Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh took full responsibility for his team's 23-17 loss to the Denver Broncos on Sunday, dropping to 0-5 for the first time since 2003. With the Chargers leading 17-10 and 10:33 remaining, Harbaugh opted to go for it on fourth-and-1 from his own 41, but quarterback Justin Herbert was stuffed on the play. Five plays later, Denver tied the game with a touchdown, shifting momentum. "I can't think of a time where I've been more mad at myself," Harbaugh said.
Despite ESPN Analytics agreeing with the decision (82% win probability vs. 79.8% for punting), Harbaugh admitted he should have called timeout and punted upon seeing the Broncos' defensive alignment. Herbert, who converted a quarterback sneak earlier for a first down, defended his coach, saying, "It's on me to get a yard." A second fourth-down attempt in the final quarter — this time on fourth-and-6 at their own 31 — also failed, resulting in Herbert's sixth interception of the season. Harbaugh emphasized the team's effort and talent but reiterated, "100% put this on me." The Chargers now head to Kansas City next Sunday looking to avoid an 0-6 start.
Source: ESPN NFL · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing