Herbert chokes in fourth quarter as Chargers fall

By the Editorial Team · Monday, October 12, 2026

The Los Angeles Chargers lost their fifth straight game, falling 23-17 to the Denver Broncos amid multiple turnovers and injuries that weakened their offensive line and defense. With an 0-5 start for the first time since 2003, the Chargers face a tough schedule ahead and must improve ball security and quarterback protection to avoid a similarly disappointing season.

The Los Angeles Chargers suffered their fifth consecutive loss Sunday, falling 23-17 to the Denver Broncos in a turnover-ridden contest marked by missed opportunities. Despite a standout 42-yard touchdown run by quarterback Justin Herbert that briefly gave the Chargers the lead late in the third quarter, costly errors in the fourth quarter ultimately sealed their defeat.

Herbert’s struggles in the final quarter were pivotal. After successfully converting a fourth-and-one attempt earlier, he fumbled on the subsequent possession and threw an interception on the next drive. Following a defensive stop, the Broncos leveled the score before gradually pulling ahead. Herbert was under pressure throughout the game, enduring five sacks, and ending with one fumble and one interception. The Chargers’ offense was frequently hampered by a depleted and inexperienced offensive line, forced to start four rookies, three of whom serve as backups, due to injuries sustained by starting tackles Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater. Both players had been sidelined since the previous week’s loss against the Seattle Seahawks.

The Chargers’ injury woes extended beyond the offensive line. All-Pro safety Derwin James Jr. missed his second consecutive game with a hamstring injury, and the team was also without their top receiver, Mike Williams. These absences contributed to the team’s ongoing struggles on both sides of the ball.

This loss leaves the Chargers with an 0-5 record to start the season, marking their worst start since 2003 when they also began 0-5 before finishing with a 4-12 record. Herbert’s difficulties have persisted from last season, as he has now recorded seven straight games with at least as many interceptions as touchdowns dating back to 2023.

Looking ahead, the Chargers face another challenging stretch, with an upcoming road game against the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday followed by a matchup with the Los Angeles Rams after a bye week. As the season progresses, the Chargers will need to address their turnover issues and find a way to protect Herbert better if they hope to reverse their fortunes.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.