Cardinals Stun Chargers: Week 1’s Biggest NFL Upset

The Arizona Cardinals delivered the most surprising victory of NFL’s Week 1 by defeating the Los Angeles Chargers, led by Justin Herbert. The Cardinals’ unexpected win left fans and analysts talking, with former NFL quarterback Dan Orlovsky becoming a focal point due to his controversial opinions about Herbert.

Orlovsky appeared on ESPN 2’s “Unsportsmanlike” with hosts Evan Cohen, Chris Canty, and Michelle Smallmon, where Cohen questioned him, “Why do you love quarterbacks who haven’t done it versus those who have? Why do you love Herbert… why do you not love [Jalen] Hurts?” This discussion followed Jalen Hurts’ strong Week 1 performance against the Washington Commanders. Hurts, a previous Super Bowl champion, completed 14 of 25 passes for 203 yards, threw for three touchdowns, and added a rushing touchdown, securing a 24-22 victory.

Orlovsky previously doubted Hurts based on his college career, questioning the Eagles’ decision to replace Carson Wentz. However, he’s “removed any doubts” about Hurts due to his NFL performances.

He expressed his support for Herbert, citing his expectation of Herbert as an ideal quarterback prototype. Although Herbert has had impressive performances, his Week 1 showing was poor, which Orlovsky acknowledged, stating, “I’m a Hurts guy, now.”

Orlovsky’s support for Herbert was also evident on “The Pat McAfee Show,” where he favored the Chargers over the Chiefs in the AFC West. He predicted Herbert would be in the MVP conversation by Thanksgiving due to the Chargers’ offensive strength.

During Week 1, Herbert completed 17 of 27 passes for 209 yards, threw one touchdown, and intercepted once in the 26-14 defeat against the Cardinals. Arizona’s quarterback Jacoby Brissett passed for 277 yards and a touchdown, leading the team’s 393-yard offensive effort.

Despite Herbert’s acclaim as a top NFL quarterback, he has yet to win a postseason game, standing 0-3 in attempts. The Chargers aim to recover from their Week 1 loss when they host the Las Vegas Raiders on September 20 at 4:05 p.m. ET.