Brief

Chargers' offense stalls as Herbert looks confused under McDaniel

The Chargers lost 24-16 to the Bills as quarterback Justin Herbert appeared overwhelmed by the new offensive scheme.

By Felo News Desk · Published Thu, 01 Oct 2026 07:36:26 GMT

Los Angeles Chargers fell 24-16 to the Buffalo Bills on Sunday, with quarterback Justin Herbert described as “confused and overwhelmed” in the new offense, according to NFL Week 4 coverage by nypost.com.

What happened

Herbert completed 17 of 27 passes for 209 yards, one touchdown and one interception in the loss. Overall, he has completed 59.1% of his passes this season, accumulating 627 yards, three touchdowns and four interceptions over three games. The Chargers’ run game failed to gain momentum, and the receiving corps did not execute as expected, contributing to red‑zone struggles.

What the reports add

The article notes that offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel, hired after a successful stint with the Miami Dolphins, runs a scheme that demands quick releases and rapid decision‑making, which differs from Herbert’s deep‑throw, play‑action style. It also cites the team’s defensive effort, which forced five turnovers against Buffalo.

What was said

Dan Graziano, ESPN NFL Insider, wrote that an anonymous NFL evaluator told him Herbert “looks lost on the field.” Graziano added, “The run game can’t get going, the receivers haven’t taken the jumps we were promised, and Herbert has looked confused and overwhelmed by whatever it is he’s being asked to do out there.”

How it came about

McDaniel arrived after a four‑year head‑coaching stint with the Dolphins, where his offense ranked sixth in 2023 but fell to 19th in 2024 and 26th in 2025. The Chargers entered the season hoping the new coordinator would revitalize the attack, but early results have been disappointing, echoing concerns raised in Felo’s earlier coverage of the team’s 0‑3 start.

Key facts

Chargers lost 24-16 to the Bills (nypost.com)
Herbert completed 59.1% of passes for 627 yards, 3 TDs, 4 INTs in three games (nypost.com)
Mike McDaniel's offense emphasizes quick releases, differing from Herbert's deep‑throw style (nypost.com)