J.K. Dobbins delivered a spectacular one-yard airborne touchdown, capping off a dramatic drive for the Los Angeles Chargers against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday night. The score, a result of a gutsy fourth-down call by coach Jim Harbaugh, extended the Chargers’ lead to 21-6 in the second quarter. This key play highlighted the team’s offensive power and fearless strategy, putting them in a dominant position at SoFi Stadium.
Herbert’s Legs and Arm Set the Stage
The scoring drive didn’t start at the goal line. It was ignited by the dynamic play of quarterback Justin Herbert, who once again proved he is a true dual-threat in the league.
Facing pressure, Herbert broke free for a stunning 30-yard scramble that flipped the field and put the Chargers deep into Bengals territory. The run energized the home crowd and showcased the kind of improvisational skill that makes him so dangerous.
He wasn’t done. A few plays later, Herbert connected with receiver Derius Davis on a sharp, accurate pass that moved the chains and positioned the Chargers inside the red zone, ready to strike.
A Gutsy Fourth-Down Call from Harbaugh
Once near the end zone, the Chargers shifted to a ground-and-pound attack. Coach Jim Harbaugh called five run plays in the next seven snaps, with Gus Edwards and Hassan Haskins hammering away at the Bengals’ defensive front.
However, the Bengals’ defense stiffened at the goal line. They stuffed two consecutive runs by Haskins, bringing up a tense fourth-and-goal from the one-yard line. Many coaches would have taken the easy three points from a field goal.
Instead, Harbaugh showed immense faith in his offense by keeping them on the field. The decision was a clear message: the Chargers were there to dominate and score touchdowns, not settle for field goals.
Dobbins Soars Over the Pile for Six
With the game on the line for that drive, the ball went to J.K. Dobbins. He took the handoff and, seeing the line of scrimmage jammed with players, made an incredible athletic play.
Dobbins leaped over the pile of linemen, extending the ball with full effort to break the plane of the end zone. The officials signaled a touchdown, confirming his successful flight. It was a moment of pure determination that sealed the drive.
This marked Dobbins’ seventh touchdown of the season, cementing his role as the team’s primary goal-line threat. The drive’s key moments are a perfect example of the team’s execution.
| Player | Play | Result |
| Justin Herbert | Scramble | 30-yard gain |
| Hassan Haskins | Run Attempts | Stopped short of goal line |
| J.K. Dobbins | 1-yard run | Airborne Touchdown |
Chargers’ Offensive Balance on Full Display
The successful touchdown drive was a masterclass in offensive balance and coaching philosophy. It showcased several key strengths that have defined the Chargers this season.
The team demonstrated an ability to hurt a defense in multiple ways, keeping the Bengals off-balance from the start of the drive to its climactic end. This versatility is a major reason for their success.
- Quarterback Mobility: Herbert’s scrambling ability created a big play out of nothing.
- Power Running Game: A committee of running backs was used to wear down the defensive line.
- Aggressive Play-Calling: Harbaugh’s confidence to go for it on fourth down paid off completely.
This combination of talent and strategy has the Chargers looking like a formidable opponent as they push toward the playoffs. For the Bengals, it’s back to the drawing board on how to stop such a multifaceted attack in critical situations.
