{
  "id": 18374016,
  "title": "Chargers OC Mike McDaniel Responds to Trash Talk Against QB Justin Herbert",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/05/chargers-oc-mike-mcdaniel-responds-to-trash-talk-against-qb-justin",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-11-05T21:07:30.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Newsweek",
    "slug": "newsweek",
    "url": "https://www.newsweek.com/sports/nfl/chargers-oc-mike-mcdaniel-responds-to-trash-talk-against-qb-justin-herbert-12673605"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "During a recent podcast, Los Angeles Rams safety Quentin Lake made a pointed remark about Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert. Lake, who had intercepted Herbert twice during Sunday's Week 8 game at SoFi Stadium, criticized Herbert's performance, stating that he was throwing \"deli meat\" and seeing \"ghosts.\" \"I don't know what's going on,\" Lake remarked, implying that Herbert was struggling. This comment came from Lake as part of a broader critique of the Chargers' performance, which has been lackluster, with the team starting the season 0-7.\n\nWhen asked about Lake's comment, Chargers offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel maintained a level-headed response. McDaniel acknowledged that people were free to express their opinions, especially given the team's struggles. \"People are saying whatever they want with whatever facts they have when we're not living up to expectations,\" McDaniel remarked, emphasizing that the team should simply move on. Similarly, Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh echoed McDaniel's sentiment, stating that everyone is entitled to their opinion. The ongoing criticism has had a tangible impact on the Chargers' offense, as they have not scored a touchdown since Week 5. The situation takes on added importance as the Chargers prepare to face the Houston Texans in their upcoming Week 9 match.",
  "summary": "Los Angeles Chargers offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel responded to a recent jab directed at his quarterback Justin Herbert.",
  "key_points": [
    "Chargers OC Mike McDaniel responds to Rams safety Quentin Lake's trash talk.",
    "Lake criticized QB Justin Herbert, calling his throws \"deli meat\" and seeing \"ghosts\".",
    "McDaniel and head coach Jim Harbaugh maintain level-headed, supportive responses."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}