The Los Angeles Chargers’ bye week comes at a good time, even though the season is just starting. After their 17-10 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, the team is now 2-2 and looking to heal from injuries. This is the second year in a row the Chargers have a bye in Week 5.
“We would like it to be a little later, like right in the middle ideally, but it’s a good thing where we are now,” coach Jim Harbaugh said. “When it comes this early you want to get the team refreshed.”
Quarterback Justin Herbert is still dealing with a high right ankle sprain, but he moved better against the Chiefs than he did in the game against Pittsburgh on September 22. Herbert managed to scramble a few times and avoided some sacks.
Before the Chargers take at least four days off, Harbaugh wants to address some issues. The offense has scored a touchdown on its first drive in the last two games but hasn’t found the end zone afterward.
The running game has struggled without starting offensive tackles Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt. Harbaugh didn’t say when Slater might return from a pectoral injury or if Alt will be ready next week after an MCL strain.
On defense, the team aims to improve its run defense after allowing an average of 107.5 yards in the last two games. The Steelers and Chiefs converted 16 of 30 third-down attempts against them.
Linebacker Joey Bosa played just one series in Pittsburgh and missed the game against the Chiefs due to a hip issue.
Instead of a light practice or walkthrough on Wednesday, Harbaugh plans to hold a regular two-hour practice session.
