The Los Angeles Chargers dominated the Minnesota Vikings on Thursday night, securing a convincing 37-10 victory. In the NFL, it’s rare to see teams bounce back so strongly after a tough loss, but the Bolts showed exactly that this time around.
Last Sunday, the Indianapolis Colts throttled the Chargers 38-24. With just three days of rest, the Chargers responded with a blowout victory of their own. The Chargers’ defense was outstanding, limiting the Vikings to only 10 points. The only notable success for Minnesota came off an interception, which gave them a short field. Even without superstar safety Derwin James for most of the game, the defense held firm.
James started the game and played the first defensive drive, making a big third-down stop against Carson Wentz and the Vikings. Although he appeared to be fine initially, James suffered a slight ankle injury during that drive. The injury has since been classified as a low-ankle sprain, but fortunately, it does not seem to be serious. James did not return to the game, but the defense was able to perform well in his absence.
The Chargers are planning to get an MRI on James’ ankle. Fortunately, the team has 10 days off before their next game, which will be an away matchup against the Tennessee Titans. This break should provide ample time for James to recover.
After the win, head coach Jim Harbaugh praised the team’s physical performance, describing their approach as one of “violence” against the Vikings. Harbaugh said, “A good plan executed with violence now is better than a perfect plan a week from now. You guys were violent and came out here with a physical team. The way you guys were rolling off the ball—the offensive line, defensive line—that was a physical, physical job you got done there. And also, the leadership of this team. K-Mack, Justin, Boze, Joe Alt, Daiyan. All the guys. I thought that was a player-led type of game, so well done.”
The Bolts boast a wealth of team leaders, and Derwin James is certainly among their best. However, the Chargers will not rush his return, prioritizing his full recovery. With the Titans coming up next and a full two weeks off afterward, missing that game may be the best decision for both James and the team.
Following their game against Tennessee, the Chargers will host the Pittsburgh Steelers for Sunday Night Football—another big challenge for this motivated squad.
https://clutchpoints.com/nfl/los-angeles-chargers/chargers-news-derwin-james-to-undergo-mri-for-ankle-injury