Domination and weaponry headline biggest takeaways as Chargers stun Chiefs with statement win in Brazil

Keenan Allen had a prolific second half, and it was clear how much Herbert trusts the veteran to be in the right place at the right time.

But this was a special night for Quentin Johnston. He might not be your typical volume , possession 6-3 receiver, but Greg Roman gave indications of how the former first-rounder can be productive. On the first drive, Johnston caught a short throw and generated an explosive play with the ball in his hands. He finished off the drive with a touchdown reception, wide open in the end zone.

In the second half, Johnston was targeted in the end zone once again, but dropped a would-be touchdown. Well, he would have a chance to redeem himself in the fourth quarter, with another TD catch. He led the team with five receptions for 79 yards.

Domination upfront

Rashawn Slater is out for the season, Mekhi Becton had an illness and had his participation in question until gametime. Those would be obvious concern factors for the Chargers, but the offensive line dominated the line of scrimmage.

Even moving from right to left tackle, Joe Alt showed exactly why Los Angeles took him with the fifth overall pick a year ago. Trey Pipkins was also solid at right tackle, and quarterback Justin Herbert consistently had plenty of time in the pocket to find his targets.

Jim Harbaugh always values strong play along the line of scrimmage, and this is what the coaching staff and front office are creating—despite the unfortunate challenges.

The Chiefs had to send more bodies in the second half to generate pressure, which opened more passing lanes—especially for Keenan Allen.

Jesse Minter is a great defensive mind

As expected, the Chargers bet on their defensive front to stop the run with fewer bodies, playing two high safeties for most of the game. The defense did allow separation to Tyquan Thornton on multiple occasions, but the unit is clearly well coached, with smooth zone transitions.

The defensive front had some issues to generate pressure on the edges, but the interior took advantage of a Chiefs' offensive line without Joe Thuney to create havoc and affect Patrick Mahomes. Defensive tackle Da'Shawn Hand had a strong performance.

The Chiefs adjusted the gameplan in the second half after losing Xavier Worthy early in the game, and were able to move the ball with shorter throws. But that late fourth down conversion was more of an exception after a solid game from the defensive backs.