Chargers Keys to Success Versus the Texans

The Los Angeles Chargers are running out of time to turn their season around. At 0-7, the Chargers are still searching for their first win of the season and will have another opportunity this Sunday when they host the Houston Texans at SoFi Stadium. Houston has struggled at times this season as well, entering the matchup at 2-5, giving the Chargers an opportunity to finally get into the win column. However, that is going to require a much better performance from all three phases of the team. There are three keys to success that the Chargers need to focus on if they want to come away with a victory.

1. No Turnovers

The first key is simple: take care of the football. Turnovers have been a major problem for the Chargers this season, particularly when it comes to Justin Herbert. Herbert has thrown 10 interceptions through seven games and has struggled to consistently protect the football. Last Sunday’s loss to the Rams was another example, with Herbert throwing two interceptions and fumbling the football (that he would recover). Those mistakes make it extremely difficult for an offense that has already struggled to put points on the board. Houston has done a good job taking care of the football, so the Chargers cannot afford to give the Texans extra opportunities. If Herbert and the offense can avoid costly mistakes, they will give themselves a much better chance to compete.

2. Be Aggressive

One of the biggest frustrations with the Chargers lately has been the lack of aggressiveness on offense. There have been too many situations where the play calling seems content with settling for field goals rather than doing what it takes to get into the end zone. Whether it is a third-down situation or a fourth-down opportunity, the Chargers need to start showing more confidence in their ability to move the football. Field goals are not going to be enough to win games, especially when the offense has struggled to score touchdowns. Mike McDaniel and the offensive coaching staff need to find ways to put pressure on opposing defenses and give Herbert opportunities to make plays. Playing conservatively has not worked, and it is time to take some chances. The Chargers need touchdowns, not just field goals.

3. Get Omarion Hampton Going

The third key is getting Omarion Hampton more involved in the offense. Hampton needs to become a bigger part of the Chargers’ game plan, and the team has to find ways to get him going early. The second-year running back has shown flashes of what he can bring, but he needs more opportunities to establish a rhythm. Getting the running game going would take some pressure off Herbert while making the offense less predictable. Hampton has the ability to make plays between the tackles and contribute in the passing game. The Chargers need to lean on him more and give him the opportunity to become the difference-maker they drafted him to be.

The Chargers have a difficult challenge ahead, but this is a game they should be looking to win. Houston is far from unbeatable, and the Chargers have enough talent to compete. However, that talent needs to translate into better decisions, more aggressive play calling and a more balanced offense. If they can accomplish these three things, perhaps Sunday will finally be the week the Chargers turn their season around.