Chargers Face Jaguars in Crucial Week 11 Clash Amid Offensive Line Concerns

The Los Angeles Chargers and Jacksonville Jaguars will square off in a pivotal Week 11 matchup in Florida, with both teams looking to strengthen their playoff positioning. The Chargers enter the game at 7-3, while the Jaguars sit at 5-4, making this an early-season must-win for Jacksonville to stay competitive in the AFC.

A victory for Los Angeles would further solidify their spot near the top of the conference, while a loss could tighten the AFC playoff race and give rivals like the Kansas City Chiefs, Baltimore Ravens, and Houston Texans an edge. The Jaguars, meanwhile, face a critical juncture, as a defeat would drop them to 5-5 and place their postseason hopes in jeopardy.

All eyes will be on Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert, who has performed at an elite level despite a struggling offensive line that has allowed significant pressure throughout the season. Entering Week 11, Herbert ranks second in passing yards (2,610) and fourth in touchdown passes (20), underscoring his ability to succeed even under duress.

The matchup also presents an opportunity for the Chargers to test adjustments along the offensive line, including new personnel and potential positional changes, as they aim to protect Herbert and maintain offensive efficiency against a tough Jaguars defense.

1. Herbert’s Performance Amid Offensive Line Struggles

Justin Herbert’s talent has kept the Chargers competitive despite consistent offensive line struggles, which have drawn national attention all season. PFF has repeatedly highlighted the unit’s difficulties, grading them among the worst in the league. The pressure on Herbert has been relentless, particularly evident in the first quarter of Sunday Night Football against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Despite these challenges, Herbert has thrived statistically, demonstrating poise in the pocket and a strong ability to make quick reads. His production has kept Los Angeles’ offense among the league leaders, illustrating his value even when facing constant defensive pressure. Offensive line concerns have influenced game planning, forcing Herbert to rely on quick throws, mobility, and an acute awareness of pass rushers. Maintaining his health and effectiveness will be a priority heading into Week 11. Coaches continue to evaluate line combinations in hopes of reducing pressure and giving Herbert a more consistent pocket, especially with the stakes high against a hungry Jaguars team.

2. Potential Lineup Adjustments

The Chargers could see significant changes along the offensive line for Sunday’s game. Wide receiver Quentin Johnston and right tackle Bobby Hart are listed as questionable, which may impact lineup decisions and protection schemes. Trey Pipkins is expected to retain his starting role at right tackle if Hart is unavailable. At left tackle, Los Angeles is giving reps to newly acquired Trevor Penning with the starting group. Penning, a former first-round pick with the New Orleans Saints, has yet to reach his potential but could provide stability in a critical position protecting Herbert. The Chargers are searching for reliable replacements for Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt, whose absences have magnified the importance of every offensive lineman on the field. Penning’s integration could mark a turning point in shoring up a unit that has struggled all season. These adjustments will be closely watched, as the offensive line’s performance may determine whether Herbert can operate effectively and maintain the Chargers’ winning trajectory.

3. Implications for the AFC Playoff Race

A win for Los Angeles would enhance their status as an AFC contender, giving Herbert and the offense a boost heading into the midseason stretch. Maintaining momentum is key to securing home-field advantage and positioning for the postseason. For the Jaguars, a loss could be devastating, dropping their record to 5-5 and making upcoming games against top-tier AFC teams even more challenging. Jacksonville must find ways to disrupt Herbert while sustaining its own offensive efficiency to remain viable in the playoff hunt. Both teams will approach the game with heightened urgency, aware of the playoff implications and the need to execute at a high level. This matchup serves as a litmus test for the Chargers’ offensive line adjustments and the Jaguars’ defensive capabilities. How each team responds to pressure, injuries, and strategic adjustments will likely shape not only the outcome of Sunday’s game but also their trajectory in the AFC playoff picture.