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Everything to know from Chargers’ win over Panthers

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The Chargers improved to 2-0 after defeating the Panthers, 26-3.

Here’s our recap of the Bolts’ victory in Week 2.

It was over when…

The Chargers scored a touchdown on their opening drive. They held the lead from that point on.

Highlight of the game

Quentin Johnston’s first of two touchdowns. Johnston did an excellent job working back to the football with Jaycee Horn in coverage.

Notable number

The Chargers start the season 2-0 for the first time since 2012.

3 stars of the game

  1. RB J.K. Dobbins: Dobbins rushed for over 100 yards and posted a touchdown for the second consecutive week.
  2. WR Quentin Johnston: The Chargers didn’t prioritize the pass, but Johnston still took advantage of his opportunities. He had five catches for 51 yards and a pair of scores on six targets.
  3. CB Elijah Molden: Molden started at safety while Alohi Gilman was sidelined with an injury. He picked off Bryce Young in the second quarter and had seven tackles.

Quick hits

  • Bully ball is alive and well in Los Angeles. The Chargers finished the game with 219 yards rushing, which was engineered by Dobbins, who was the most efficient runner again. Gus Edwards had one more carry than Dobbins (18), but he only managed 3.3 yards per carry.
  • Justin Herbert finished the game 14 of 20 passing for 130 yards, two touchdowns and an interception. Herbert’s 130 yards passing were his fewest ever in a victory. He did use his legs, running for a 13-yard pickup. It’s clear that the Jim Harbaugh/Greg Roman offense has had an impact on Herbert’s passing output.
  • Even though the passing offense was nearly nonexistent, Johnston still had himself a great game. He had a 29-yard touchdown and found himself wide open in the end zone for his second score of the day.
  • Los Angeles was 9-of-14 on third down and had 21 first downs.
  • The Chargers continued to dominate defensively. The Panthers only totaled 159 yards of offense (84 yards passing), converted just once out of 12 attempts on third down. Los Angeles had two sacks and a takeaway.

What’s next?

The Chargers are on the road again to take on the Steelers (1-0) next Sunday, Sept. 22, at 10:00 a.m. PT.