Chargers QB Justin Herbert under fire: He 'has been terrible'

While Clark noted how talented Herbert is, he did not hold back when discussing his performance in meaningful games. Herbert has passed for at least 20 TDs each season he has been in the league and combined for only 10 interceptions the last two campaigns. His completion percentage has been 65.1% or better each season, while his QBR (61.7) was 11th in the league one year ago.

In head coach Jim Harbaugh's first season with the organization in 2024, Herbert led the Chargers to three straight wins to end the season before a wild-card loss to the Houston Texans capped their 11-win season. His four interceptions in that game were another sign of some of the struggles he has had in bigger games, but he had only accounted for three total interceptions all season until then.

The Chargers have set Justin Herbert up to succeed

What should help him is the talent surrounding him on the perimeter. With his top two wideouts Ladd McConkey (1,149 yards, seven TDs) and Quentin Johnston (711 yards, eight TDs) back and the return of former Charger Keenan Allen after a one-year stint with the Chicago Bears, Herbert has plenty of options around him.

Omarion Hampton is new to the backfield after becoming the fourth first-round running back selected by the Chargers this century, joining Melvin Gordon III (2015), Ryan Mathews (2010) and LaDainian Tomlinson (2001), per Stats Perform.

As the division-rival Chiefs await, Herbert realizes the challenge they present once again. "We have to be at our best," the Chargers signal-caller stated.

There is no doubt that Herbert has proved he can lead the Chargers to the postseason. Whether he can take the next step with the talent around him and rise to the occasion when the pressure increases is another question. That will be put to the test immediately on Friday night.