The Chargers’ 27-7 preseason victory over the Texans ignited the usual August hyperbole, turning an exhibition opener into a certified hype machine.
A handful of standout performances have fans wildly extrapolating the team’s regular-season potential. From instant quarterback controversies to the defensive side of the ball, the fanbase is already running wild with a few major overreactions.
Here are four of them:
DJ Uiagalelei should be QB2
Trey Lance started the game but struggled, throwing some questionable passes, including a red-zone interception to Texans rookie Kamari Ramsey. DJ Uiagalelei stepped in and looked like the sharper quarterback, throwing for 120 yards and a three-yard touchdown pass to Devonte Ross, leading many to claim Uiagalelei as QB2. The reality is that while Uiagalelei has had a strong summer and a solid preseason performance, he hasn’t done anything notable enough to surpass Lance just yet.
Amar Johnson deserves a 53-man roster spot
Johnson, the second-year running back, racked up 85 scrimmage yards, two rushing touchdowns, and a successful two-point conversion. He also broke free for a 55-yard reception. If the Chargers only roll with three backs, Johnson will have a tough time earning a spot on the 53-man roster with Omarion Hampton, Keaton Mitchell, and Kimani Vidal in front of him. He is undoubtedly in the mix for a practice squad spot alongside Jaret Patterson and rookie Greg Desrosiers.
The defense is going to be elite
Chris O’Leary’s defense completely bullied the Texans, limiting them to just 105 passing yards and 209 total yards, while allowing zero points over the final three quarters of the game. There were some intriguing things O’Leary schemed up, including a more blitz-heavy approach, something we did not often see from Jesse Minter. For a first-time NFL defensive coordinator, it’s very encouraging. But we will have to see it translate over into regular-season action with the starting personnel before drawing any conclusions.
Jake Slaughter is going to be an elite guard
Slaughter, the team’s second-round pick, put together a strong debut, playing center for the starting unit before switching to left guard. Across ten offensive series, the former Florida product looked smooth in pass protection, effortlessly identifying and passing off defensive stunts. However, executing against standard preseason defensive line is very different from facing regular-season interior rushers. He will still need to continue to compete over the next couple of weeks to earn a permanent starting position, and then show he can be consistent against that level of competition.
This article originally appeared on Chargers Wire: 4 overreactions from the Chargers’ preseason win over the Texans
Reporting by Gavino Borquez, Chargers Wire / Chargers Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Gavino Borquez, Chargers Wire | USA TODAY Network
