Thursday, November 4, 2021

Los Angeles Chargers Week 9 NFL Power Rankings

Throughout the 2021 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Here is where the Los Angeles Chargers rank in terms of average, best and worst:

  • Average ranking: 12.2 (12th)
  • Best ranking: 10th (USA Today)
  • Worst ranking: 15th (CBS Sports)

Below you will find a Week 9 roundup for the Chargers in our consensus 2021 NFL Power Rankings.

ESPN -- Rank: 12

Biggest Achilles' heel: Lack of consistency on offense

Never thought I'd write this, not with Justin Herbert at QB and the number of top receivers the Chargers have, but they have struggled at times, especially this past Sunday against the Patriots. Herbert threw two interceptions against the Pats (one of which was returned for a pick-six), which gives him six on the year. He had just 10 as a rookie. He hasn't been helped by his receivers, because of either drops (running back Austin Ekeler) or running the wrong routes (tight end Jared Cook). Worse yet, the Chargers have put themselves in tough third-down situations due to inconsistent play on first and second down. -- Shelley Smith

NFL.com -- Rank: 12

We've seen the ceiling of the Chargers' offense this season, and it's quite high. What surprises us is how low the floor is. The Bolts' attack was held in neutral for the second consecutive week on Sunday, a 27-24 loss to the Patriots that raises questions about where Los Angeles truly fits into the AFC pecking order. Justin Herbert threw for just 143 yards before a garbage-time scoring drive in the final minutes, and issues with pass protection and early-down efficiency were glaring. The Chargers' defense had its way with Patriots rookie Mac Jones and repeatedly gave the offense the opportunity to take control of the game, but Herbert and Co. couldn't do it.

CBS Sports -- Rank: 15

Losing two in a row is not a good look for this team. Justin Herbert has to pick up his play, but the offensive design isn't helping him.

USA Today -- Rank: 10

A pair of tough losses sandwiched their bye week, but QB Justin Herbert and Co. should get right as the schedule serves up more forgiving defenses.

The Athletic -- Rank: 12

How's the head coach? The Chargers were soundly beaten by the Ravens before their bye week. And while the final score against the Patriots was close, losing to them at home after two weeks to self scout and prepare for a Bill Belichick defense isn't great. Brandon Staley is going to need some serious Ted Lasso energy to make Chargers fans feel better, especially about an inefficient offensive performance.

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