Around the AFC West: Regular season wraps for Chiefs and rivals
By Ellen Mathis
Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers entered Sunday’s game hoping to beat the second string of the Kansas City Chiefs and finish the season with a four-game win streak. Their opponent was resting nearly everyone as they already secured the first round bye and had their sights set on loftier goals. The Chargers hoped to build confidence of their rookie sensation, quarterback Justin Herbert.
The game started out close, but it became clear that the Chargers were the better team on the field (playing all their starters) while the Chiefs were clearly without the majority of their stars. Ultimately, the Chargers won, 38-21 and Herbert continued to break records.
Justin Herbert now has the rookie records for:
— Daniel Popper (@danielrpopper) January 4, 2021
Total TDs (36)
Passing TDs (31)
Completions (396)
300-yard passing games (8)
Multi-TD passing games (10)
Three-TD passing games (6)
He winds up 39 yards short of the passing yards record. #Chargers
What a great season for the rookie, especially as the Chargers head into a rocky offseason. It was announced on Monday that the Chargers and Anthony Lynn parted ways.
Chargers fire HC Anthony Lynn. pic.twitter.com/trmwEXMNgz
— NFL (@NFL) January 4, 2021
This was yet another head coach opening and offers an extremely attractive option to candidates. The quarterback is in place surrounded by a lot of talent on both sides of the ball. Because of that, we have already seen our beloved Eric Bieniemy interview for the position.
Chiefs' OC Eric Bieniemy interviewed today for the Jaguars' HC job, as well as the Jets' HC position, per source. Bieniemy interviewed for the Chargers' HC job Tuesday, and Atlanta and Detroit on Monday. He now has interviewed for all teams with HC openings -- except the Texans.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 6, 2021
If he goes there, I will be sad. However, if he wants the keys to a franchise with a lot of the pieces, that might be a good fit. The only downside is he has to deal with Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid twice a year. Maybe he should go somewhere else.
The Chargers hold the 13th overall pick and likely need to add a stud on the offensive line. It is not a flashy pick, but would offer greater protection to Justin Herbert to keep him upright for years to come.