Ladd McConkey showcased his skill as a versatile receiver, contributing significantly to the Los Angeles Chargers’ 26-8 victory over the New Orleans Saints. After primarily operating in the middle of the field during his initial NFL games, McConkey excelled with two touchdown receptions, including a notable 60-yard score in the third quarter. With six catches for 111 yards, he became the first Chargers rookie receiver to achieve a 100-yard game in over a decade.
Following the game, McConkey expressed his excitement, stating, “Any time you get in the end zone, it’s a big deal, so just glad I was able to contribute for the guys today.” His performance has made him a key target for quarterback Justin Herbert, especially as the Chargers adapt to the absence of veteran receivers like Keenan Allen and Mike Williams.
Herbert completed 20 of 32 passes for 279 yards and two touchdowns, helping the Chargers improve to 4-3 after a narrow defeat in their previous game. The Saints, meanwhile, fell to 2-6, marking their sixth consecutive loss and raising concerns for coach Dennis Allen, who is now under increased pressure with a record of 18-24 in his third season.
In the game, the Saints scored first with a safety and added two field goals from Blake Grupe, but struggled to find the end zone, failing to reach the red zone throughout the contest. Quarterback Spencer Rattler, starting in place of the injured Derek Carr, completed 12 of 24 passes for 156 yards before being replaced by Jake Haener in the second half.
McConkey’s standout moment came when he caught a pass from Herbert and made a crucial 35-yard run after reversing his field to extend the Chargers’ lead. Coach Jim Harbaugh praised McConkey’s catch and subsequent touchdown as a turning point for the team.
The Chargers’ defense was aided by a rare achievement from Scott Matlock, who became the first NFL player since 2019 to record both a reception and a sack in the same game.
In terms of injuries, the Saints faced several setbacks with various players leaving due to hamstring issues and a concussion evaluation, while the Chargers dealt with a hamstring aggravation for cornerback Kristian Fulton.
Both teams will look to regroup, with the Saints set to face the Carolina Panthers next Sunday, and the Chargers traveling to play against the Cleveland Browns.