Herbert Shines as Chargers Top Chiefs in Brazil
The Los Angeles Chargers opened their 2025 season in dramatic fashion, and it happened on one of the biggest stages possible — in Brazil, against their long-standing divisional rival, the Kansas City Chiefs. For years, the Chiefs had held the upper hand in this matchup, with the Chargers carrying a losing streak against Kansas City all the way from late 2021. But that baggage was finally left behind, as Los Angeles came out on top with a 27–21 victory.
This win felt like more than just a Week 1 result. It marked a turning point, especially in the second year of Jim Harbaugh’s leadership. Last season, the Chargers built their identity around a run-heavy offense. But when the curtain lifted on 2025, a different plan was revealed. Instead of pounding the ground, the Chargers leaned on Justin Herbert’s arm, and that decision paid off beautifully. Right from the start, Los Angeles opened with a crisp scoring drive that put the Chiefs on the back foot. And in the fourth quarter, when many teams might have chosen to play it safe and run out the clock, the Chargers doubled down on Herbert’s passing, sealing the game with another score.
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- Justin Herbert Shines as Chargers Stun Chiefs in Brazil Opener
Herbert himself was simply outstanding. He threw for 318 yards and three touchdowns, without a single interception. He even used his legs when it mattered most, scrambling for a huge 19-yard gain on third-and-14 that essentially iced the contest. His connection with Quentin Johnston proved deadly, as the young receiver hauled in two touchdown catches, including the dagger late in the game. Keenan Allen also came up clutch, keeping drives alive with timely grabs. The Chargers’ offense, often questioned for being too predictable in the past, showed layers of creativity and composure in this one.
On the defensive side, Los Angeles made life tough for Patrick Mahomes early, particularly on third downs. Kansas City, one of the best teams in the league at converting those situations last year, failed to complete any of their first seven attempts. That forced the Chiefs into risky plays, like deep throws and heavy blitz calls, which the Chargers were more than ready to counter.
For Kansas City, the night was a sobering reminder that their defense has taken a step back since their last Super Bowl run in 2023. The offseason losses in the secondary were exposed in a big way, as Herbert carved them up through the air. While Mahomes and Travis Kelce still managed to put up big plays, it wasn’t enough to overcome the balance and execution displayed by Los Angeles.
In the end, this wasn’t just a win for the Chargers — it was a statement. A statement that they’re ready to contend, ready to shake off the shadow of the Chiefs, and ready to do it with Herbert leading the way. Now 1-0, the Chargers return home with momentum, preparing for a Monday night clash against the Raiders. And if this game was any indication, the rest of the AFC West should be on notice.
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