The Chargers’ defense could be the deciding factor against the Patriots. If Jesse Minter’s unit can contain New England’s RB duo, eliminate deep passes and get off the field on third down, they’ll give Justin Herbert the edge he needs in the playoffs.
With the Los Angeles Chargers hoping to win their first playoff game in years, much of the focus has naturally been on the offense. Quarterback Justin Herbert is under immense pressure to shake off his previous playoff struggles and lead his team to victory. While Herbert’s performance will be critical to the Chargers’ success, the biggest X-factor on Sunday may very well be the defense.
Over the last several weeks, Jesse Minter’s defensive unit has been firing on all cylinders. Outside of the opening two drives against the Houston Texans — which resulted in two deep touchdown passes — the Chargers defense has been a menace to opposing offenses. Following those scores by C.J. Stroud, Minter made timely adjustments, holding the Texans to just six points for the remainder of the game. That ability to adapt mid-game will be crucial against a New England Patriots team led by rookie quarterback Drake Maye.
So what are the key areas Minter and the Chargers defense must focus on to slow down Maye and the Patriots?
Don’t let the running back duo beat you. New England boasts one of the more underrated backfields in the league with Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson. Both backs are dangerous between the tackles and are equally effective as receivers out of the backfield. The Patriots lack a true WR1, instead relying on a collection of receivers to move the chains. If the Chargers can limit Stevenson and Henderson, it puts far more pressure on Maye to consistently beat them downfield.
Allowing early success on the ground would open up the play-action game — an area where Maye has already shown flashes. That scenario could lead to the same kind of explosive plays the Chargers surrendered early against Houston. Winning first down and keeping the Patriots behind the sticks must be a priority.
Eliminate the deep passes. While Maye is still developing, he possesses a strong arm and is not afraid to take shots downfield. The Patriots will look to capitalize on aggressive defensive fronts by using max protection and attacking vertically. The Chargers must stay disciplined in coverage, particularly their safeties, to avoid giving up momentum-changing explosive plays. Forcing the Patriots to methodically drive the field increases the chances of mistakes from a young quarterback.
Get off the field on third and long. This may be the most important key of all. New England has relied heavily on short passes, screens and checkdowns to stay ahead of the chains. When faced with third-and-long situations, the Chargers must capitalize. Generating pressure without sacrificing coverage will be essential, as Maye is capable of extending plays with his legs. Forcing punts instead of allowing late conversions could swing both field position and momentum in the Chargers’ favor.
If the Chargers defense can stay disciplined, eliminate explosive plays and force Maye into uncomfortable situations, they will put Herbert and the offense in position to control the game. In the playoffs, defense often determines who advances — and on Sunday, the Chargers’ defense has a golden opportunity to prove it belongs on the biggest stage.