Analyzing the Week 1 Upset: Cardinals vs. Chargers
The Arizona Cardinals pulled off a surprise victory against the Los Angeles Chargers, a team expected to dominate in Week 1. This win has been a major talking point for NFL enthusiasts.
Former NFL quarterback Dan Orlovsky, now an analyst, voiced his opinions on Justin Herbert during ESPN 2’s “Unsportsmanlike.” In the conversation with Evan Cohen, Chris Canty, and Michelle Smallmon, Orlovsky defended his support for Herbert.
Evan Cohen questioned Orlovsky, “Why do you prefer quarterbacks who haven’t succeeded over those who have? Why do you support Herbert? Why not Jalen Hurts?” This inquiry came after Hurts, who has a Super Bowl victory, helped his team win against the Washington Commanders. In that win, Hurts completed 14 of 25 passes for 203 yards, scored three touchdowns, and added a rushing touchdown, with the final score 24-22.
Orlovsky explained his past reservations about Hurts due to his college performance and the Eagles’ decision to choose him over Carson Wentz. However, Orlovsky now holds no doubts about Hurts, appreciating his NFL performances. He stated, “Your brain tells you that’s what it should look like” when discussing Herbert’s gameplay.
Orlovsky’s support for Herbert isn’t new. On “The Pat McAfee Show,” he voiced his preference for the Chargers over the Chiefs in the AFC West, predicting Herbert to be a top contender in the MVP race by Thanksgiving.
Despite these endorsements, Herbert’s Week 1 was lackluster. He completed 17 of 27 passes for 209 yards, scored one touchdown, and threw an interception. This contributed to the Chargers’ 26-14 loss to the Cardinals. Arizona’s Jacoby Brissett threw for 277 yards and led the offense to 393 total yards.
The question remains if Herbert can lead the Chargers deep into the playoffs. Yet to secure a postseason victory with an 0-3 record so far, Herbert has been praised consistently as a top NFL quarterback. The Chargers look to redeem themselves against the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday, September 20, at 4:05 p.m. ET.