Kevin O’Connell explains his choice to keep injured Carson Wentz in during the recent loss

Chargers’ Victory Over Vikings Raises Questions About Wentz’s Playing Time

The Los Angeles Chargers had a commanding win against the Minnesota Vikings, with a score of 37-10, leaving the Vikings at a disappointing 3-4 record. However, the focus after the game wasn’t just on the score; it shifted to head coach Kevin O’Connell’s choice to keep quarterback Carson Wentz on the field throughout the mismatch.

Wentz appeared to be in discomfort due to issues with his non-throwing shoulder. He was sacked five times during the game, which likely intensified the pain he was already experiencing. Given the score and his apparent struggles, many questioned whether it was wise to keep the veteran quarterback in the game.

Wentz was seen grimacing at various points, which added to the concerns surrounding his health.

In his postgame comments, O’Connell explained the rationale behind his decision to let Wentz play for most of the game. “We kept checking in with Carson,” O’Connell shared with reporters. He noted that he’d asked Wentz multiple times how he felt, and Wentz insisted he was okay and wanted to continue. O’Connell did mention that Wentz was definitely in pain but felt capable of playing.

Adding to the complexity of the situation was the absence of JJ McCarthy, who was inactive due to an ankle injury. McCarthy had started the first two games this season but has since been sidelined.

O’Connell expressed optimism that McCarthy could return to the starting role by Week 9 against the Detroit Lions, pending a full recovery, as reported by NFL Network.

During the game, Wentz was visibly frustrated, even slamming his helmet against the sideline. However, he later stated that the injury didn’t hinder his ability to perform. “I don’t think so. Honestly, that gave me confidence,” he mentioned. He felt capable of executing his job well enough to make the throws needed, emphasizing that his left shoulder wasn’t heavily depended on for throwing.

Backup quarterback Max Brosmer did see some action, completing three out of four pass attempts in the fourth quarter. O’Connell acknowledged that he did think about switching to a rookie quarterback earlier in the game but chose to stick with Wentz, believing it was a tough situation to throw a rookie into without the necessary experience.