In 2020, the New England Patriots traveled to Los Angeles to play the Chargers and completely dominated them in a 45-0 victory, the most lopsided defeat in franchise history. Then-rookie quarterback Justin Herbert struggled mightily, going 26-of-53 for 209 yards, no touchdowns, and two interceptions.
You might think that Patriots head coach Bill Belichick didn’t think much of Herbert because of that. But as the two teams get ready to square off again, this time in SoFi Stadium, the New England coach has nothing but the highest of praise for the burgeoning quarterback star.
Bill Belichick on Justin Herbert:
"He's as good a Quarterback as I've seen come out here in quite a while, especially as he fits the pro game… I have a ton of respect for him, I think he's going to be one of the top Quarterbacks in the league for a long time to come.” pic.twitter.com/zlUFZQNbME
— Casey Baker – New Account (@_CaseyBaker) October 25, 2021
“He’s really good,” Belichick told reporters on Monday. “I thought he was outstanding [in college]. He just really had everything you’re looking for. He’s very athletic. Good arm. A lot of poise. Played well in Oregon. Just a number of big plays. All the passes. All the throws, but extended plays, scrambles, could run the read-zone and all that.