Justin Herbert, Chargers Lament Inability to ‘Score More Points’ in Loss to Ravens
INGLEWOOD, Calif. – The Los Angeles Chargers left SoFi Stadium on Sunday night with a bitter taste in their mouths, lamenting their inability to find the end zone enough times in a 24-17 loss to the Baltimore Ravens.
Despite a valiant effort from quarterback Justin Herbert, who threw for 302 yards and a touchdown, the Chargers offense sputtered in critical moments, failing to capitalize on opportunities and ultimately costing them the game.
Offensive Struggles Hinder Chargers
The Chargers offense, which has been a force to be reckoned with this season, struggled to find its rhythm against a stout Ravens defense. Herbert was sacked three times and hit eight times, while the running game was held to just 70 yards on 19 carries.
“We just couldn’t score enough points tonight,” Herbert said after the game. “We had our chances, but we didn’t execute. I have to be better.”
The Chargers had several drives stall in Ravens territory, including a promising one that ended with a missed field goal in the third quarter. They also failed to convert on fourth down twice, including once in the red zone.
Ravens Defense Impresses
The Ravens defense played a pivotal role in the Chargers’ offensive struggles. Led by linebacker Patrick Queen and cornerback Marlon Humphrey, the Ravens held Keenan Allen, the Chargers’ leading receiver, to just four catches for 48 yards.
“Our defense played lights out tonight,” said Ravens head coach John Harbaugh. “They kept us in the game and gave our offense a chance to make some plays.”
Herbert’s Heroics Not Enough
Herbert, despite the pressure and the offensive struggles, put forth a valiant effort. He connected with Mike Williams for a 40-yard touchdown pass in the fourth quarter, but it was too little, too late for the Chargers.
“I’m proud of the way our guys fought tonight,” Herbert said. “We’re going to learn from this and come back stronger.”
Missed Opportunities Cost Chargers
The Chargers had numerous opportunities to win the game but failed to capitalize on them. In addition to the missed field goal and failed fourth-down conversions, they also had a crucial fumble in the first half that gave the Ravens the ball in scoring position.
“We had a lot of missed opportunities tonight,” said Chargers head coach Brandon Staley. “We have to be better at executing in those situations.”
Looking Ahead
The Chargers (5-3) will now look to bounce back next week when they travel to face the Atlanta Falcons. The Ravens (6-2) will host the New Orleans Saints.
“We’re not going to let this one loss define us,” Herbert said. “We’re going to work hard and come back better next week.”