The Union-Tribune’s Nick Canepa grades the Chargers following Sunday’s 26-3 win over the Panthers:
Quarterbacks: B
Justin Herbert led a splendid initial drive culminating in a 29-yard touchdown to Quentin Johnston, then had a bad pick/awful decision on the second series. He then found Johnston again, wide open in the end zone. His third-quarter fumble stopped a drive. But this is how it’s going to be. He ed for 130 yards. When they can run it, they’re going to run it. New coach’s way. And Herbert’s 2-0.
Running backs: A+
When healthy — which isn’t often — J.K. Dobbins is one of the NFL’s better backs. He’s healthy. He had another big day, running 17 times for 131 yards, including a wonderful 43-yard run for a score before the break. He and Gus Edwards make a strong pair.
Receivers: C
Johnston, the much belittled 2023 No. 1, made a terrific catch on the first TD, and his second didn’t take much effort at all, with nobody covering him. He is a talent who needs his rough edges filed down. Tight end Will Dissly had a good time over the middle. Joshua Palmer finally surfaced. But this is a young, inexperienced group that has a long way to go to earn Herbert’s complete trust.
Offensive line: A-
This has a chance to be an outstanding O-line. Good blocking for the run and , which is what the new coach wants.
Defensive line: B+
This is a defense that tackles well. Carolina had third-down chances and couldn’t convert. The middle is stouter than it has been since it was playing in Mission Valley. Scott Matlock, who doubles as an enormous fullback, had a batdown.
Linebackers: B
Denzel Perryman had a big early sack following Herbert’s pick, forcing a punt. Bookends Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack were active, but not much pressure was applied. Bosa did have a sack.
Secondary: B+
Safety Alohi Gilman, not a bad student, was inactive. Veteran San Diegan Tony Jefferson was brought up from the practice squad to fill in. Kristian Fulton had a nice, third-down breakup. The secondary is tackling very well. Elijah Molden had a pick before the half and got hurt in the fourth quarter. Derwin James, as usual, was in many places, but wisely avoided Fayetteville. He also missed an easy tackle for loss.
Special teams: A-
Cameron Dicker The Kicker missed the first PAT of his career and missed the landing area on a kickoff, which eventually led to a field goal. Had a 46-yard FG and then a 42-yarder. When JK Scott had to punt, he did fine.
Coaching; A-
Jim Harbaugh should know that running out of the shotgun on short yardage makes no sense, but he still shouldn’t have punted fourth-and-1 from midfield. He has built a Harbaugh team. Quickly.
Next opportunity — at Pittsburgh: B
The visitors haven’t always played well in Steeltown, but they’ve won their last two there. Which of course means nothing.
