Tomorrow night, the Los Angeles Chargers, who are already shorthanded, will be without their most potent offensive weapon.
Superstar wide receiver Keenan Allen is out of Thursday’s road game against the Las Vegas Raiders due to a heel ailment, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. In addition, LA will be without quarterback Justin Herbert, who hurt his finger in a game against the Denver Broncos on Sunday, ending his season.
Chargers ruled out WR Kennan Allen for Thursday night’s game in Las Vegas against the Raiders.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 13, 2023
In place of Herbert, Easton Stick, a backup, will start against the Chargers’ seasoned AFC West opponents. Stick will undoubtedly have his hands full given that the Chargers are without their two best wide receivers.
Mike Williams, Los Angeles’ top receiver, suffered an ACL tear in Week 3 that ended his career. With Williams out, it was hoped that 2023 first-round pick Quentin Johnston would be able to step in and cover the gap. However, this season, the TCU graduate has only caught 29 passes for 333 yards and one touchdown.
Johnston has a chance to establish himself as the Bolts’ next wide receiver while Allen and Williams are both sidelined.
Additionally, Austin Ekeler, the team’s standout rushing back who has had a tough season marred by injuries, will have to carry more of a load.
The Chargers come into tomorrow night with a 5-8 record, having already eclipsed their 10-win season from the previous year. 9-8 most likely won’t be enough to smuggle themselves into the postseason in a loaded AFC, even if they manage to survive without their three greatest offensive players.
