Brandon Staley fired after Chargers’ embarrassing loss at Raiders

After getting obliterated by the Las Vegas Raiders on the road 63-21, the Los Angeles Chargers (5-9) took the liberty of relieving Brandon Staley of his duties. Staley, who was in the process of completing his third season as the Chargers’ head coach, is known for being a confident risk-tasker in fourth down situations. In his first year with the organization (2021), the Chargers ranked fourth in fourth downs attempted, which appeared to be a clear indication that Staley was interested in playing an aggressive, no fear brand of football from the get-go.

Impressively, the Chargers’ fourth down conversation rate was above 60% that season, which also earned them a top 5 ranking in the NFL. During the following season, however, the Chargers took less chances on fourth down and saw their success rate drop below 60%. Despite finding a way to reach the playoffs in 2022 under Staley’s leadership, though, the Chargers’ inability to hold on to an early 27-0 lead against the Jaguars resulted in a premature playoff exit. This season, the Chargers have been involved in eight one-score ball games, but have only prevailed in three thus far, resulting in heavy criticism directed toward Staley. With a star-studded Quarterback like Justin Herbert under center, a reliable running back in the backfield like Austin Ekeler, and talented wide receivers on the outside like Keenan Evans and Joshua Palmer, the Chargers should have more than five wins on the season.

You see, the main cause for concern lies on the defensive side of the ball, as the Chargers are giving up 375 total yards per game (ranks 29th in the league). Staley, who was dedicated to calling plays on defense, failed to get the unit to play at a high level on a consistent basis. Yes, the offense has been far from perfect in 2023, but with a stronger defensive performance through the first 14 weeks of the season, it’s reasonable to assume that Staley would have at least received an opportunity to finish out the year. Losing to the Raiders 24-20 with a backup quarterback would have been one thing, but surrendering 63 points in a 60-minute contest (42 in the first half) and allowing 378 total yards of offense proved to be a fireable offense for Staley in mid-December.