Harbaugh Just Put The Chargers Offense Under A Harsh Spotlight

Chargers' head coach Jim Harbaugh openly critiques Mike McDaniel's offense as the team remains winless and his own job hangs in the balance.

Jim Harbaugh didn’t hide from the reality after the Los Angeles Chargers were beaten 22-6 by the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday afternoon: the offense is simply not doing enough.

The Chargers are six games into the season and still looking for their first win, sitting at the bottom of the standings with the league’s worst record. That ugly start has put the spotlight squarely on an offense that has struggled to find any rhythm, and Harbaugh made clear after the loss that the issues have to be confronted head-on.

“We have to address everything guys and especially offensively. We’re not scoring enough points,” Harbaugh said.

“We’re going to look at everything. The job I'm doing, it starts with me.

The plan is we’ll watch this and get with our offensive coaches. … [Offense] Needs to be addressed.”

Kansas City took control early and never let go, building a 19-3 halftime lead while Los Angeles kept handing the Chiefs chances to widen the gap. The Chargers were outclassed from the start, and the offensive problems only made the margin feel larger.

Justin Herbert did what he could with an offense dealing with injuries. He finished 22 of 37 for 204 yards and an interception, and added 26 rushing yards on five carries. Quentin Johnston provided the biggest passing play of the day with a 57-yard catch, and KeAndre Lambert-Smith led the team with five receptions for 32 yards.

Harbaugh’s comments also pointed toward the larger conversation coming inside the building, including possible talks about Mike McDaniel. For a team with no wins and no cushion, the next steps are no longer optional.

The Chargers have a bye next week before returning to action on the road against the Rams in Week 8. Kickoff is set for Nov. 1 at 4:05 p.m. ET.

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