LA Chargers' Herbert Stands Out in Playoff-Clinching Win Against Patriots

Justin Herbert had an impressive game, throwing three touchdowns to help the Los Angeles Chargers secure their second playoff appearance in three seasons. The team beat the New England Patriots 40-7, which is also the fourth postseason appearance for coach Jim Harbaugh in five seasons. Herbert's performance made him the third player in NFL history with at least 3, 000 passing yards and 20 touchdowns in each of his first five seasons, joining Peyton Manning and Russell Wilson. Rookie receiver Ladd McConkey also had a notable game with eight catches for 94 yards and two touchdowns, surpassing 1, 000 receiving yards for the season. On the other side, the Patriots faced a tough day with their sixth straight loss, making their home record 2-14 over the last two seasons. Rookie quarterback Drake Maye had a rough game, being sacked four times and fumbling once, but still managed to toss a touchdown pass, becoming the first rookie in franchise history to do so in eight straight games. The Chargers dominated the game, outgaining New England 428-181.