Oh no, J-Herb!

Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert, who had only three passes intercepted throughout the entire regular season, hit that mark in just over three quarters during Saturday’s wild card game against the Houston Texans. He exceeded that total with a fourth interception in the final three minutes.

In just his second playoff game in his fifth season as the Chargers’ starting quarterback, Herbert’s impressive regular season performance—boasting a 65.9% completion rate, 3,870 passing yards, and 23 touchdowns to only three interceptions—played a significant role in the team’s progression this far, despite having a weak group of wide receivers.

It’s quite a twist that Herbert’s miscues in Houston were a major factor in preventing the Chargers from progressing to the next round.

Justin Herbert Throws Four Interceptions Against Texans

Herbert, 26, recorded his first interception early in the second quarter. Attempting to make a big play, he threw a long pass across his body while rolling out of the pocket. The throw lingered too long in the air, and cornerback Kamari Lassiter capitalized on the mistake.

His second interception occurred late in the third quarter. Under pressure from left tackle Rashawn Slater, who was pushed nearly into his legs, Herbert couldn’t fully commit to his pass aimed at standout rookie receiver Ladd McConkey. The ball went too high, allowing safety Eric Murray to intercept it and take it back for a touchdown.

Herbert’s third interception is one he can blame the least. Just four plays after his second pick, he dropped back and attempted a side-arm throw as the Texans’ pass rush converged on him.

The throw was directed towards tight end Will Dissly, who unfortunately couldn’t make the catch. Dissly tipped the ball into the hands of Derek Stingley Jr. If not for a great tackle by running back J.K. Dobbins, that interception might have also resulted in a touchdown.

With only three minutes remaining, Herbert made his fourth and final interception, which largely dashed the Chargers’ hopes of advancing in the playoffs.

This time, he underthrew D.J. Chark while trying to expedite the offense’s progress down the field. Once again, Stingley was in the vicinity and jumped to intercept the pass, marking his second pick of the night.

Justin Herbert’s Stats Today

Here is a summary of Herbert’s statistics from the Chargers’ wild card round loss against the Texans:

• Completion rate: 14-of-32 (43.8%)
• Passing yards: 242
• Touchdowns: 1
• Interceptions: 4
• Passer rating: 40.9