Who Should I Start? Justin Herbert or Tyler Shough

Saturday, January 11, 11:25 PM

Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert had the worst game of his career at a very inopportune time, losing 32-12 to the Texans in the first round of the playoffs. Herbert attempted 32 passes, completing just 14 for 242 yards, one touchdown, and four interceptions. He was also sacked four times, losing 31 yards. Herbert threw three interceptions all season. In 17 regular season games, he threw three interceptions. In one playoff game, he threw four. Herbert got no help from anyone besides Ladd McConkey, but it was still a rough performance from Herbert, who is still looking for his first playoff win.

Thursday, May 29, 2:57 PM

New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough, who is firmly in the battle for the QB1 job, had an "encouraging performance" during Thursday's OTA practice. "Shough showed it today," Saints reporter Nick Underhill wrote. "Hit two bombs for TDs, real nice layered throw going to the sideline and had an incomplete pass on the move that barely missed but athleticism flashed." The 25-year-old is likely the favorite to be the Week 1 starter in Kellen Moore's new offense after the sudden retirement of Derek Carr (shoulder), so the positive report is promising. Shough was a second-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft after tossing for 7,820 yards, 59 touchdowns, and 23 interceptions in 42 collegiate games with Oregon, Texas Tech, and Louisville. He also scored 11 career rushing touchdowns. Shough is no stranger to learning a new system on the fly, so he could exceed relatively low expectations in Year 1.