The Chargers begin their new era against the opponent that ended the last one.
After an embarrassing 42-point loss to the Oakland Raiders last December that led to the firing of Brandon Staley, new head coach Jim Harbaugh will face an AFC West rival on Saturday at SoFi Stadium. Aside from Harbaugh’s ever-present khaki pants, almost nothing is guaranteed about the new Chargers.
Quarterback Justin Herbert is working with new running backs and receivers behind an offensive line that starts with rookie tackle Joe Alt. The former No. 5 pick will be welcomed to the NFL by Raiders star cornerback Max Crosby. The defense is being rebuilt under former Michigan defensive coordinator Jesse Minter.
The Chargers gave up 63 points in last year’s loss, allowing Raiders head coach Antonio Pierce to secure a permanent spot and not to mention safety Derwin James Jr. made the rounds in this season-opening race as he took over the lead on the board.
“It’s Raiders week,” James said. “It means a lot more.”
