Chargers' Herbert and starters chasing reps in preseason run

Quarterback and team approach Rams game head-on to prepare for regular-season start.

- BY ANTHONY DE LEON

QUARTERBACK Justin Herbert wants the "true feeling" of a live pass rush in his preseason debut Saturday.

When the Chargers and Rams canceled their joint practice this week, it seemed the Chargers' starters would miss a chance at live, competitive reps against an opposing team.

Expectations were that the Chargers would not play their starters against the Rams at SoFi Stadium on Saturday — a move aligned with coach Jim Harbaugh's “abundance of caution” approach.

But in a surprising twist, and despite a banged-up roster, Harbaugh announced Thursday that nearly all expected starters will take the field — except Derwin James and Khalil Mack — saying, “The guys want to play.”

Here are five things to watch for when the Chargers face the Rams on Saturday:

Herbert wants to face a pass rush

Justin Herbert will make his preseason debut, leading the offensive starters for “a series or two,” according to Harbaugh.

Ever the competitor, Herbert felt it was important to face a live pass rush and get a feel for the ball coming out of his hand before the regular season.