Broncos Defeated Chargers 23-17 in Inglewood

The Los Angeles Chargers have fallen to a 0-5 record following three consecutive fourth-quarter turnovers.

Updated on Oct. 11, 2026 in Football

Broncos Defeated Chargers 23-17 in Inglewood

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The Denver Broncos defeated the Los Angeles Chargers 23-17 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood. The loss marks the first time the Chargers have started a season 0-5 since 2003.

Why it matters

The Chargers struggled with offensive production, managing only 74 yards in the first half and surrendering the lead after committing three straight turnovers in the fourth quarter. The team was hampered by injuries to key players including Joe Alt, Rashawn Slater, Derwin James Jr., and Ladd McConkey.

Quarterback Justin Herbert was sacked 5 times during the match. The Chargers managed 74 total yards in the first half compared to 129 total yards by the Broncos.

The players

Justin Herbert

He is the starting quarterback for the Los Angeles Chargers.

Kimani Vidal

He is a running back for the Los Angeles Chargers who scored a touchdown in the game.

Joe Alt

He is an offensive lineman for the Los Angeles Chargers who missed the game due to injury.

Rashawn Slater

He is a professional football player for the Los Angeles Chargers who was sidelined with an injury.

Derwin James Jr.

He is a safety for the Los Angeles Chargers who did not play in this matchup.

The details

The game turned following a fourth-and-one stop that allowed the Broncos to tie the contest. Despite a 42-yard touchdown run by Kimani Vidal, the Chargers offense could not overcome the pressure on their quarterback and the late turnover streak.

Timeline

  1. The Chargers last started a season 0-5 in 2003.

  2. The game between the Chargers and Broncos took place on October 11, 2026.

  3. The Chargers are scheduled to play the Kansas City Chiefs next Sunday.

Season Trajectory

This 0-5 start significantly diminishes the Chargers' immediate playoff prospects while highlighting deep roster concerns. The team must now look to recover production following their upcoming bye week and the difficult stretch of games ahead.

The Chargers are now 0-5, forcing an immediate reevaluation of the team's depth chart and offensive strategy. Investors and fans should monitor the injury report regarding the return dates for key starters like Slater and James Jr.

The takeaway

The Chargers must prioritize offensive line protection to prevent further sacks on their primary quarterback. Addressing the recent turnover trend is essential before the upcoming game against Kansas City.

What happens next

The Chargers play the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday, followed by a game against the Los Angeles Rams after a bye week.

Further reading

For more news on the league, visit the Football section.

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