The Chargers look to pick up their first win of the season as they face rivals the Raiders on Sunday afternoon.
Here are six key storylines ahead of the Week 2 matchup.
Bouncing back from the Week 1 flop and fixing the new offense
The Chargers entered the season with high expectations after pairing Justin Herbert with new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel, but they looked disjointed in the loss to the Cardinals. They managed just 14 points and 268 total yards, and they struggled on third downs and in the run game. McDaniel called the execution “shocking” and “a case of humble pie.” Getting the scheme to click quickly is the top priority.
Ladd McConkey’s availability
McConkey was the offense’s clear bright spot in Week 1 (five catches, 82 yards, touchdown) before exiting with a rib injury. He practiced on Friday but is listed as questionable.
If McConkey doesn't play, his absence would shift more responsibility to wide receivers Quentin Johnston, Tre’ Harris, newly acquired Marquez Valdes-Scantling, and the tight ends. How the Chargers adjust if he’s limited or out will heavily influence the game plan.
Getting the run game going
Hampton managed only 43 yards on 12 carries in the opener, and the overall ground game was ineffective. Establishing the run is central to McDaniel’s vision and would help protect Herbert while controlling the clock against a Raiders defense that generated pressure and five sacks in Week 1. Success here would also ease the burden on a still-adjusting offensive line, too.
Protecting Justin Herbert and answering the Maxx Crosby challenge
Herbert was sacked three times against Arizona. He now faces edge rusher Maxx Crosby and a Raiders front. The Chargers’ offensive line, which will field left guard Kayode Awosika as the starter at left guard after Trey Pipkins III was ruled out with a knee injury, must hold up, and Herbert needs cleaner pockets and better rhythm to avoid another inefficient outing. Right guard Cole Strange allowed five pressures last weekend.
Defense needs to be better
In the season opener, new defensive coordinator Chris O’Leary's group allowed 393 total yards and 26 points while recording only one sack late in the game. Arizona controlled the clock with a huge 37:31 to 22:29 time-of-possession edge, converting third downs with ease and finding easy completions to keep drives alive. Soft zone looks and limited pressure let Jacoby Brissett operate comfortably. Against the Raiders, those issues become more urgent. Las Vegas just ran the ball effectively with Ashton Jeanty and got efficient play from Kirk Cousins in their Week 1 win. Los Angeles needs to generate more pressure, force three-and-outs, and create negative plays.
Avoiding a 0-2 start in a critical early home game
The Chargers are still favored at home, but a 0-2 start would put them behind in the AFC West race right away, especially with a tough upcoming schedule. Jim Harbaugh’s team has won the last four consecutive meetings, yet the Raiders arrive with momentum under new head coach Klint Kubiak. Responding with urgency and cleaner execution at SoFi Stadium is essential to maintain early-season expectations.
This article originally appeared on Chargers Wire: 6 Chargers storylines ahead of Week 2 game against Raiders
