The Chargers' defense pressured Hall of Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers, sacking him three times, including one for a safety, in a 25-10 win. Keenan Allen set a new franchise record with his 956th career reception during the game.
With just over two minutes remaining, and the game nearly decided, Allen approached Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh with a simple plan to break the franchise record held by Antonio Gates. Harbaugh communicated with offensive coordinator Greg Roman, who approved the play from the coaches’ booth.
“I was on the sideline and (Harbaugh) said, ‘We’re trying to get it to you,’” Allen recalled. “I said, ‘Hey, just run the speed sweep.’ It’s the easiest catch I get. They actually called me a genius. Like, ‘Why didn’t I think of that?’”
Quarterback Justin Herbert quickly passed to Allen on the right side for a 7-yard gain, securing Allen’s 956th career catch in front of 72,174 fans at SoFi Stadium, surpassing Antonio Gates’ previous franchise record.
Harbaugh said, “I thought it was a really good call. He wanted to do it in front of the home crowd and it was a great idea. We went with it and it was a great run, too. That was just tremendous.”
Author's summary: Keenan Allen's strategic request led to a record-breaking catch, highlighting the Chargers’ strong defense and leadership in their 25-10 win over the Steelers.