How the Chargers can stop the mistakes and start winning

CARSON, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 22: Quarterback Philip Rivers #17 of the Los Angeles Chargers is tackled by defensive end J.J. Watt #99 of the Houston Texans at Dignity Health Sports Park on September 22, 2019 in Carson, California. (Photo by Meg Oliphant/Getty Images)
CARSON, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 22: Quarterback Philip Rivers #17 of the Los Angeles Chargers is tackled by defensive end J.J. Watt #99 of the Houston Texans at Dignity Health Sports Park on September 22, 2019 in Carson, California. (Photo by Meg Oliphant/Getty Images) /
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DETROIT, MI – SEPTEMBER 15: Darius Slay #23 of the Detroit Lions intercepts the pass from Philip Rivers #17 (not in photo) during the fourth quarter of the game at Ford Field on September 15, 2019 in Detroit, Michigan. Detroit defeated Los Angeles 13-10. (Photo by Leon Halip/Getty Images)
DETROIT, MI – SEPTEMBER 15: Darius Slay #23 of the Detroit Lions intercepts the pass from Philip Rivers #17 (not in photo) during the fourth quarter of the game at Ford Field on September 15, 2019 in Detroit, Michigan. Detroit defeated Los Angeles 13-10. (Photo by Leon Halip/Getty Images) /

In the last two games, the Chargers lost games against good teams largely due to their own inability to avoid penalties and mistakes. What can they do to rectify this issue and start winning games?

For the fifth consecutive season, the Chargers have found themselves with a losing record after the first three games, and they have nobody but themselves to blame.

Yes, an incredible rash of injuries has destroyed the depth that Tom Telesco so carefully created on his team. But, in their two losses, the Chargers held the lead deep into the second half. Even more, the Chargers still stood ready in the final minutes to either win or tie with a solid drive.

This team is still strong enough to win, yet, in both weeks, the team found a way to lose. In each situation, critical penalties and mistakes cost the Chargers the win.

Whether it is fumbling at the goal line, throwing unreasonably risky passes, dropping touchdowns, or committing holding penalties on touchdown throws, something is clearly not clicking, and it’s time for change.

Just like last year, this 1-2 record is no reason to panic, but it does mean that it is time for some soul-searching and reevaluation from the Chargers players, coaches, and front office.

Like last season, an excellent record is still possible, even with a 1-2 start. These two changes are an excellent start in rectifying the Chargers issues.