LA Chargers: Stifling James Robinson and 5 keys to defeating the Jaguars

3. More offensive creativity on early downs

The LA Chargers’ run game probably won’t be very good in this game. Austin Ekeler is still out in addition to the fact that Trai Turner didn’t practice at all this week. Bryan Bulaga will return in this game, but the Chargers should try easing him in a little bit considering he’s coming off of a back injury.

The Justin Jackson/Joshua Kelley backfield just hasn’t been very efficient. Perhaps they’ll take advantage of Jacksonville’s rebuilt defensive line and have their first breakout performance of the year, but I’d like to see some variety.

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Quick passes on early downs when they’re expecting the run could be a positive change. Designed quarterback runs would also be interesting. We’ve seen Justin Herbert take off and run with the rock before this season for gains of 5-10 yards. With Tyrod Taylor being cleared to play, the Chargers could let him have some designed runs or use him in a similar way to how the Saints use Taysom Hill.

Even basic end arounds and jet sweeps have worked so well for the Chargers in the past with both Keenan Allen and Mike Williams, but they just haven’t used plays like that this season.

Maybe it’s a case of keeping the offense simple in order to not overwhelm Herbert, but he’s proven that he’s ready for more complicated play calls and creativity. The coaching staff doesn’t have to overthink beating Jacksonville, but they should want to see the offense be a little more dynamic for future opponents.