Washington Football Team: Week 1 Reality Checks for Washington vs Chargers

LANDOVER, MARYLAND - AUGUST 20: Ryan Fitzpatrick #14 of the Washington Football Team throws a pass during the NFL preseason game against the Cincinnati Bengals at FedExField on August 20, 2021 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Greg Fiume/Getty Images)
LANDOVER, MARYLAND - AUGUST 20: Ryan Fitzpatrick #14 of the Washington Football Team throws a pass during the NFL preseason game against the Cincinnati Bengals at FedExField on August 20, 2021 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Greg Fiume/Getty Images) /
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Chargers QB  Justin Herbert (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images)
Chargers QB  Justin Herbert (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images) /

5. The Reality Is, nobody knows how the Chargers’ approach to the preseason will go.

The Chargers have a new coaching staff led by Brandon Staley (a defensive mind from the Sean McVay tree). They have a sophomore Quarterback coming off a Offensive Rookie of the Year season. They also get Joey Bosa back at 100% after missing parts of last season. They’re a dark horse pick to make the playoffs. But, they’ve treated the preseason like a nuisance, refusing to play the vast majority of their starters.

Given the change in both defensive and offensive philosophy, it’s almost impossible to even scout this team effectively. It’s entirely possible they come out with a creative and massively effective gameplan both offensively and defensively. They certainly have a roster capable of a fast start to this season. However, it’s also possible that their lack of game reps together as a unit, in their new systems will lead to a slow start this season, which would be great for Washington Football fans.

Prediction: Look for the Chargers to look a bit rusty early, giving Washington the opportunity to jump out to an early lead if they can capitalize.