Nick Canepa’s report card: Chargers’ defense, coaches flunk test vs. Colts

Nick Canepa grades the Chargers following Sunday’s 38-24 loss to the Colts at SoFi Stadium:

Quarterbacks: B

Now here is a gamer. Justin Herbert tried to stand 6-feet-6 in his team’s putrid urine-yellow uniform. Problem. He had receivers but not much else. Had a pass knocked in the air when down 20-3 and picked by a lineman. Then threw an all-on–him interception in the end zone that could have made it a 20-10 game. Instead it became 23-3 at the half. He would throw for 424 yards. Big deal. He was knocked down nine times.

Running backs: NN (not necessary)

Kimani Vidal had a big game last week filling in for Omerion Hampton. No chance in this one, what with his team beyond repair early with basically no hope,

Receivers: A

Rookie Oronde Gadsden had a nice gain before limping off, then came back to make a big catch, then opened the second half with a beautiful 53-yard catch and run, then having the game of his life (two TDs, 164 yards).  Will Dissly had a big drop off a perfect Herbert pass. Keenan Allen is always around and simply continues to make plays. A big day, including a short TD (119 yards). Ladd McConkey had nine catches for 67 yards. Quentin Johnston came up with their first down after the break.

Offensive line: F

Austin Deculus, the sixth and last remaining tackle on a battered group, got an ankle on the first offensive snap. Returned to the fray. They’re absolutely too beaten up to be any good, let alone championship quality.

Defensive line: F

No pass rush. Otito Ogbonnia hurt his left arm early (friendly fire as the Colts went right down field and scored). But the problem right away was the Colts’ O-line just being too good. Teair Tart had a weak hand to the face, then a nice TFL.

Linebackers: F

Allowed 17 first-half first downs. Khalil Mack and Denzel Perryman were activated, with Denzel starting and making the first tackle. Mack had his first sack, a big one. But nobody in this class excelled.

Secondary: F

Corner Dontae Jackson can run with the fastest. Cam Hart had a breakup near the goal line. Everybody got beat on a 48-yard pass off a third-and-17 (biggest play of the game). Even Derwin James got taken for a TD, adding to the frustration.

Special teams: F

Allowed an 81-yard return after scoring a touchdown. Horrible. The worst thing that can happen. Back-breaking. Automatic F. Nyheim Hines is a good kickoff return guy.

Coaching: F

Jim Harbaugh’s  team got whipped in all three phases. What’s the excuse for the porous defense? These guys made Indy look like the greatest show on grass. Not many big injuries on this D. This game was so untypically Harbaugh.

Next opportunity— vs. Vikings: F

This is a Thursday night game, which means the winner likely will be the one that spent the least amount of time flirting with the nurse. And we all know who that’s going to be.