Dan Orlovsky Defended Justin Herbert Quarterback Evaluation
The analyst defended his support for the Chargers quarterback following a loss to the Arizona Cardinals.
Updated on Sept. 18, 2026 in Football
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Analyst Dan Orlovsky stood by his evaluation of Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert following the team's 26-14 loss to the Arizona Cardinals in Week 1. Orlovsky cited Herbert's physical traits and performance history as the basis for his continued support.
Why it matters
The defense came amid confrontation regarding Orlovsky's preference for Herbert over Jalen Hurts, whose performance in Week 1 drew contrasting results. Orlovsky remains firm in his prediction that Herbert will reach the top five of the MVP conversation by Thanksgiving.
In the Week 1 loss, Justin Herbert completed 17 of 27 passes for 209 yards and one touchdown. Meanwhile, Arizona Cardinals quarterback Jacoby Brissett threw for 277 yards and one touchdown, while Jalen Hurts logged three passing touchdowns and one rushing score.
The players
Dan Orlovsky
He is a former NFL quarterback who serves as an analyst for ESPN.
Justin Herbert
He is the starting quarterback for the Los Angeles Chargers who holds a 0-3 career record in NFL postseason games.
Jalen Hurts
He is an NFL quarterback who recorded three passing touchdowns and one rushing score during his Week 1 victory.
The details
Orlovsky discussed his quarterback methodology on the ESPN 2 program Unsportsmanlike, arguing that physical capabilities and career performance outweigh early-season results. The discourse intensified after the Los Angeles Chargers recorded 393 yards of total offense but fell to the Cardinals in the season opener.
Timeline
Last month, Orlovsky expressed his preference for the Chargers over the Chiefs.
In Week 1, the Chargers lost to the Cardinals and Jalen Hurts defeated the Commanders.
On Sept. 20, the Chargers are scheduled to host the Las Vegas Raiders.
By Thanksgiving, Orlovsky projects Herbert will be in the MVP conversation.
Season Trajectory
The debate highlights the scrutiny surrounding elite quarterbacks as the NFL season progresses toward playoff implications. This narrative impacts how analysts and fans evaluate early-season results against long-term MVP expectations.
Justin Herbert must overcome his 0-3 career postseason record to validate the high expectations set by analysts. Fantasy managers should monitor his efficiency heading into the September 20 game against the Las Vegas Raiders.
The takeaway
Quarterback evaluations in the NFL often prioritize long-term physical potential over individual game outcomes. Observers should track mid-season statistical growth to see if early-season predictions align with actual league standing.
Further reading
For more analysis on current league performances, visit the Football section.
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