Chargers beat Raiders 20-9 as Justin Herbert throws two touchdown passes
Los Angeles wins in Las Vegas behind efficient passing and three interceptions by the defense
The Los Angeles Chargers defeated the Las Vegas Raiders 20-9 on Monday night at Allegiant Stadium, getting two touchdown passes from quarterback Justin Herbert and three interceptions from their defense.
Herbert was efficient, completing 18 of 26 passes for 235 yards and two scores, finding Keenan Allen and Quentin Johnston in the end zone. Allen's touchdown put the Chargers up 10-3 when Herbert, flushed from the pocket, hit him in the back right of the end zone. Johnston's 60-yard scoring catch in the second quarter came on a clean pocket and extended Los Angeles' lead.
The Chargers' defense frequently disrupted Raiders quarterback Geno Smith, who finished 24 of 43 for 180 yards with three interceptions and no touchdowns. Daiyan Henley, Tony Jefferson and Donte Jackson each recorded interceptions. Las Vegas managed only three field goals from Daniel Carlson.
Los Angeles relied on a balanced approach but struggled to establish a consistent ground game against a stout Raiders front. Rookie Omarion Hampton carried eight times for 24 yards, while Najee Harris had eight touches for 28 yards. Herbert led Chargers rushers with nine carries for 31 yards. Raiders rookie Ashton Jeanty ran 11 times for 42 yards. Star tight end Brock Bowers, playing through a knee issue, had five catches for 38 yards.
The victory followed Los Angeles' season-opening win in São Paulo, Brazil, over the Kansas City Chiefs, in which Herbert helped snap a long losing streak to the division rival. Herbert's connection with Johnston has produced multiple big plays early in the season; Johnston entered the game with two touchdowns from the opener and added his third in Las Vegas.
The Chargers improved to 2-0 and will open their home schedule next week against the Denver Broncos at SoFi Stadium. The Raiders, 0-2, will travel to face the Washington Commanders as they seek their first win of the season.
Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh praised the team's defense for creating turnovers and noted the offense's ability to capitalize in the red zone. Raiders coach called out the need for cleaner quarterback play and more production in the running game as Las Vegas looks to respond in Week 3. The game featured a physical tempo and defensive stands that kept scoring limited, with Los Angeles converting turnovers into decisive points.