The Los Angeles Chargers have been making waves in the off-season, with their stacked team and the addition of solid weapons on both sides of the field. With the hiring of proven winner Jim Harbaugh as head coach, many are predicting that the Chargers will be a top contender this season. However, former player Ryan Clark has raised some doubts about the team’s quarterback, Justin Herbert, on ESPN’s First Take. His comments have certainly turned heads and sparked a debate among fans and analysts alike.
Clark’s statement about Herbert’s “clutch gene” has caused quite a stir in the football world. For those who may not be familiar with the term, the “clutch gene” refers to a player’s ability to perform well under pressure, especially in critical situations. This is a trait that is highly valued in any sport, and particularly in football where a single play can make or break a game.
Herbert, who was drafted 6th overall by the Chargers in the 2020 NFL draft, had an impressive rookie season. He threw for over 4,300 yards and 31 touchdowns, setting multiple franchise records and earning the Offensive Rookie of the Year award. However, it seems that his performance may not have been enough to convince Clark of his abilities.
During the discussion on First Take, Clark stated, “I don’t believe he has that gene, that gene that says ‘when everything else is going bad, I’m going to make it right’.” This statement has caused quite a stir among Chargers fans and supporters of Herbert. But is there any truth to Clark’s doubts?
While it is true that Herbert may not have had as many opportunities to showcase his clutch abilities in his rookie season, there were certainly moments where he stepped up in pressure situations. Take, for example, the Chargers’ game against the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 15. Down by 7 points with less than a minute left in the game, Herbert led the Chargers on a game-tying drive that ultimately sent the game to overtime. While they did end up losing in the end, it was a clear demonstration of Herbert’s ability to handle pressure and deliver in critical moments.
Furthermore, it is important to remember that Herbert was only a rookie last season. He was thrown into a starting role unexpectedly after an injury to the Chargers’ original starting quarterback, Tyrod Taylor. He had to quickly adjust to the speed and complexity of the NFL game, while also building chemistry with his new teammates. Despite these challenges, Herbert proved to be a reliable and talented quarterback, with several game-winning drives under his belt.
It is also worth noting that Herbert has received high praise from his teammates and coaches for his work ethic and leadership on and off the field. He has been praised for his maturity and ability to handle pressure, which are both important traits for a successful quarterback.
Ultimately, it is unfair to judge Herbert’s “clutch gene” based on just one season. As he continues to develop and gain experience, it is likely that he will only improve in this aspect of his game. With the support of a strong team and a proven winner like Jim Harbaugh as his coach, Herbert has all the tools he needs to succeed and prove his doubters wrong.
In conclusion, while Ryan Clark’s doubts about Justin Herbert may have caused a stir in the football world, they should not be taken as a reflection of Herbert’s abilities as a quarterback. With his impressive rookie season and the support of a stacked team and a proven winner as his coach, Herbert has all the potential to become one of the top quarterbacks in the league. Let’s not jump to conclusions and instead give him the chance to continue proving himself on the field. As they say, actions speak louder than words, and we have no doubt that Herbert will rise to the occasion and silence his critics.
