It was all square in Pittsburgh between the Chargers and Steelers, with both teams going toe-to-toe against each other. As they look for 3-0 at the end of their weekend, it isn’t surprising to watch them bring the best into the match-up. However, the visiting team might not feel so after finding their QB, Justin Herbert, struggling to stand up in the third quarter.

Well, this comes after a sack by LB Elandon Roberts, which might have re-aggravated the high ankle sprain that sidelined him last weekend. Even coming into the game, Herbert was questionable to play, but he did manage to make it until the third quarter. Going into the sidelines to receive medical aid, his time on the gridiron might have come to an end, at least for today.

Considering the re-injury at the same place, Herbert could even see a lengthy time off the field. His leaving the clash got Taylor Heinicke to take his position for a third down that the Chargers later decided to punt away. Early reports from the Chargers camp have stated that his return for this game is questionable. Well, his absence was heavily felt as the Steelers raced into a 3-point lead on the back of Chris Boswell’s second field goal.

With little of the fourth quarter still to play, it doesn’t seem like the visiting team can mount a comeback while their star QB watches from the sidelines. And it’s not the only injury that the Chargers suffered on the day, as pass-rusher Joey Bosa was the first one to leave the field in the first play itself. However, Herbert’s absence might hurt the Chargers more, considering the role he had coming into the match.

Justin Herbert’s importance to the Chargers this season

Before the Steelers clash came along, there was visible optimism surrounding the Chargers camp. As Justin Herbert was seen actively warming up, hoping to provide a massive boost to the visiting team. His presence on the field means the Chargers can rely upon a strong leader who can dictate the play from the center.

Although the Chargers managed to beat the Raiders and Panthers coming into the clash, the challenge in Pittsburgh is way different from others. However, both teams rendered poor passing offenses, but managed to beat their respective opponents convincingly, to say the least. Among the two, it’s the Bolts who rely heavily on their running game while the defense keeps their drives going.

RB J.K. Dobbins has been a revelation for them, considering the two touchdowns and 266 passing yards he racked up coming into this match-up. But seeing the score in Pittsburgh, it seems like the Chargers’ plan hit a roadblock in the form of the Steelers’ defense. Will they be able to get over this loss as their unbeaten start to the season comes to an end?

As we wait for a Chargers comeback next week, do check out our latest Think Tank exclusive interview with Doug Sanders. It’s packed with insights on college football, the current NFL season, and much more.