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Chargers start rookie QB Justin Herbert following pregame injury to Tyrod Taylor

The Los Angeles Chargers have a new quarterback, but it was not the new quarterback the Kansas City Chiefs expected to face.

All week the Chiefs were preparing for journeyman QB Tyrod Taylor, but instead, the Chargers trotted out rookie QB Justin Herbert. At first, many thought that Los Angeles was just trying to surprise Kansas City. Instead, Herbert was forced into the game late as Taylor somehow suffered a chest injury between pregame warmups and kickoff. Taylor is listed as questionable to return by the Chargers.

On the opening drive, Herbert went 2-of-4 for 51 yards and scored a 4-yard rushing touchdown. He caught Chiefs rookie DE Mike Danna in no man’s land covering a running back out of the flat. It was an impressive start for Herbert, but he’s since been unable to find the same success against an edgy Chiefs defense.

Steve Spagnuolo will be tasked with adjusting on the fly and making sure his guys are prepared for the type of stuff that Los Angeles throws their way. This team is used to playing from behind and in those types of uncomfortable situations, so they at least have that going for them.