By most general metrics, the Los Angeles Chargers’ defense isn’t particularly daunting.
It ranks No. 24 overall in estimated points added per play and is relatively balanced against the pass (No. 23) and against the run (No. 20).
Brandon Staley’s defense, however, does two things really well: win third down and get after opposing quarterbacks.
Those two, of course, end up being related when teams are forced to throw the ball on third down.
The Chargers are tied for third in the NFL with 41 sacks. Even in recent weeks without star defensive end Nick Bosa (on injured reserve with a foot injury), they’ve been able to generate heat.