Herbert's Playoff Curse: Can He Finally Win?

Justin Herbert, since entering the NFL in 2020, has established himself as one of the league's elite quarterbacks. He holds records for most passing yards and completions within his first five and six seasons, respectively, and consistently ranks among the top in total touchdowns. Despite his regular-season dominance, Herbert's postseason record remains a significant point of criticism.

His playoff career is marked by two losses. In January 2023, the Chargers suffered a dramatic 31-30 defeat to the Jaguars after squandering a 27-0 lead. While Herbert played adequately statistically, the team's second-half collapse overshadowed his performance. A subsequent wild card loss in 2024 saw him throw a career-high four interceptions against the Houston Texans in a 32-12 defeat.

As the Chargers prepare for another crucial playoff game, Herbert has a critical opportunity to earn his first playoff win and silence critics. His current 0-2 playoff record, combined with the memory of a historic collapse and a four-interception game, weighs heavily on his postseason narrative. This upcoming matchup is pivotal for cementing his status as an elite quarterback.