October 11th 2024.
If you're someone who loves watching high-scoring, action-packed games, the upcoming matchup between the Broncos and the Chargers may not be exactly what you're looking for. The Chargers, under the leadership of first-year head coach Jim Harbaugh and offensive coordinator Greg Roman, have developed a physical, run-focused offense. This means that the Broncos' defense will have to adjust their strategy to defend against this style of play.
Defensive coordinator Vance Joseph explained that the Chargers' offense is all about running the ball, with occasional quick pass plays mixed in. It's a throwback to old-school football, and this season, it has proven to be quite effective. According to Next Gen Stats, the Chargers rank ninth in rushing yards per game and second in run rate. This is similar to Roman's time as offensive coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens, where he utilized a two-running back system featuring JK Dobbins and Gus Edwards, both formerly of the Ravens.
Dobbins, who has faced injuries throughout his career, has been a key player for the Chargers this season with 56 carries for 342 yards and two touchdowns. He had a strong start to the season, rushing for 266 yards in the first two weeks, but has since slowed down. In their losses to the Pittsburgh Steelers and Kansas City Chiefs, Dobbins only managed 76 yards on 29 carries. Edwards, on the other hand, has carried the ball 38 times for 113 yards with an average of three yards per carry.
As the Chargers have relied heavily on their run game, Joseph noted that opposing defenses are often forced to stack the box with eight or more defenders near the line of scrimmage. This is a different approach from last season under former head coach Brandon Staley, where the Chargers had a run rate of 39% and averaged 94 yards per game. Fortunately for the Broncos, their defense has been strong in stopping the run as of late, ranking 10th in rushing yards allowed per game and eighth in yards per play. In fact, they have only allowed three rushing touchdowns so far this season.
Broncos inside linebacker Justin Strnad acknowledged the Chargers' tendency to use heavy personnel and their focus on shortening the game. He emphasized the importance of the defense stepping up to stop the run and hopefully create scoring opportunities for their own team.
While the Chargers' offensive strategy may limit opportunities for their star quarterback Justin Herbert, who currently ranks 31st in passing yards and has the third-fewest attempts, Joseph knows that he is still a top player in the league and can be dangerous if given the chance.
Joseph also pointed out that the Chargers' run-heavy approach means that Herbert won't have to deal with complex defensive schemes, such as shell coverages or simulated pressures, on first and second down. This makes his job easier and allows him to focus on making the most of their run game.
However, the Broncos will also have to be efficient in their own run game if they want to continue their winning streak. The Chargers boast the fifth-best defense in the league, making it difficult to generate explosive plays on the ground or through the air. Offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi acknowledged the physicality and toughness of the Chargers' team, but also noted that this is the kind of challenge that teams expect in the NFL.
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