Justin Herbert and the Los Angeles Chargers will face Patrick Mahomes' Kansas City Chiefs in their season opener on Friday in Brazil. To beat a team like the Chiefs, the Chargers must be firing on all cylinders, and their quarterback, Herbert, should lead the charge. However, doubts persist about whether he can perform when the stakes are highest and the team needs him most.
On Thursday, ESPN analyst Ryan Clark delivered a sharp critique of the Chargers quarterback. Clark questions Herbert's ability to perform in critical moments, describing him as "terrible whenever it matters."
Clark referenced Herbert's playoff shortcomings and inconsistent performances in big games, saying, "Justin Herbert didn’t win big games in college as talented as he was. … You lose a 27-0 lead. … You can go throw four interceptions against the Texans."
Clark acknowledged Herbert's talent, calling him "the fun friend," someone you want at a party, but "if something serious is happening, you don't bring him over because he's not responsible, accountable, and you can't depend on him."
"Justin Herbert, whenever it matters, has been terrible."@Realrclark25 shares his thoughts on Justin Herbert ahead of the Chargers' game against the Chiefs 👀 pic.twitter.com/iuGMqSNZy1
— First Take (@FirstTake) September 4, 2025
Herbert's playoff struggles have become a focal point of criticism. However, Jim Harbaugh's team will aim to set those concerns aside when they face the Chiefs. A win against one of the top Super Bowl contenders could provide a strong start to the season.
For Herbert, such a victory would be important.