The Los Angeles Chargers’ hopes for a successful playoff run were dashed on March 10, 2025, as they suffered a disappointing 16-3 defeat to the New England Patriots. Quarterback Justin Herbert shouldered the blame for the loss, citing an uncharacteristically poor performance in a game that showcased his team’s struggles when it mattered most.
Herbert, who had been a standout throughout the season, completed 19 of 31 passes for 159 yards without a touchdown. He also led the team in rushing with 55 yards. Despite his impressive regular season, where he navigated behind one of the league’s weakest offensive lines to secure eleven wins, Herbert’s playoff showing fell short of expectations. “I didn’t play well enough and didn’t make any plays,” he stated after the game. “And when it mattered most, we didn’t score any points.”
Throughout the match, Herbert faced challenges in his decision-making. On the Chargers’ opening drive, he opted to scramble for a nine-yard gain instead of targeting a wide-open Ladd McConkey for what could have been a significant play. In the third quarter, he underthrew McConkey on a third-and-seven opportunity, allowing Patriots cornerback Marcus Jones to break up the pass. Reflecting on his performance, Herbert acknowledged, “Obviously, not well enough.”
Despite being well-protected for most of the game, Herbert appeared to struggle with his confidence. On one of the six sacks he endured, he drifted around the pocket before slipping on the grass, leading to a sack credited to Patriots outside linebacker K’Lavon Chaisson. After the game, Herbert remarked, “Quarterback play wasn’t good enough.”
This loss marks Herbert’s third consecutive defeat in the postseason, raising questions about his performance in crucial moments. He has yet to secure a playoff victory, which is particularly disappointing given his status as a two-time Pro Bowl selection and one of the league’s most promising quarterbacks. When asked about his future playoff prospects, Herbert responded, “Yeah, I don’t know. I haven’t figured it out yet, and it hasn’t happened.”
While the Chargers’ offense struggled, the defense played valiantly, managing to keep the game competitive. The defensive line applied consistent pressure on Patriots quarterback Drake Maye, recording five sacks and forcing two turnovers. Outside linebacker Odafe Oweh, who joined the team in October, made a significant impact with three sacks, setting a franchise record for sacks in a single postseason game.
The Patriots did not reach the end zone until late in the fourth quarter, when Maye connected with tight end Hunter Henry for a 28-yard touchdown. Herbert acknowledged the defense’s efforts, stating, “We let the defense down today.”
The Chargers now find themselves 0-2 in the postseason under head coach Jim Harbaugh, with their offense scoring only two touchdowns across both playoff games. Following the defeat, Harbaugh faced questions about the future of offensive coordinator Greg Roman and whether he is the right fit for the team. He indicated that they would evaluate all aspects of the offense but did not provide a definitive answer.
Despite the loss, Herbert received support from his teammates. Right guard Mekhi Becton defended him, saying, “I don’t think he did anything wrong. When we’ve got No. 10 back there, we can do anything.” As the Chargers look to regroup and address their postseason shortcomings, the focus will be on building a more effective offense for the future.
