Justin Herbert's professional football career has been, at times, nitpicked incessantly.
His play has warranted criticism, such as the Los Angeles Chargers' 0-2 record in the postseason with the former Oregon standout under center and his disastrous Wildcard weekend meltdown against the Houston Texans last year, where he tossed four interceptions en route to a loss.
But so far this year, Herbert has lived up to the hype, guiding Los Angeles to a 3-0 record over three division opponents while throwing for 860 yards, six touchdowns, and just one interception. The former No. 6 overall pick has even been able to silence one of his harshest critics.
Emmanuel Acho Issues Apology to Justin Herbert
Emmanuel Acho, former NFL player, current analyst, and longtime Herbert "hater," issued an apology to the signal-caller he once deemed a "social media quarterback."
"Justin Herbert is clutch now. He's activated his clutch gene. Justin Herbert is a full-grown German Shepherd. Justin Herbert is a dog just looking for a bone," Acho said on an episode of his podcast, Speakeasy.
Week 1 he found one in Brazil. Then Week 2, he found one in Vegas. And then Week 3, he just now found one again. Justin Herbert has arrived people. We used to applaud him for his talent. But now? Justin Herbert got real game."
It's cool to see Herbert getting some of the respect he deserves from analysts who thought he was an empty-stats guy. Now, thanks to the Chargers' hot start, he's put the league on notice.
Of course, it's only been three games, and there is a lot of football left to be played. But for now, the former Oregon Duck can take a victory lap knowing one of his biggest detractors is becoming a fan.
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