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Chargers’ Defense Leads NFL in Scoring, Eyes Playoff Success

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Los Angeles Chargers Defense 2024 Playoffs

The Los Angeles Chargers have emerged as the NFL‘s top scoring defense in 2024, allowing just 17.7 points per game, a remarkable turnaround from previous seasons. This defensive resurgence has been spearheaded by stars Derwin James, Joey Bosa, and Khalil Mack, who have combined for 17 Pro Bowl selections and are among the highest-paid players at their positions.

The Chargers’ defense, which struggled in recent years, has found new life under the guidance of defensive coordinator Jesse Minter. Minter, who joined the team from the University of Michigan, has implemented a system that emphasizes teamwork and adaptability. ‘We take pride in being the best,’ said Derwin James, who earned his fourth Pro Bowl selection this season. ‘I want to win a Super Bowl.’

Khalil Mack, who considered retirement after the Chargers’ infamous 27-0 playoff collapse two seasons ago, returned to the team on a reduced contract. ‘I ain’t trying to play another six more years and chase a ring,’ Mack told ESPN. ‘I want to play meaningful football now.’ Joey Bosa, who also took a pay cut to stay with the Chargers, echoed Mack’s sentiment. ‘Winning football games is more important to me right now than making some extra money,’ Bosa said.

The trio’s chemistry has been a driving force behind the Chargers’ defensive success. ‘We know where we want to be, and those uncomfortable moments are going to make us special,’ James said. The Chargers’ defense will face a tough test in the wild-card playoff game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, a rematch of their 2022 collapse. For James, Bosa, and Mack, this could be their last chance to cement their legacy in Los Angeles.

Despite their individual accolades, the trio has yet to achieve team success, with zero playoff wins in three seasons together. ‘We ain’t got no time to waste,’ Mack said. ‘Especially me. We gotta win now.’ The Chargers’ defense, now among the league’s best, will be crucial to their playoff aspirations. ‘Everyone wants to make it right by them, make them proud,’ said quarterback Justin Herbert.