The Los Angeles Chargers have moved a little closer to securing an AFC playoff spot thanks to their 34-27 victory over the Denver Broncos that moved them to 9-6 on the season. That winning effort required a second-half reaction from Los Angeles that included some surprising plays from the offense.
The Chargers trailed throughout the game, but steadily outscored Denver in the second half, culminating in the league’s victory in the opening minutes of the fourth quarter thanks to an otherworldly play by Justin Herbert and Joshua Palmer.
With the ball at Denver’s 19-yard line, Herbert rolled to his left on a first-and-10 snap. With pressure on his face, it initially looked like the Chargers quarterback was going to throw the ball. He then found an open receiver at the last second, throwing a perfectly placed ball to wide receiver Derius Davis for the 19-yard score.
While people were still coming out of that amazing shot made by Herbert, Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh kept his offense on the field for a two-point conversion attempt that would give Los Angeles a lead in goals. field. That’s when Herbert fired a high ball up the middle to Palmer, who tipped it over and kept both feet infield to convert.
After the Chargers took the lead, they didn’t let go of the rope. The defense forced Denver into consecutive punts after that score, while the offense added another touchdown, giving them even more breathing room as they cruised to victory.
Herbert finished his night completing 23 of his 31 passes for 284 yards, two touchdowns and an interception while adding 28 yards on the ground.
This could prove to be a playoff win for Los Angeles in Week 16 if certain dominoes fall in their favor over the remainder of the upcoming slate. For the Chargers to clinch a playoff spot this weekend, they would need both the Dolphins and Colts to lose or tie their next matchups. On Sunday, Miami hosts the San Francisco 49ers, while Indy hosts the Tennessee Titans.
