Chargers News: Fans Undervaluing Absence Of Injured Lineman
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Several factors led to yet another close game loss by Brandon Staley's group on Monday night against the Cowboys, but Jeff Miller of the LA Times stated one that may reign chief among them.
Penalties on the offensive line proved to be a big difference in the Chargers' most recent loss to Dallas, and the Bolts missed one of their best players in the trenches.
Holding calls and constant pressure forced Justin Hebert into poor throws in compromised downs and distances as Corey Linsley's absence loomed large for the second week straight.
The loss of veteran center Corey Linsley, who is dealing with a heart-related ailment, is probably a bigger deal than we make it out to be. Linsley is vital to this offense with his experience and ability to communicate, particularly for a team that — because of the typical crowd at SoFi Stadium — doesn’t play many home games.
Will Clapped again filled in as the team's starting center but failed to serve nearly the same role his All-Pro teammate does every week.
Austin Ekeler returned against a tough Dallas front but failed to get much traction due to poor run blocking all night long.
The Cowboys racked up five sacks on the evening in addition to their stout run defense, and Micah Parsons wreaked havoc all game long despite some poor results.
Stephon Gilmore struggled in coverage for a majority of the game, but the pressure in Herbert's face eventually made way for his big moment.
The veteran corner picked off Herbert with a three-point lead and sealed the game with under 90 seconds left in the game.
The proof is in the pudding. Linsley's absence and the team's scoring drop without him prove that LA's potent offense starts and ends with their dominant offensive line.
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