Joe Alt, a key player for the Los Angeles Chargers, has been a significant part of their offensive line, playing a crucial role in protecting quarterback Justin Herbert. However, Alt's injury early in the 2023 season had a profound impact on Herbert's performance and the team's overall success, particularly in the playoffs.
Herbert's playoff record has been a subject of intense scrutiny. Despite his exceptional regular-season performances, Herbert has struggled in the postseason, going 0-3 in his playoff appearances. This trend highlights the need for a more robust offensive line to support him during high-stakes games. Alt's presence, along with Pro Bowl tackle Rashawn Slater, has been instrumental in providing the necessary protection for Herbert. Unfortunately, both players were sidelined early in the season, leaving Herbert vulnerable against relentless defensive pressure.
The Chargers' offensive line has faced significant challenges this season, ranking tied for the second-most sacks allowed per game (3.5) . With Alt and Slater out, the Chargers have struggled to maintain consistency, lining up behind the most offensive line combinations in the NFL this season (25). The lack of stability has directly impacted Herbert's ability to perform at his best, especially in critical playoff games.
Justin Herbert's playoff stats reflect these difficulties. In playoff games, the Chargers quarterback has averaged 20.0 points per game, ranking 9th among playoff quarterbacks. Additionally, his rushing yards per game average 121.6, placing him 12th in this category. These statistics underscore the challenges Herbert faces when the offensive line is not at full strength.
Herbert's toughness and resilience have been evident throughout the season, as seen in his Week 13 game against the Raiders, where he scrambled to pick up a single yard despite being tackled by safety Jeremy Chinn. However, without a stable offensive line, including key players like Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater, Herbert's efforts have not translated into playoff victories .
As the Chargers look to the future, addressing the offensive line's stability and ensuring that players like Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater are healthy and available will be crucial. The team's success in the playoffs hinges on providing Herbert with the protection he needs to perform at his best. The return of Joe Alt to the lineup could significantly bolster the Chargers' chances of overcoming their playoff challenges and achieving greater success.
