ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith Acknowledges Prior Doubts After Herbert Leads Chargers to Victory over Chiefs
Kansas City, MO – ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith publicly conceded he underestimated Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert following the Chargers’ impressive 27-24 Week 1 victory against the Kansas City Chiefs on Thursday night.Smith, known for his outspoken opinions, had previously expressed skepticism about Herbert’s ability to consistently perform at an elite level.
The reversal comes after Herbert delivered a stellar performance, completing 30 of 38 passes for 333 yards and three touchdowns, leading the Chargers to a statement win on the road. Smith’s initial doubts centered on Herbert’s lack of playoff success, a narrative the quarterback is actively attempting to rewrite. Herbert has demonstrated remarkable resilience throughout his career, orchestrating 14 fourth-quarter comebacks and 16 game-winning drives.
Smith’s acknowledgement highlights the ongoing debate surrounding Herbert’s place among the NFL’s top quarterbacks. While consistently showcasing impressive statistics and clutch performances, Herbert has yet to secure a playoff victory-a critical benchmark for establishing true quarterback greatness. This win against the reigning Super Bowl champions, however, substantially elevates his profile and forces a reevaluation of his capabilities. The Chargers’ success this season hinges on Herbert’s continued development and ability to translate regular-season dominance into postseason wins.
