Chargers Fall to 0-7 After 24-9 Loss to Rams

The Los Angeles Chargers’ 24-9 defeat by the Rams on November 1 left them as the NFL’s only winless team at 0-7. The club entered the season with far higher expectations, but now faces a steep climb to remain in playoff contention: it would need to win its final 10 games to have much hope of reaching the postseason.

The defense kept the Rams in check early, allowing just 14 net yards across their first five possessions. But the Chargers’ offense struggled to respond and has now gone nine quarters without a touchdown. The team’s three running backs combined for 49 yards on 21 carries.

Undrafted rookie cornerback Isas Waxter stood out in his first NFL start, recording six tackles, including two for loss. He twice stopped Rams receiver Puka Nacua behind the line on screen plays. Receiver Ladd McConkey, back for a full game after early-season injuries, led the Chargers with 86 yards on four catches.

Rookie center Jake Slaughter had a difficult outing, while safety Elijah Molden missed several tackles and struggled with run defense. The Chargers were also without several defensive backs, including Derwin James. Coach Jim Harbaugh said it might make sense to reduce the running-back rotation to help one player establish a rhythm.

The team has given no sign it plans to trade veteran players as it tries to recover. Its next game is at home against the 2-5 Houston Texans on Sunday.Receiver Brenen Thompson is unlikely to practice this week, while tight end David Njoku is expected to return to practice.