Chargers Knock Out Raiders on Monday Night Football
The Los Angeles Chargers flexed both offensive firepower and defensive toughness in a 20-9 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders on Monday Night Football. The win pushed the Chargers to 2-0 and atop the AFC West after Week 2.
By Earl Heath | Contributing Sports Writer
The Los Angeles Chargers flexed both offensive firepower and defensive toughness in a 20-9 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders on Monday Night Football. The win pushed the Chargers to 2-0 and atop the AFC West after Week 2.
Herbert, Johnston Shine Again
Quarterback Justin Herbert picked up right where he left off from Week 1, connecting early and often with second-year wideout Quentin Johnston. After scoring twice in the opener against Kansas City, Johnston continued his hot streak with five catches for 79 yards and a 60-yard touchdown bomb late in the first half that stretched the Chargers’ lead to 17-6.
Johnston’s three touchdowns through two games are tied for the NFL lead alongside Amon-Ra St. Brown, Rome Odunze, and Emeka Egbuka.
Veteran receiver Keenan Allen added a highlight of his own, making a toe-tapping grab in the back corner of the end zone for Herbert’s first touchdown pass of the night. Herbert finished 19-of-27 for 242 yards and two scores.
Defense Steals the Show
While the offense grabbed headlines, the defense sealed the win. Linebacker Daiyan Henley set the tone early with an interception on the game’s first play, and the Chargers’ secondary was relentless from there.
Los Angeles finished with 15 pass deflections and three interceptions, smothering Raiders quarterback Geno Smith, who never found a rhythm. Smith went 24-of-43 for 180 yards with three picks, posting a passer rating of just 37.
The Las Vegas crowd grew restless, booing loudly when the Raiders settled for a field goal at the end of a 19-play drive in the fourth quarter to cut the deficit to 20-9.
Fast Start Under Harbaugh
The Chargers are 2-0 for the second straight season under head coach Jim Harbaugh. The victory keeps them tied at the top of the AFC West while the Raiders drop to 1-1.
What’s Next
The Chargers return home to host the Denver Broncos (1-1) in Week 3. The Raiders head east for a matchup with the Washington Commanders.
