Mike McDaniel's Run Game: A Crisis in the Making for the Chargers

The Heart of the Problem

As we enter Week 3 of the 2026 NFL season, it's becoming increasingly clear that the Los Angeles Chargers are struggling with one of the most critical aspects of offensive football: running the ball effectively. Under head coach Mike McDaniel, who has only been at the helm for a short time, the team's ground game is near an all-time low. It's not just a matter of bad luck or poor execution—this is a systemic issue that requires immediate attention.

"We're not just running the ball; we're setting up our entire offensive identity," I said while reviewing footage of the Chargers' early-season performances. "When the run game falters, everything else suffers."

McDaniel has had only one other 2-game stretch in his coaching career where his run game was worse than what we're seeing now, which is a troubling statistic. The numbers don't lie—this is a concerning trend that's impacting not just the team's ability to control the clock but also their offensive rhythm and morale.

A Tactical Breakdown

Looking at the numbers, the Chargers are averaging less than 3 yards per carry in their first two games. That's well below league average and far short of what it takes to dominate on the ground. In fact, their rushing efficiency is among the worst in the NFL so far this season.

The lack of consistency is particularly alarming when you consider how crucial a strong running game is for offensive balance. When defenses can predict the Chargers' next move—especially with their passing-heavy approach—they gain a significant advantage. That's not to say that McDaniel isn't attempting to implement a balanced attack; it's clear he has good intentions. However, execution is another story entirely.

Where Is the Rushing Attack?

It's not just about yards per carry or total rushing attempts—it's about execution. The Chargers have failed to establish a consistent running game, and that failure is becoming apparent in their offensive flow. Their quarterback is often left scrambling for throws because the running game isn't opening up enough space on the field.

The lack of a strong run game has also led to the Chargers falling behind in the first quarter. When you can't get off to a quick start with the ground game, you're setting yourself up for a long day. That's exactly what happened in their early games this season—defensive pressure was relentless, and the Chargers couldn't escape it.

Even when they do have opportunities, the execution is lacking. The offensive line struggles to create holes, the running backs aren't finding lanes, and the coaching staff seems to be missing key strategic decisions that could help change the tide. It's a frustrating combination of factors, and it's becoming harder to ignore with each game.

Why This Matters

This isn't just about stats or a few missed runs—it's about building an identity. The Chargers have always prided themselves on being a dynamic offense, but without a reliable run game, that identity becomes hollow. A strong ground attack gives the team control and creates a foundation for the rest of the offensive play-calling.

When you consider the talent in the backfield, especially with players like Justin Jackson and others, the underperformance is even more puzzling. These are athletes who should be thriving in a running-oriented scheme. Yet, it's the coaching that seems to be the limiting factor here—not the players.

I've seen plenty of young coaches struggle with run game development, especially in the NFL. What's different about McDaniel is that he's got a lot of potential, but right now, his team is falling short in an area that could be the difference between a good season and a great one.

Looking Ahead

There's still time for this to turn around. But as we move into Week 3 and beyond, I'm watching closely. The Chargers need a new offensive identity—something that can establish dominance on the ground. Without it, the rest of their season could be a struggle.

I believe McDaniel has the tools and experience to fix this, but he'll need to make some tough decisions quickly. The team's success depends on it, and fans are starting to feel the heat. If we don't see a major improvement in the next few games, questions about his strategy and leadership will only grow louder.

The Road Forward

Let's not forget that this is a new coaching regime. Change doesn't happen overnight, but it also can't be ignored if it's impacting performance. The Chargers are still young, and they're still building their identity under McDaniel's leadership. That's a positive thing, but it also means they're in a vulnerable position right now.

What's clear is that the Chargers need to start taking more control of the game early. The run game must be a priority—not just as a way to keep defenses honest, but as a way to set up explosive plays for the future. We've seen this before—teams with strong run games often dominate the second half, especially when they're able to get their offensive rhythm going.

If McDaniel is serious about making this offense a powerhouse, he needs to address this now. The clock is ticking, and every play matters. Let's see if he can rally his team before it's too late.