Jim Harbaugh praised for unlocking 'dumb, brutish' Justin Herbert traits

Harbaugh’s enthusiasm for his star QB is undeniable, and it’s bringing a whole new energy to the Chargers this season.

Kilty Cleary | Nov 13, 2024

Barry Reeger-Imagn Images / Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

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Los Angeles Chargers

Harbaugh and Herbert, a bromance that can't be stopped.

Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh is thriving in his return to the NFL, bringing a level of game-day energy that's impossible for fans to miss. Whether he’s catching warm-up passes from Justin Herbert or cheering on his quarterback with his unique brand of enthusiasm, Harbaugh’s quirky spirit is becoming an integral part of the Chargers' culture and vibe.

And, it turns out, his "weirdness" might be the spark that's helping unlock a whole new side of Herbert, one that’s all about having fun, keeping things loose, and embracing that rough, backyard-football energy.

There is something happening where Jim Harbaugh's weirdness is unlocking the dumb, brutish aspects of Justin Herbert's personality, and it's an absolute game changer. https://t.co/rfCGyfrO9D
— Robert Mays (@robertmays) November 12, 2024

Early in the season, there were moments when their dynamic seemed, well, a little awkward. But fast-forward a few games, and now they have their pregame ritual down to a science. Harbaugh knows exactly how to hit Herbert’s pads just before the game kicks off, and it’s as if that pad slap is the magic button to engage Herbert’s competitive fire. You can practically feel the chemistry between these two; it’s a bromance born of football passion, and it’s getting stronger each week.

It’s a bit like watching two friends throw the ball around in the backyard, except these two are on an NFL field. This connection between Harbaugh and Herbert doesn’t just make for fun moments on the sidelines; it’s translating to a cohesive, high-energy team that’s getting into rhythm at just the right time. If they keep this camaraderie up, watch out, these Chargers could be downright unstoppable as the season heats up down the stretch.

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