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Good news and bad news in the 17-15 loss to the Cardinals.

Good news and bad news in the 17-15 loss to the Cardinals.

Los Angeles Chargers defensive back Justin Herbert (10) throws against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium in Glendale on Oct. 21, 2024.
Photo: Joe Rondone/Republic/USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Los Angeles Chargers fall to 3-3 on the season after a disappointing performance on Monday night. Justin Herbert’s solid play wasn’t enough to secure the win as the Chargers lost to the Arizona Cardinals 17-15.

Justin Herbert had his best pass of the season.

Star quarterback Justin Herbert played for the Chargers in prime time on the road. He threw for a season-high 349 yards on 69.2% completion and zero interceptions. However, he also did not throw a single touchdown pass as the Chargers offense struggled to score points.

Syndication: Arizona Republic
Photo: Joe Rondone/Republic/USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Herbert has been plagued by injuries and, as a result, has been inconsistent this season. It was a solid step in the right direction for the 2021 Offensive Rookie of the Year. If he continues to pass at a high level, the Chargers could soon turn the tide of their season.

Chargers rushing attack fails

The Los Angeles Chargers had the best rushing attack in the NFL through the first two weeks of the season. However, things have completely fallen apart since then as they now average just 116.3 yards per game.

As a team, the Chargers gained just 69 yards against the Cardinals. J.C. Dobbins led the team with 40 yards on 14 carries. The Bolts need to rekindle the flame that fueled their rushing attack earlier in the season.

Stopping the run was a problem in Arizona

Syndication: Arizona Republic
Photo: Joe Rondone/Republic/USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Cardinals’ rushing offense affected the Chargers’ defense. Arizona totaled 181 yards in the contest, led by RB James Conner, who gained 101 yards on 19 carries. Murray also added 64 yards at quarterback on six carries, including a 44-yard touchdown rush.

Where was the Chargers pass?

The Chargers defense didn’t record a single sack against QB Kyler Murray and the Cardinals in Week 7. Los Angeles ranks 25th in the NFL this season with just 13 sacks through seven weeks. Joey Bosa was sidelined again this week with injury and his absence will be felt.

Cameron Dicker was the player of the game

NFL: Los Angeles Chargers - Arizona Cardinals
Photo: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

It’s usually not a good sign when your kicker is the man of the game, but the Chargers really enjoyed some outstanding play from Cameron Dicker. He was 5-for-5 on field goals in the contest, scoring all 15 of the Chargers’ points with his longest kick of 59 yards.

Ahead of Week 8 against the Saints

The Chargers will look to get back above .500 from last year in Week 8 with a win over the New Orleans Saints. At 3-3, the Chargers trail in the AFC West standings, ahead of the 6-0 Kansas City Chiefs and 4-3 Denver Broncos. The Chargers need to start getting wins if they want to be in the Wild Card race.

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