Chargers roll to 2-0 after shutting down the Raiders in Las Vegas, stifling Geno Smith and forcing three interceptions while keeping the end zone empty. A Week 3 date at home versus Denver could push LA to 3-0, starting a potentially historic run in a difficult early schedule. Across the media landscape, LA climbs in power rankings as Herbert plays at an MVP level and the defense tightens, even as the run game remains a work in progress.

Raiders fall 20-9 at home as the Chargers’ defense harasses Geno Smith all night and Vegas’ run game sputters. Smith’s three interceptions and a handful of stalled drives sap the offense, while Los Angeles leans on timely big plays from Keenan Allen and Quentin Johnston. Brock Bowers is active but yards are scarce. Las Vegas’ defense battles, but the discrepancy in three phases keeps this from a closer result. Week 3 preview: Washington looms.

Chargers' defense steals the show in a 20-9 win over the Raiders as Herbert labors yet LA improves to 2-0. Through two weeks, the unit sits among the league’s stingiest, having allowed only 30 points and not a single first-half TD. The defense harassed Geno Smith all night, combining three interceptions, three sacks, and relentless pressure that kept Las Vegas from threatening late.

Daiyan Henley anchors with 10 tackles (2 for loss), an interception, two pass defenses and an 11-yard sack; Quentin Johnston breaks through with a 60-yard score after Week 1 success; Tony Jefferson shines after a late call-up with a key end-zone breakup and a pick near the goal line. Jesse Minter’s group clamps down on the run and soldiers through a long, grueling drive to seal it.

Herbert is guiding a pass-heavy Chargers attack, signaling an evolution under Harbaugh away from the old-school run-first trope. The offense aims to maximize Herbert’s arm with a sharper skill corps and a more versatile backfield.

In the MNF win over the Raiders, the Chargers leaned into the aerial game with 27 pass attempts to 26 rushes, Herbert delivering 242 yards and 2 TDs. Johnston, Hampton, and Harris give Herbert more route-running and reliability, while Mack’s health and Perryman’s status loom as potential swing factors in a crowded AFC race.