Jim Harbaugh’s Chargers are 0-3 after a 24-16 loss to Buffalo, and the head coach made clear Monday that Justin Herbert and the entire offensive operation must improve.
Herbert completed 20 of 34 passes for 226 yards, one touchdown and one interception against the Bills. Los Angeles created five takeaways on defense but converted only one of four red-zone chances, repeatedly failing to turn opportunities into touchdowns.
Harbaugh, who has consistently backed Herbert since arriving ahead of the 2024 season, said the quarterback’s decision-making needs to take a step forward.
“He has to improve,” Harbaugh said, adding that the demand applies not only to Herbert but also to himself, the quarterback coach and offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel.
The Chargers quarterback had particular trouble attacking downfield. On throws traveling at least 20 yards in the air, Herbert went 1-for-7 for 29 yards and threw an interception. He now has three interceptions on deep attempts this season, already exceeding his totals from each of the past two years, when he threw two in 2024 and two in 2025.
Herbert has also gone four straight starts, dating to Week 17 last season, with an interception and without more than one touchdown pass. That is tied with Cooper Rush and Daniel Jones for the NFL’s longest active streak, and it is the longest such stretch of Herbert’s career.
Los Angeles never established sustained offensive rhythm while trying to keep pace with Josh Allen and the Bills. Pressure up the middle of the offensive line has been a recurring problem, while dropped passes also hurt the Chargers on Sunday.
Harbaugh said the coaching staff will evaluate every part of the offense as it searches for answers.
“We need to be better,” Harbaugh said. “We have to examine the scheme, our execution, the way we are operating and the people involved.”
