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How Justin Herbert, Chargers offense fell flat in shocking loss to Cardinals

The Arizona Cardinals dealt the Los Angeles Chargers a disappointing 26-14 defeat in the opening week of the 2026 NFL campaign. Entering the matchup with AFC championship ambitions, Los Angeles fell flat across all phases of the contest despite the return of healthy offensive tackles and high expectations surrounding head coach Jim Harbaugh's squad.

The setback marked a frustrating debut for new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel, whom Los Angeles added following his head coaching stint with the Miami Dolphins. Despite fielding an attack anchored by quarterback Justin Herbert alongside Ladd McConkey and Omarion Hampton, the unit stalled out and sparked widespread criticism toward both Herbert and Harbaugh.