Would Chargers’ Joey Bosa be first to go? Rams roles changing by week

Joey Bosa appears downhearted as he watches the Chargers-Packers game from the sidelines on crutches. The star player sustained a right foot injury in the first quarter and was subsequently carted off the field. (Jeffrey Phelps / Associated Press)

Read more: Los Angeles Times

The Chargers’ playoff hopes took a hit as they suffered a 23-20 road defeat against the Green Bay Packers. On the other hand, the Rams managed to bounce back with a 17-16 victory over the Seattle Seahawks, completing a season sweep. Rams beat writer Gary Klein, Chargers beat writer Jeff Miller, and columnist Helene Elliott discuss their thoughts on the outcome of these games and what lies ahead:

According to Miller, “There were too many costly plays by the Chargers on Sunday to attribute their loss to just one penalty.”

Could Joey Bosa’s injury woes be a factor in the Chargers’ decision to draft Tuli Tuipulotu? The team has an option to part ways with Bosa after this season, posing a question about his future with the team given his injury record.

“The Chargers are facing significant financial decisions,” stated Miller. “Bosa’s future is uncertain, and the team also faces the possibility of letting go of their general manager and head coach.”

When it comes to their defensive strategy, Miller observed that the Chargers utilized safety Dean Marlowe more extensively, but they still gave up 322 passing yards to the Packers, pointing out the need for more diverse defensive approaches.

“Puka Nacua may seem more effective when Cooper Kupp is not on the field, but the Rams need both players,” shared Klein.

Regarding the Rams’ running back Royce Freeman’s performance, Elliott noted that “it’s probably a result of him seizing the opportunity and solid work by the offensive line.”

When the focus moved to the Rams’ defense, Klein mentioned their confidence in Ernest Jones, adding that he, along with Aaron Donald and Jordan Fuller, serves as a pivotal presence on the team’s defensive line.

Moving forward, the Chargers are set to face the 7-3 Ravens, a team with a strong offense led by Lamar Jackson, presenting a significant challenge for the Chargers’ struggling defense.

In contrast, the Rams will have to contend with the fleet-footed Kyle Murray of the Cardinals, which will test their defense differently, as Elliott and Klein suggested a scrambler like Murray poses a unique threat.

For the Los Angeles Times SoCal high school sports newsletter and more, visit Los Angeles Times.