D is for drops as Chargers fall at home to Ravens – San Diego Union-Tribune

On By Littum

The Union-Tribune’s Nick Canepa rates the following Chargers Monday’s 30-23 loss to the Ravens at SoFi Stadium:

Quarterback: B

Unlike most games, Justin Herbert began this one with a near-perfect, methodical drive for a TD he finished with a short run. He brilliantly led his boys into field goal range at the end of the half. But in the end, Herbert got no help on either side of the ball.

Running backs: C-

Gus Edwards is back from injury and that means he pairs nicely with JK Dobbins and they tried to establish the run early. Dobbins is more dangerous, but he injured his knee before the break and did not return. If he is out, it is not good.

Receivers: D (for drops)

Quentin Johnston had the loss of the game that would be a big game, then another one later. He stank. Ladd McConkey looks like one of the biggest steals of the draft. Jalen Reagor dropped an early first-down pass. Derius Davis made himself useful. Josh Palmer was more efficient than usual.

Offensive Line: D

Their protection fell apart late. Zion Johnson was guilty of a premature hold. Trey Pipkins was called for a massive team that wasn’t one.

Defensive line: D

It took a while for the Ravens to realize that Derrick Henry is a great running back, but they moved it big on the turf when the lights came on. Teair Tart had a tackle for loss and was more than active. Poona Ford is solid and plays that way.

Linebackers: F+

Tackle machine Denzel Perryman’s bad groin kept him in the nurse’s office, and it wasn’t a good class for him to skip. Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack might as well have been inactive. Tackling stunk everywhere.

Secondary: D-

Promising corner Cam Hart sat out with a concussion and ankle issues. His replacement, another rookie, Tarheeb Still, had his moments. Alohi Gilman broke up a pass in the end zone and was later injured on a missed tackle that turned into a TD. Kristian Fulton had bad back-to-back plays that led to a TD. Ja’Sir Taylor didn’t have his best night. Derwin James had a sack. Elijah Molden had an end-zone knockdown.

Special team: A

Cameron Dicker The Kicker made a 42-yard field goal to put his team up 10-0, and a 52-yarder at halftime to make it 14-13, then another 52-yarder to make it 17-16. JK Scott had a good punt inside the 10.

Training: D-

Harbaugh Bowl, brother vs. brother. Big brother John outcoached Jim, who gave up 200 yards for the first time in his NFL career.

Next option — at Falcons: B

The NFL team that used to be here can afford a loss, but probably not one here. The Falcons are one of the decent/bad teams. Can’t decide.