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Los Angeles Chargers offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel announced on Thursday that he will relocate from the sideline to the press box to call plays starting in Week 9. The operational change comes as the winless Chargers enter the ninth week of the 2026 NFL season with an 0-7 record and an offense ranking among the worst in the league.
Change of Perspective Following Offensive Struggles
McDaniel explained that he initiated the shift after discussions with head coach Jim Harbaugh, seeking a clearer view of the field to make adjustments and communicate effectively with position coaches between possessions.
“One of the things I talked with [Jim Harbaugh] about, one of the things that I want to try is call plays from the box to kind of see adjustments for myself and communicate to the position coaches appropriately what we can focus on between series,” McDaniel said.
He expressed openness to trying new approaches following the team’s poor start.
“I’m being very open-minded with all things. Not trying to prove or justify anything that ultimately leads to underwhelming results. You do your best. You make decisions from a point of information, expertise, and integrity, and then you understand that no one is going to care unless something changes,” McDaniel said.
He added that his trust in the remaining coaching personnel on the field made the move possible.
“Seems like a good action to take based on how things have gone this year and realistically something that I’ve only brought up because of … I’m very confident in the rest of the offensive coaching staff and how they’re able to set the tone and communicate information on the sidelines. So I feel a little bit more comfortable to try that,” he said.
Statistical Decline and Quarterback Regressions
The play-calling adjustment follows severe statistical declines across the Chargers’ offensive unit. Los Angeles currently ranks last in the NFL in scoring, averaging 14.1 points per game, and 28th in total offense, averaging 288.3 yards per game. The team also ranks 30th in yards per play and has recorded 17 turnovers through seven games.
The offense has failed to score a touchdown in its past two games. The Chargers’ last touchdown occurred during the third quarter of their Week 5 game against the Denver Broncos, leading to a streak of 27 consecutive drives without a touchdown.
Quarterback Justin Herbert has struggled during the winless start, throwing five touchdowns and 10 interceptions. His performance in fourth quarters has been particularly challenging, yielding six turnovers and zero touchdowns during the final period this season.
Crucial Week 9 Matchup Against Houston
The Chargers host the Houston Texans at SoFi Stadium in Week 9. CBS Sports Headlines reported that Houston’s defense has proven more vulnerable than in the previous season, having allowed three 30-point games and three 300-yard passers this year, compared to just one 30-point game and zero 300-yard passers in 2025.
Following the game against the Texans, the Chargers will have extra preparation time before visiting the Baltimore Ravens on Monday night in Week 10.
