Justin Herbert's game-changing play vs. Broncos should fuel early MVP buzz for Chargers QB

On L.A.'s ensuing offensive possession, the QB led the Chargers 43 yards on seven plays before kicker Cameron Dicker nailed a winning 43-yard field goal. Following the win, Chargers guard Trey Pipkins III raved about the throw to Allen. He also said it's the thing that should make the QB a candidate for highly coveted awards.

Trey Pipkins III says Justin Herbert is a league MVP candidate 

"Oh my gosh, bro. The dude is unbelievable," Pipkins said, per Eric Smith of the team website. "I have zero words. What can I say?"

"He was getting hit, making throws. He led us the entire time," the O-lineman continued. "If that's not MVP stuff, I don't know what is." 

As of Monday, FanDuel Sportsbook gives Herbert the third-best MVP odds (+600) behind Baltimore Ravens QB Lamar Jackson (+290) and Buffalo Bills QB Josh Allen (+250). He'll remain in the mix if he continues to rewrite the narrative about his career.

Entering the season, some considered Herbert a talented player who produced monster numbers but couldn't deliver in key moments. ESPN analyst Ryan Clark, a former Pittsburgh Steelers safety, said the QB has "been terrible" in big games before the start of the season. 

However, this season, Herbert has been brilliant when the lights are bright. He helped L.A. earn prime-time wins over the Kansas City Chiefs and Las Vegas Raiders in Weeks 1 and 2, respectively. Sunday's victory over AFC West rival Denver gave the Chargers a 3-0 start.

For those who still claim Herbert lacks the clutch gene, the numbers have said otherwise. Per Pro Football Focus, he had a 90.2 grade in the fourth quarter on Sunday, the best mark among QBs in the fourth quarter in Week 3.

It's still early in the season, but if Herbert stays cool under pressure, he could help the Chargers win their first AFC West title since the 2009 season. He could also prove he's on the same tier as past MVP winners, such as Allen, Jackson and Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes.