Coming into Sunday’s game, the Chiefs had allowed the second-most opening drive points of any NFL team with 17. After giving the Chargers the ball on their own 26 following a Carson Steele fumble, Kansas City also allowed three plays of 10 or more yards as Los Angeles marched down the field.
The third of that set was a 15 yard curl to rookie receiver Ladd McConkey to set up LA with first and goal from the 9 yard line. After a Gus Edwards carry gained 2 yards, the Chargers set up on second and goal from the 7.
Justin Herbert faked a handoff and dropped back, delivering a throw as he was hit by Chiefs defender Malik Herring. At first, it looked like he was simply throwing the ball away in the direction of McConkey, but the rookie worked back to the ball in tight coverage and made a fantastic catch.
McConkey had his right knee down when he caught the ball, making it a legal touchdown for the Chargers. The score, McConkey’s second of the season, opened a 7-0 Chargers lead.
HERBO TO LADD
📺 | @nfloncbs pic.twitter.com/MZ7sG4NIGy
— Los Angeles Chargers (@chargers) September 29, 2024
