RB Austin Ekeler evaluates Chargers before entering final stretch of season
While the Chargers’ most recent game was a blowout loss to the Ravens, running back Austin Ekeler remains optimistic that the 4-2 team will continue to find success the remainder of the season.
“Every team in the NFL, every Sunday you can be beat,” Ekeler told Pop Culture’s Brian Jones.
Ekeler’s statement is evident with their most recent opponent in Baltimore, who suffered a 41-17 loss to the Bengals on Sunday despite beating Los Angeles the weekend prior.
As the Bolts prepare to face the Patriots next weekend, Ekeler reflected on quarterback Justin Herbert, who is surging in his sophomore season.
“I think that’s really important in Justin Herbert’s success, definitely, he’s got to be a special character to have the success that he’s having, but he needs a team around him as well that knows what they’re doing, that can be trusted, that can be in the right spot at the right time,” Ekeler said.
Through the first seven weeks of the season, Herbert has 161 completions, 1,771 passing yards, and 14 touchdowns.
Ekeler believes that Herbert has a sufficient supporting cast behind him, making the Bolts a threat week in and week out.
“We’ve been getting open, we’ve been protecting him, we’ve been giving opportunities to make the plays, and he’s shown that he can make the plays and be consistent, and that’s what it comes down to,” Ekeler said.
Ekeler is among the team’s many weapons. Currently, the 26-year old has 598 yards from scrimmage and seven total touchdowns.
While the Chargers have fired on all cylinders to put them in the position they are currently in, certain areas will need to be cleaned up heading into the final stretch of the season to ensure positive results.
If Los Angeles can do so, they will also benefit from having one of the most manageable schedules in the NFL.
