The Los Angeles Chargers have hired a new head coach. This time, it’s Jim Harbaugh, who is leaving Michigan Wolverines after 8 years in charge. With this change, an exciting offensive philosophy is set to grace the Chargers. You might already know it’s run, run, run gameplay. As an NFL fan, you might have heard that Michigan ran the ball 563 times last season. Therefore, don’t be surprised if the same happens once he takes over the reins in Los Angeles.
Amid the changes at the helm, quarterback Justin Herbert will play a key role in the Chargers’ success under Harbaugh. Justin will be in his fifth year starting for the Bolts, having played a pivotal role over the years. Although he has played an exceptional role by acting as the backbone while transforming the Chargers’ performances on-field, his contributions during Playoff runs are somewhat questionable, with the Bolts qualifying for the knockouts only once in the last four years.
Speaking on The Carton Show, Craig Carton pointed out recent head coach changes at the Chargers and made some interesting comments that might raise a few eyebrows. He said, “Between college and the pros, the dude’s had 6 head coaches; maybe he’s the problem.” While mentioning Justin in those quotes, Carton also called him a ‘Coach Killer’, comparing him with the likes of LeBron and KD. Meanwhile, Justin has failed to re-discover his form, as he did during the breakthrough season.
Herbert, in his rookie season, was a joy to watch in the NFL, both as a neutral and as a Bolts fan. He threw the ball for 4,336 yards and completed 396 passes, with 66.1% accuracy, 31 touchdowns, 10 interceptions, and a successful passing rate of 47.8%. This earned him the Offensive Rookie of the Year title while earning other accolades. With Harbaugh coming in, the style of Herbert’s motion, play could undergo slight changes.
Jim Harbaugh Boosting Justin Herbert’s Moral and the Chargers Playoff Chances
Harbaugh has the mammoth task of changing his team’s fortunes. To ensure this challenge is a success, he heavily relies upon Herbert’s footballing prowess. Notably, this might be the first time Jim has had an explosive quarterback in Herbert to coach. For starters, Jim must ensure Herbert remains fit throughout the season. In the last two seasons, the Bolts lost Justin to multiple injuries around the rib, shoulder and fingers. This disrupted his overall contributions, which further hit a roadblock when he missed the final four games last season due to a fractured right index finger.
USA Today via Reuters
Harbaugh has gone over and above to praise Herbart by calling him “an expert at football.” He believes Herbert can play anywhere on the gridiron, be it a tight end, edge rusher, or other positions. For Herbert, this is a huge boost in confidence based on the faith the new head coach is showing.By unlocking Herbert’s true capabilities, the Chargers might be able to start a new era in the NFL. Nevertheless, Jim has also brought some of his Michigan backroom staff, like DC Jesse Minter and strength coach Ben Herbert. So, it remains to be seen whether the Bolts can adapt to a new offensive style and defensive changes. Or will it be the same old story of inconsistency?
