Watch: Chargers off to embarrassing start on 'TNF'

Los Angeles Chargers HC Brandon Staley Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

Watch: Chargers off to embarrassing start with three first-half fumbles on 'Thursday Night Football'

By Eric Smithling | Last updated 12/14/23

Did the Chargers quit on Brandon Staley?

That's the only explanation for the team's pathetic first-half performance on Thursday night against the Las Vegas Raiders.

After Las Vegas was held scoreless in a 3-0 loss to the Minnesota Vikings in Week 14, it easily marched down the field against Staley's defense on its opening drive, scoring a touchdown for a 7-0 lead.

The wheels fell off for the Chargers from there, with Malcolm Koonce forcing a fumble which was recovered by 2023 first-round pick Tyree Wilson on a sack of quarterback Easton Stick during Los Angeles' ensuing position.

Raiders force a turnover #LACvsLV on Prime Video
Also available on #NFLPlus https://t.co/ga7O4RMwdt pic.twitter.com/smsju5gtYg
— NFL (@NFL) December 15, 2023

On the first play of the Chargers offense's ensuing drive, trailing 14-0, running back Joshua Kelley fumbled, giving the ball to the Raiders at the Chargers 31-yard line. Less than two minutes later, the score was 21-0.

Dear god this isn’t looking good for the Chargers pic.twitter.com/CeXgimG7ua
— Mr Matthew CFB (@MrMatthew_CFB) December 15, 2023

With both the offense and defense deciding not to show up for Thursday night's game, the special teams also decided to pack it in early.

Raiders corner DJ Turner forced a fumble by Chargers punt returner Derius Davis midway through the second quarter.

DJ Turner ripped the ball out and recovered it #LACvsLV on Prime Video
Also available on #NFLPlus https://t.co/ga7O4RMwdt pic.twitter.com/vt0RI7SF6E
— NFL (@NFL) December 15, 2023

The Raiders scored another touchdown two plays later.

The disastrous first half for the Chargers is the clearest sign yet that the organization needs a change at head coach. Staley has long been on the hot seat since his team blew a 27-point lead in last season's wild-card round to the Jaguars but this performance should be the final straw.

ESPN's Field Yates said what everyone watching "Thursday Night Football" thought after Los Angeles' third turnover.

What an unserious performance by the Chargers.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) December 15, 2023

The Chargers trail 42-0 at the half. Instead of discussing halftime adjustments, Staley might want to start packing. It wouldn't surprise anyone if this ends up being his swan song.

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