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Week 1 AFC West roundup, Chargers suffer major upset

The Los Angeles Chargers stumbled right out of the gate in their 2026 campaign, dropping their opening matchup against the Arizona Cardinals 26-14 in an unexpected Week 1 shocker. Despite being heavily favored against a reconstructed Arizona sideline guided on the field by quarterback Jacoby Brissett, head coach Jim Harbaugh's squad struggled mightily.

The defeat came as an immediate surprise after pregame optimism and bold expectations surrounded the franchise heading into the contest.

The debut of the offensive collaboration between quarterback Justin Herbert and incoming offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel sputtered throughout the afternoon, with unpolished execution and costly mistakes hindering the unit. While Arizona adapted quickly under its fresh coaching group, Los Angeles failed to find an offensive groove, leaving the team to confront an unsettling start to the season.