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The Los Angeles Chargers march into MetLife Stadium riding high on their perfect 3-0 start, marking their best beginning since 2002. With Jim Harbaugh’s revolutionary coaching transforming this franchise and the Giants struggling at 0-3 while turning to rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart for his NFL debut, the stage is set for the Chargers to make a statement on the road. Here are three bold predictions that could define this pivotal Week 4 matchup.
Justin Herbert has been nothing short of spectacular through three games, completing 72 passes for 860 yards and six touchdowns with just one interception. The sixth-year quarterback has already become the youngest player ever to reach 2,000 career completions at 27 years and 195 days old, showcasing the elite trajectory he’s maintained under Harbaugh’s offensive system.
Against a Giants defense that has allowed opponents to convert 71% of fourth-down attempts (22nd in NFL) and surrendered big plays consistently, Herbert is primed for a career performance. The Giants’ secondary will be tested early and often, particularly with their struggles in coverage that have plagued them through three weeks. Herbert’s pinpoint accuracy on downfield throws, evidenced by his 77.0% on-target percentage last season, should exploit New York’s vulnerable defensive backfield.
The Chargers’ aerial attack has been potent, ranking sixth in total yards despite Harbaugh’s traditionally run-heavy philosophy. With Keenan Allen providing veteran leadership in the slot and the emerging chemistry Herbert showed with his receivers during the comeback victory over Denver, expect the quarterback to dissect a Giants defense that ranks poorly in multiple defensive categories. Herbert’s ability to extend plays with his mobility, combined with his improved pocket presence, should result in multiple explosive passing plays that push him well over 350 yards through the air.
Rookie running back Omarion Hampton has already announced his arrival in the NFL with his first career touchdown against Denver, and the first-round pick from North Carolina is positioned for a breakout performance against New York’s porous run defense. Hampton’s college resume speaks volumes – he rushed for 1,660 yards and 15 touchdowns in his final season at UNC, demonstrating the power-running ability that made him an attractive target for Harbaugh’s ground-oriented attack.
Omarion Hampton’s first NFL TD!
DENvsLAC on CBS/Paramount+https://t.co/HkKw7uXVnt pic.twitter.com/o65ViiNCR5
— NFL (@NFL) September 21, 2025
The Giants have struggled mightily against the run, allowing opponents to average significant yardage on the ground while failing to contain rushing attacks consistently. Hampton’s 4.46 speed in the 40-yard dash combined with his 221-pound frame makes him an ideal fit for Harbaugh’s physical running scheme that has already shown effectiveness through three weeks. The Chargers have established their ground game as a foundational element, and Hampton’s fresh legs should wear down a Giants front seven that has been on the field extensively due to their offensive struggles.
With the Giants expected to focus heavily on stopping Herbert’s...
