There has been a lot of focus on the Chargers offense, especially along the line. After this bye week however, movement along it could potentially give it a new look.
New acquisition Trevor Penning has been the latest attempt to protect Justin Herbert. It’s dafe to say however, that he may not be the best option. In his first start for the team against the Jaguars, he was nothing short of pitiful. That forced Harbaugh’s hand initially, but this bye week decision looks permanent. If you look at this in perspective, you could say this was a waste of a trade, as Penning’s entire Chargers career could have just consisted of the 47 snaps in that game. This trade looks to be similar to that of Branson Taylor, where both players came over in exchange for sixth round picks and ended up not being panning out.
This feels like a defining factor for the Chargers this season as it has been player after player who has stepped in and faltered. It’s not as if it was just the play of Penning that was awful. If you look at the right side of the line, Trey Pipkins III was no better against a Jaguars pass rush that is albeit very solid, yet isn’t known for being efficient. This resulted in Herbert’s wors passing performance of the season, as he only had 81 passing yards on the day.
Most importantly, this doesn’t fall on Penning completely. In many ways, Harbaugh’s hand is forced as he really has no other options, with both Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater out for the season. Jamaree Salyer could be an option, but in his time with the squad, he really hasn’t impressed. Moving players out of position also won’t help. All of this has resulted in 20 different O-line combinations.
Another huge reason Penning looked out of his depth was perhaps the Chargers gameplan. As someone who just came into the team, he simply didn’t look equipped against a Jaguars pass rush that took advantage of his greenness. Before this game, the Chargers used full backs and blocking tight ends to help compensate for their O-line’s weaknesses. Interestingly enough, the usage rate of both Scott Matlock, a fullback, and blocking tight end Tucker Fisk drastically decreased against the Jags. Ultimately, if Penning is to have any success for the Chargers, offensive coordinator Greg Roman will need to find a way to integrate him into the squad.
For now, Penning is still someone who is essentially an integral part of the Chargers offense. With no consistency, chances are Harbaugh will be forced to rotate him into the squad. Still, his immediate benching has to be a concern for fans as they want some certainty in their O-line choices. For now, Penning is just another “failed” reclamation project. It remains to be seen whether or not that can change in the coming weeks ahead. The Chargers may need it.
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