback Justin Herbert's performance drew significant scrutiny, as he threw for 209 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Analyst Nick Wright labeled Herbert as 'average in everything' and pointed to the team's inability to score in the fourth quarter as evidence of ongoing struggles. Despite some opinions suggesting the loss could be an anomaly, others highlighted Herbert's continued failure to perform in high-pressure situations, with his QB Impact Score ranking 26th among qualifying quarterbacks. The Chargers aim to bounce back as they move forward in the season under new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Chargers lose 26-14 to Cardinals in season opener on September 13, 2026.
•Justin Herbert throws for 209 yards with one touchdown and one interception.
•Analysts criticize Herbert's consistency and ability in high-pressure situations.
•Herbert ranks 26th in QB Impact Score after Week 1.
•Next game will be crucial for Chargers to assess offensive adjustments.

Latest Updates

8:00 AMYahoo Sports — ‘He’s Just Average in Everything’ — NFL Analyst Makes Feelings Clear on Justin Herbert After Chargers’ ‘Indefensible’ Loss to Cardinals

What they're saying

"
Justin Herbert has spent years living in the gap between what the quarterback evaluators see and the postseason résumé critics point to. One ugly Week 1 performance was enough for Nick Wright to argue that the gap has finally closed.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Arizona Cardinals Los Angeles Chargers NFL Football