“Same look in his eye,” Staley said. “Same amount of words. He’s just really serious. Really easy to talk to. All ball. Total focus. He has the composure of a much (older person). He was only 20 when we first met him. … He means business. He’s a great kid. … That’s how he came off.”

Tuipulotu, now 21, isn’t the same player he was upon leaving USC for the draft. How could he be? No question, he was a standout with the Trojans, named a consensus All-America and the Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year after finishing third in the country with 12½ sacks.

But the speed and the experience and the general excellence of NFL players has brought out the best in Tuipulotu, and he’s met or exceeded expectations so far. He’s had four sacks, including two in the Chargers’ victory over the New York Jets on Monday night, and 20 solo tackles in eight games.

Success, such as it has been in his burgeoning career, hasn’t altered Tuipulotu in the least. He remains shy in many ways, reserved, willing to defer to older, more experienced and more accomplished teammates such as fellow pass rushers Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack, two multiple Pro Bowl selections.

During spring practices and training camp, Tuipulotu addressed Bosa and Mack as “Sir,” although Bosa and Mack each say he’s stopped the practice. He even has nicknames for Bosa, 28, and Mack, 32. Tuipulotu calls Bosa “Joey B” or “Joey Beeskie.” Mack is “K-Mack” or simply “K.”

Tuipulotu even says “Hi” to quarterback Justin Herbert when he passes him in the hallway, drawing laughter from reporters at the retelling, but he also admitted, “I’m still kind of scared to talk to Justin. I don’t know. It’s just ‘J-Herbo.’ I’m weird like that. It took me a while to talk to ‘K’ and Joey. I’m just weird.”

It’s all about giving proper respect, Tuipulotu said.

“Tuli is a funny guy,” Mack said. “Some of the stuff he says, I’m shocked by it just as much as y’all. He was a little quiet coming in, sitting by himself, but he’s become more comfortable with us. It just speaks to the group we have, a lot of guys that you could say are high-level players and stars on the football field, but we’re all brothers when it comes to the locker room.”

At first, Tuipulotu sat in the corner at weekly dinners arranged and hosted by Mack for the Chargers’ defensive unit. He came out of his shell and gradually joined the conversation, although he acknowledged that Mack and defensive linemen Morgan Fox and Nick Williams are “the life of the dinner.”

“They’re always having fun,” Tuipulotu said.

The dinners have accomplished something else, too.

“Camaraderie,” Tuipulotu said. “It builds a lot of relationships. I’ve talked to a lot of people that I wouldn’t normally, just because I’m not in their room and I’m not really good at talking to people like that. It’s a great thing, building connections. I’m grateful for ‘K-Mack’ for having those team dinners weekly. It’s great for us, for sure.”

Tuipulotu’s play has given others something to talk about, too. It would be one thing if he was a shy, reserved person who accomplished little of note on the practice field or during games, but he’s been an excellent depth player behind Bosa and Mack, giving the Chargers an effective pass rush.

For instance, the Chargers sacked Jets quarterback Zach Wilson eight times, forcing him to fumble twice during a 27-6 victory that was sparked by their defense. Bosa had 2½ sacks, Mack and Tuipulotu each had two sacks, safety Dean Marlowe had one and Fox had a half sack.

It’s on the field that Tuipulotu reveals a different side of himself, a part rooted in his family’s ancestral home on the South Pacific island of Tonga.

“I just scream, ‘Tongans,’ a lot,” Tuipulotu said of his reaction after sacking a quarterback. “That’s my culture. I scream it a lot. I think, after the sacks (Monday), I kept screaming, ‘Tongans, Tongans, Tongans.’ When I’m on the field, I’m a whole different person, for sure. I kind of just turn the switch on.

“Outside of it, I’m kind of like this.”

Reserved. Relaxed. Respectful.

“Games like that can be frustrating,” he said.

The Chargers (4-4) barely moved the ball down the field against New York’s impressive defense, generating a season-low total of 191 net yards. Their touchdown scoring drives were short and sweet, one covering 50 yards and another of 2 yards, each capped by short runs by Austin Ekeler.

Two drives that resulted in field goals by Cameron Dicker were impressive but for different reasons. The first covered just 21 yards, but it was during a two-minute drill and set up Dicker for a 55-yard field goal on the final play of the first half. The second covered 68 yards in 16 plays, setting up Dicker’s 38-yard field goal.

“That’s a pretty good defense,” Herbert said of the Jets, who sacked him five times and pressured him from beginning to end. “We would have loved to have moved the ball better, to score a bunch of points. It didn’t go our way. But for us, it was important to stay together, stick together.”

In hindsight, Herbert might not have been content to jog to the sideline as the Chargers’ punt team took the field eight times, but he was pleased their offense didn’t turn over the ball on an interception or a fumble. Herbert didn’t throw an interception for the second consecutive game.

The only turnover the Chargers have had in the past two games was Ekeler’s fumble during their 30-13 victory over the Chicago Bears on Oct. 29, which set up a rather meaningless fourth-quarter touchdown. The Chargers didn’t force a turnover against the Bears but they recovered three Jets fumbles.

Overall, the Chargers have won the turnover battle 15-6 this season.

“As long as we’re not turning the ball over and we’re doing the best to score in the red zone and to create explosives (plays for big gains), that’s all you can ask for,” Herbert said of playing safe and sane against a defense that handed the NFL-leading Philadelphia Eagles their only loss of the season.

Patience is another key to playing against a formidable opponent. Not every game will result in 300 yards passing (or more) and three touchdowns (or more) with no turnovers. The object of the game is to find a way to win when matters are difficult and the opposition’s strengths are just a little bit stronger.

“It’s great that we have such a great supporting cast around us, coaching us,” Herbert said of offensive coordinator Kellen Moore and backup quarterbacks Easton Stick and Max Duggan. “They’ve done a great job on the sideline, just talking with us about exactly what we’re seeing, talking about the upcoming drive. To have those guys on the sideline, being able to communicate with them, I think that’s really helpful.”

STATUS REPORT

Coach Brandon Staley referred to the Chargers’ offense as “a work in progress, just like we are on defense and on special teams.” He also said of the offense, “I think that this group is still figuring it out together, but I like the group that we are coaching, and I like the way this group’s competing.”

DAVIS HONORED

Derius Davis, a rookie wide receiver, was named the AFC’s special teams player of the week after returning a punt 87 yards for a touchdown against the Jets. It was the longest punt return for a touchdown in the NFL this season, the fifth-longest in Chargers history and the first by any NFL rookie since 2017.

GETTING DEFENSIVE

The Chargers (4-4) held the Jets to two field goals after holding the Chicago Bears to 13 points during a 30-13 victory on Oct. 29 after limiting the Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs to only a touchdown in the second half of a 31-17 loss on Oct. 22. That’s only 26 points given up over the past 10 quarters.

To be sure, no one is going to confuse either the Jets (4-4) or the Bears (2-7) for Super Bowl contenders, but the Chargers’ defense has been on an impressive run lately. They’ve sacked quarterbacks the past two games, stuffed the opposition’s running game and limited big gains to only a handful.

Specifically, the play of outside linebackers Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack has been everything the Chargers anticipated when they acquired Mack from the Bears during the 2022 offseason. Bosa and Mack have become a forceful pass-rushing tandem, capably backed up by Chris Rumph II and Tuli Tuipulotu.

“The thing that Tuli, Joey and Khalil and Rumph have done a great job of is defending the edge in the run game,” Chargers coach Brandon Staley said. “We have really, really played the edge position the way it needs to be played, and it’s been a big factor in our run defense.”

The Jets gained 64 yards on 20 carries, an average of 3.2 yards per attempt.

The Bears gained 73 yards on 25 carries, an average of 2.9 yards.

Last season, the Chargers gave up 5.4 yards per carry, the worst mark in the NFL.

Of the key elements of the Chargers’ defense, none might be more important than the fact that they are healthy at so many significant positions, but especially along the defensive line and among their pass-rushers. Last season, they were battered, bruised and bloodied throughout their defense.

Now, they’re healthy and clicking.

“Bingo,” Staley said.

ALLEN APPRECIATION

Wide receiver Keenan Allen topped 10,000 yards receiving for his career when he caught eight passes for 77 yards in the Chargers’ victory over the Jets. Only former tight end Antonio Gates has had more yards in a career with the Chargers than Allen, with 11,841 yards between 2003 and 2018.

Staley is not one to take Allen for granted or fail to be amazed by him.

“I think from afar, before I even got here, I was just such a big fan,” Staley said. “I think every coach is, but then every year I’ve been here I’ve had a great appreciation for how special he is. He’s got a really unique skill set. He’s so dedicated to his craft. I think offensive and defensive coaches know his ability to separate and set people up and how he understands leverage and how he understands coverages.

“He’s a lot bigger than people think. He’s 6-(foot-)3. He can do everything. He can play everywhere. He’s a clutch player. He’s a competitor. He’s a dog. I’m just so happy for him. To be a part of history, I think all of us know why he made history because everyone who’s been with him sees what he does on a day-to-day basis. He’s the ultimate standard of consistency.”

Staley recalled how, in his role as the overseer of the defense, he attempted to defend Allen during training camp, but then ditched his game plan and still failed to cover him adequately. Staley tried double-teams. He tried everything he could think of before “abandoning the mission.”

“It’s a testament to him,” Staley said.

WELCOME BACK

Wide receiver Jalen Guyton and defensive lineman Otito Ogbonnia made their season debuts after beginning the season on the physically unable to perform list because of season-ending knee injuries suffered in 2022. They were activated for the first time after several weeks of practice.

Guyton was on the field for 33 of 58 offensive snaps, but didn’t catch a pass on two targets from quarterback Justin Herbert, who threw for a career-low 136 yards. Ogbonnia played 37 of 81 defensive snaps plus two more on special teams. He combined on three tackles, including one solo.

WHAT COMES NEXT

The Chargers have a short week to rest, recover and prepare before facing the NFC North-leading Detroit Lions (6-2) on Sunday at SoFi Stadium. The Lions, coming off their bye week, have won four of five. Only the Philadelphia Eagles (8-1), Baltimore Ravens (7-2) and Chiefs (7-2) have better records.

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  Chargers safety Alohi Gilman (32) celebrates with teammates after recovering a fumble and returning it to the New York Jets’ 2-yard line during the fourth quarter on Monday night in East Rutherford, N.J. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

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  Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert passes against the New York Jets during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

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  Chargers wide receiver Derius Davis runs back a punt return for a touchdown against the New York Jets during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

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  Chargers wide receiver Derius Davis runs back a punt return for a touchdown against the New York Jets during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

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  Chargers wide receiver Derius Davis, left, celebrates with teammates after scoring a touchdown against the New York Jets during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

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  The Chargers’ Derius Davis (12) celebrates on the sideline after returning a punt for a touchdown during the first quarter against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium on November 06, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images)

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  New York Jets quarterback Zach Wilson passes against the Chargers during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

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  Chargers defensive lineman Sebastian Joseph-Day (51) celebrates after tackling New York Jets running back Breece Hall during the first half at MetLife Stadium on November 06, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images)

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  New York Jets wide receiver Garrett Wilson (17) tries to avoid a tackle by Chargers safety Alohi Gilman (32) during the first quarter an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

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  Chargers safety Derwin James Jr. (3) slides out of bounds after recovering a fumble by New York Jets wide receiver Garrett Wilson (17) during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

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  Chargers safety Derwin James Jr. (3) celebrates with teammates after recovering a fumble by the New York Jets during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

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  Chargers safety Derwin James Jr. (3) celebrates with teammates after recovering a fumble by the New York Jets during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

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  Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert, center, huddles with teammates during the first half against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium on November 06, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

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  Chargers running back Austin Ekeler tries to avoid a tackle by New York Jets safety Jordan Whitehead (3) during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

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  Chargers running back Austin Ekeler carries the ball against New York Jets cornerback D.J. Reed (4) during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

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  Chargers wide receiver Keenan Allen carries the ball against the New York Jets during the first quarter an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

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  Chargers running back Austin Ekeler is tackled short of the goal line by D.J. Reed of the New York Jets during the first half at MetLife Stadium on November 06, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

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  Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert hands off the ball to running back Austin Ekeler during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

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  Chargers running back Austin Ekeler crosses the goal line for a touchdown against the New York Jets during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

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  Chargers running back Austin Ekeler (30) reacts after scoring a touchdown against the New York Jets during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

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  Chargers running back Joshua Kelley (25) carries the ball against New York Jets safety Jordan Whitehead (3) during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

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  Chargers running back Joshua Kelley (25) leaps over New York Jets safety Jordan Whitehead (3) on a carry during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

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  New York Jets running back Breece Hall (20) carries the ball against Chargers safety Dean Marlowe (20) during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

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  New York Jets defensive lineman John Franklin-Myers, right, sacks Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert during the second quarter at MetLife Stadium on November 06, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images)

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  Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (10) stiff-arms New York Jets defensive end John Franklin-Myers (91) during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

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  New York Jets quarterback Zach Wilson (2) is sacked by Chargers linebacker Tuli Tuipulotu (45) during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

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  Chargers edge rusher Joey Bosa, right, recovers a fumble during the first quarter of their game against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium on November 06, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images)

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  Chargers edge rusher Joey Bosa recovers a fumble during the first quarter of their game against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium on November 06, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images)

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  New York Jets linebacker Chazz Surratt (55) tackles Chargers running back Austin Ekeler (30) during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

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  Chargers running back Austin Ekeler (30) is tackled by the New York Jets during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

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  Chargers linebacker Joey Bosa (97) strips the ball from New York Jets quarterback Zach Wilson (2) during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

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  New York Jets linebacker C.J. Mosley (57) leaps over Chargers running back Austin Ekeler (30) as he is tackled by New York Jets cornerback Michael Carter II (30) during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

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  Chargers linebacker Tuli Tuipulotu (45) gets a hand on New York Jets quarterback Zach Wilson (2) during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

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  Chargers linebacker Tuli Tuipulotu sacks Zach Wilson of the New York Jets during the second quarter at MetLife Stadium on November 06, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

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  Chargers linebacker Tuli Tuipulotu celebrates after sacking Zach Wilson of the New York Jets during the second quarter at MetLife Stadium on November 06, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images)

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  Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert throws a pass during the second half against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium on November 06, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images)

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  Chargers cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. (26) tackles New York Jets tight end C.J. Uzomah (87) during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

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  New York Jets wide receiver Garrett Wilson (17) is tackled by Chargers linebacker Kenneth Murray Jr. (9) and cornerback Michael Davis (43) during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

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  New York Jets quarterback Zach Wilson, left, scrambles against Chargers linebacker Khalil Mack during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

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  New York Jets cornerback Sauce Gardner reacts during the third quarter of an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Chargers, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

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  Chargers safety Derwin James Jr. (3) commits pass interference against New York Jets tight end Tyler Conklin (83) during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

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  Chargers linebacker Khalil Mack, right, puts pressure on New York Jets quarterback Zach Wilson during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

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  Chargers linebacker Joey Bosa (97) reacts with Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Eric Kendricks (6) during the third quarter of an NFL football game against the New York Jets, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

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  Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert scrambles away from New York Jets defensive tackle Quinnen Williams (95) during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

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  Chargers edge rusher Tuli Tuipulotu sacks New York Jets quarterback Zach Wilson during the fourth quarter on Monday night in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Chargers had eight sacks and recovered three fumbles in their 27-6 win. (Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images)

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  Chargers linebacker Tuli Tuipulotu (45) sacks New York Jets quarterback Zach Wilson (2) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

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  A Chargers fan reacts during the game between the Chargers and the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium on November 06, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

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  Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert throws a pass during the second half against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium on November 06, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images)

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  Chargers linebacker Tuli Tuipulotu (45) reacts after sacking New York Jets quarterback Zach Wilson (2) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

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  Chargers linebacker Tuli Tuipulotu reacts after sacking New York Jets quarterback Zach Wilson (2) during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

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  New York Jets quarterback Zach Wilson (2) scrambles away from Chargers linebacker Tuli Tuipulotu (45) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

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  The Chargers’ Michael Davis, right, tries to tackle New York Jets wide receiver Garrett Wilson during the second half at MetLife Stadium on November 06, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

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  Head coach Robert Saleh of the New York Jets reacts during the fourth quarter against the Los Angeles Chargers at MetLife Stadium on November 06, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

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  Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (10) huddles with teammates during the second half against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium on November 06, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

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  Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert passes against the New York Jets during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

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  Chargers wide receiver Keenan Allen catches a pass with one hand during the fourth quarter against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium on November 06, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

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  Chargers safety Alohi Gilman (32) reacts after recovering a fumble and returning it to the New York Jets’ 2-yard line during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

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  A Chargers fan reacts during the game between the Chargers and the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium on November 06, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

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  The Chargers react after defeating the New York Jets in an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

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  Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert, left, greets New York Jets quarterback Zach Wilson after the Chargers defeated the Jets, 27-6, on Monday night in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images)

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  New York Jets quarterback Zach Wilson (2) greets Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (10) after playing in an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

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  Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert signs autographs after defeating the New York Jets 27-6 at MetLife Stadium on November 06, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images)

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  Chargers wide receiver Keenan Allen (13) greets fans after playing against the New York Jets in an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

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  A Chargers fan reacts during the game between the Los Angeles Chargers and the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium on November 06, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

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  Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (10) signs autographs for fans after playing against the New York Jets in an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

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  Chargers fans react during the game between the Chargers and the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium on November 06, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

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  Chargers fans cheer during the game between the Los Angeles Chargers and the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium on November 06, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

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  Chargers head coach Brandon Staley, answers questions during a news conference after an NFL football game against the New York Jets, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

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  Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert answers questions during a news conference after playing against the New York Jets in an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

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  Chargers wide receiver Keenan Allen warms up before the game against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium on November 06, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images)

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  A Chargers fan looks on before the game between the Chargers and the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium on November 06, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

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  Injured New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers walks on the field before a game between the New York Jets and the Chargers , Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

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  A New York Jets fan looks on during the game between the Chargers and the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium on November 06, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — The postgame music boomed through the Chargers’ locker room after they routed the New York Jets, 27-6, on Monday night. They sang and danced in celebration of returning to the .500 mark with a suffocating defensive showing that tormented the Jets from beginning to end.

In the final minutes, fans clad in the Chargers’ powder blue colors had appeared from all corners of MetLife Stadium, gathering en masse near the tunnel leading to the visitors’ locker room. “De-fense, de-fense, de-fense,” they bellowed as the Chargers turned away the Jets one final time.

“We always want to be the people who set the tone early and be aggressive, and that’s kind of what we’ve tried to do these last couple of games,” Chargers safety Alohi Gilman said. “It’s something that’s been working for us, and having them (opponents) playing on our terms is what we’ve been going for.”

It was a grind, a 60-minute slog, the sort of game the Chargers hadn’t played this season. Yards were a precious commodity for both teams, but especially for the Chargers, so accustomed to moving with ease down the field, with quarterback Justin Herbert serving as their tour guide.

Herbert’s usual connections were well-covered by the Jets, whose pressure on him forced him into a career-low 136 yards on 16-for-30 passing with zero touchdowns and zero interceptions. Keenan Allen caught half of Herbert’s passes for 77 yards, topping 10,000 yards receiving for his career.

Only tight end Antonio Gates, with 11,841 yards, had more in Chargers history.

Allen topped the 10K mark with a twisting, turning catch along the sideline that produced the Chargers’ largest offensive gain of the game, a reception Allen would later say was “fire.” He said he hadn’t watched the video of it, but suffice it to say it led to the second of Cameron Dicker’s two field goals.

“I mean, it’s been 11 years,” said Allen, who has spent his entire career with the Chargers. “Once you can stack up the years, and all the coaches I’ve always had said to stack ‘em up, stack up your seasons, stack up your games. Once you do that, the numbers start to accumulate and records start to get broken.”

In the end, though, the Chargers’ second consecutive victory was more about defense than offense. They sacked Wilson eight times, forced him to fumble twice and limited the Jets to two field goals before a defensive stand in the red zone in the final moments made it sound as if SoFi Stadium had moved east.

The Jets (4-4) outgained the Chargers (4-4) by 270-191, but managed only 64 yards on the ground. Safety Derwin James Jr. led the Chargers with 10 tackles, including seven solo. Gilman forced one fumble and returned another 48 yards to set up the second of Austin Ekeler’s two touchdown runs.

Outside linebackers Joey Bosa, Khalil Mack and Tuli Tuipulotu tormented Wilson. Bosa was credited with 2½ sacks and also forced a fumble that would set up the first of Ekeler’s touchdowns. Mack and Tuipuloto each had two sacks. Safety Dean Marlowe had one and defensive lineman Morgan Fox had a half-sack.

“It (ticked) us off, it (ticked) us off, because we heard how good they were all week, all week,” James said of the narrative that the Jets’ defense was superior to the Chargers’ defense. “We wanted to hold our own and show that we have a great defense, too. (Monday) was a step toward that, for sure.”

The Chargers forced two turnovers and scored two touchdowns and seized a 14-0 lead by the end of the first quarter, feeding off a pregame energy that was evident during the warmups. James ran around slapping hands with his teammates and coaches and gave Herbert a playful shove.

Herbert shoved him back playfully.

“I ain’t do nothing,” James said, underrating his value as a motivator.

The Chargers then went three-and-out on their first possession, a dubious beginning that was quickly forgotten after rookie Derius Davis weaved his way through traffic for an 87-yard punt return for a touchdown with 13:15 left in the first quarter. It was the longest in the NFL this season.

“It was big, it was big,” James said of the jolt Davis’ touchdown gave the Chargers in the early minutes of the game, the only score they would need to win. “When we’re connected on special teams to offense and defense, that’s the type of performance we’re capable of going and doing.”

Follow along for live updates from Chargers reporter Elliott Teaford before, during and after the Chargers’ game against the New York Jets (5:15 p.m., ABC, ESPN).

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Chargers’ defense shooting for a repeat performance vs. Jets https://t.co/p9myQcbH6p

— O.C. Register (@ocregister) November 5, 2023

Definitely.

Maybe.

No question, the Chargers might have found something that clicked defensively. They haven’t given up much in the past six quarters, which includes their victory over the Bears plus the second half of their loss to the Kansas City Chiefs two weeks ago. They’ve given up 20 points over six quarters.

Total.

The Bears scored two touchdowns in the Chargers’ 30-13 victory, and their rookie quarterback Tyson Bagent was under constant pressure from a group of four outside linebackers, including veterans Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack. Chris Rumph II and rookie Tuli Tuipulotu provided additional depth.

“You look at it day-by-day,” safety Derwin James Jr. said. “It started in practice, and we got better from that. Last week, we got a ‘W’ and started 1-0. This week, we’re trying to do the same thing coming against the Jets. We’re taking it practice-by-practice, game-by-game and we’ll look up at the end of this thing.”

Monday, the Chargers will face another young quarterback when they meet Zach Wilson of the Jets. Wilson became the starter when future Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers suffered a season-ending Achilles tendon injury on the fourth play of New York’s season-opening game.

So far, the Chargers are 2-0 against inexperienced quarterbacks, having beaten Bagent and the Bears and Aidan O’Connell and the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 4. In fact, Mack set a Chargers record by sacking O’Connell six times in a rather impressive 24-17 victory back on Oct. 1.

Much has changed since the Chargers’ victory over the Raiders. For starters, they lost their next two games, inviting plenty of doubts about their status as a playoff contender after losses to the Dallas Cowboys and the Chiefs. But they rebounded smartly against the Bears.

Plus, Bosa has rounded into form after suffering hamstring and toe injuries that limited his mobility and effectiveness. A fracture of his left big toe, suffered when it was accidentally stepped on during the Chargers’ victory in Week 3 over the Minnesota Vikings, was especially debilitating.

“Pretty worn down today because I was actually able to push it the last few days,” Bosa said after the Chargers’ practice Saturday. “I was able to get some extra sprinting in and kind of get back to the routine that I like to stay on during the season. Lifts are going well. Practice is going well.”

A healthy Bosa is a happy Bosa.

In fact, lightening the mood did the Chargers wonders leading up to the game against the Bears. Nothing changed in the run-up to Monday night’s game against the Jets at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Chargers were positively buoyant during the past week of practice.

“At this level, it is a game, but it’s also their job and their profession,” Chargers defensive coordinator Derrick Ansley said. “There’s a fine line, but at the end of the day, it is a game, and you have to approach it that way. There are no perfect players, no perfect coaches, no perfect schemes. You just have to make sure that you don’t ride the wave, and continue to keep the main thing the main thing and feed off each other.

“That’s the beauty of football. You have 11 guys out there and all 11 guys may not have the same energy, but maybe there may be that one that sparks and that may get us all energized. That’s the beauty of football.”

The Chargers are expected to get an additional boost when they play the Jets.

Wide receiver Jalen Guyton and defensive lineman Otito Ogbonnia were activated Sunday from the PUP list and could make their season debuts Monday night. They each suffered season-ending knee injuries in 2022 and missed all of training camp plus the season’s first seven games.

On the other hand, the Chargers placed wide receiver Joshua Palmer on injured reserve because of a knee injury. Palmer, the Chargers’ second-leading receiver with 23 catches for 377 yards (an average of 16.4 yards) and one touchdown in seven games, will be sidelined for at least the next four games.

When: Monday, 5:15 p.m.

Where: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, N.J.

TV/Radio: Ch. 7, ESPN; 98.7 FM; 105.5 FM/94.3 FM (Spanish)

Line: Chargers by 3½ points

Notable injury designations: Chargers: OUT: WR Joshua Palmer (knee). QUESTIONABLE: DL Morgan Fox (oblique), WR Jalen Guyton (knee), DL Sebastian Joseph-Day (illness), LB Eric Kendricks (ribs), LB Kenneth Murray Jr. (shoulder), DL Otito Ogbonnia (knee).

Jets: OUT: OL Duane Brown (hip), LB Chazz Surratt (ankle). QUESTIONABLE: DB Adrian Amos (ankle), WR Allen Lazard (knee).

What’s at stake: A victory over the Jets would move the Chargers back to .500 and give them some much-needed confidence and momentum heading into the heart of their schedule. As of today, the Chargers play five teams with winning records and five with losing records in their final 10 games. The Chargers need to win seven of their final 10 in order to match last season’s 10-7 record. Anything less would put their AFC playoff chances in serious jeopardy.

Who’s better: The Chargers face a second consecutive opponent playing a backup quarterback. Zach Wilson took over when Aaron Rodgers suffered a season-ending Achilles tendon injury on New York’s first possession of the season and his first drive after signing with the Jets after a Hall of Fame-caliber career with the Green Bay Packers. The Jets don’t score many points, averaging 18 points per game, but they don’t give up many, either, giving up 18.4. The Chargers have averaged 24.9 points scored and 24 points given up.

Matchup to watch: Even more than other games for the Chargers, this could be a contest determined by the battle in the trenches. The Chargers’ ground game hasn’t exactly ground to a halt, but it hasn’t been as effective as when they rushed for 233 yards and three touchdowns in 40 attempts in their season-opening loss Sept. 10 against the Miami Dolphins. They had 54 yards and zero touchdowns in 25 attempts in last Sunday night’s victory over the Chicago Bears.

Chargers win if: Failing to combine an effective run with an effective passing game didn’t hurt the Chargers during their 30-13 victory over the Bears, but it would be a big help against the Jets if they were able to at least grind out a few more yards on the ground. Running back Austin Ekeler appeared to be back to his familiar productive self last week against the Bears after sitting out three games and looking like less of a threat in two others. He is a key to much of what the Chargers attempt to do on the ground and through the air. He caught seven passes for 94 yards and one touchdown against Chicago, but rushed for only 29 yards on 15 carries.

Prediction: The oddsmakers were right last week to make the Chargers eight-point favorites over the Bears. They favor the Chargers by 3 ½ points over the Jets this week, which seems about right, too, if Justin Herbert and the offense can overcome New York’s stingy defense. Chargers 21, Jets 17.

A lack of an effective running game was a theme that ran through the 2022 season and ended up costing Lombardi his job after the Chargers’ second-half collapse against the Jaguars. A sound running game likely would have enabled the Chargers to grind out the second half and keep the Jaguars off the field.

So, exit Lombardi and enter Kellen Moore.

Trouble is, the Chargers’ ground game is still stuck in the mud.

The Chargers have averaged 3.9 yards per attempt (725 yards on 187 carries), ranking in the bottom half of the 32-team NFL going into Week 9.

True, they rushed for 233 yards and three touchdowns on 40 attempts during their season-opening 36-34 loss to the Miami Dolphins on Sept. 10, a wide-open offensive game in which it seemed anything was possible. But yards have been difficult to come by on the ground in the weeks that followed.

Last week, for example, the Chargers had 54 yards and zero touchdowns on 25 attempts against the Chicago Bears. After building a commanding 24-7 lead by halftime (sound familiar?), the Chargers struggled to run the ball and run out the clock. They rushed for just 25 yards on 15 carries in the second half but still came away with a 30-13 victory.

“I think the run game is something, obviously, we would like to improve on,” Moore said. “At times, you’re going to have different challenges in an offensive scheme. I think, for us, we just have to try and find something and just create some stability in it, so we can create some consistency.

“We’re not going to rush for the 200 yards we did in Week 1 (against the Dolphins). That’s not normal in this league. We have to find a way to create some stability in that world. You’re just trying to navigate it to figure out what scheme we should maybe best utilize.”

Austin Ekeler remains the Chargers’ top running back, a productive seven-year NFL veteran who led the league in overall touchdowns the past two years with 38, including 18 during the 2022 season. He’s rounding back into form after spraining his ankle in the second half against Miami.

However, Ekeler is frequently at his most effective when catching passes from Justin Herbert rather than trying to run through holes that close quickly and result all too often in short gains or no gain at all. Ekeler rushed for only 29 yards on 15 carries against Chicago, but caught seven passes for 94 yards.

Coach Brandon Staley earlier this week referred to the Chargers’ ground game as “a work in progress.” He also said, “I think that we have to continue to explore what the line, the tight ends and the backs do the best and how the receivers fit into that, too. We’re just a work in progress in that phase.”

Although the Chargers did not make a move at the NFL trade deadline Tuesday, they did make a change at tight end. They waived Tre’ McKitty earlier this week and signed Nick Vannett, hoping for better blocking beyond top tight ends Gerald Everett and Donald Parham Jr.

“Felt like we just needed an upgrade,” Staley said of the roster moves.

It remains to be determined whether it pays dividends in the run game.

“I think the mission was accomplished, in terms of how we wanted to play that game, getting Justin in rhythm,” Staley said of beating Chicago last week. “I thought that we protected the passer really well, so that’s a sign that our front was playing well. But in the run game, there’s room for improvement. I think everybody knows that.

“Sometimes there are just aspects of offense, defense and kicking game that just take more time than others. That (the ground game) is an aspect of ours that we need to keep working on.”

INJURY REPORT

The Chargers ruled out wide receiver Joshua Palmer for Monday night’s game against the New York Jets because of a knee injury. Palmer, the Chargers’ second-leading receiver with 23 catches for 377 yards and one touchdown in seven games, did not practice during the week.

Defensive lineman Morgan Fox (oblique), wide receiver Jalen Guyton (knee), defensive lineman Sebastian Joseph-Day (illness), linebacker Eric Kendricks (ribs), linebacker Kenneth Murray Jr. (shoulder) and defensive lineman Otito Ogbonnia (knee) were listed as questionable to play Monday.

Harris played other positions over the years. He participated in other sports, too.

But as a long snapper, he’s as good as it gets and as reliable as the Chargers could have hoped for when they signed him last year and paired him with punter PK Scott, who doubles as the holder for kicker Cameron Dicker. Thanks to Harris, the Chargers’ special teams truly are special.

“He’s one of the best I’ve ever been around,” Chargers special teams coordinator Ryan Ficken said. “It’s a craft he’s mastered. He’s been phenomenal for us.”

It’s a simple job, one that brings Harris onto the field only a handful of times each game, but it’s also one that demands perfection on every single snap. Or, at the very least, something very close to it. After all, the only time anyone watching from the stands or on TV actually notices him is if he makes a mistake.

“Honestly, I can say it happens all the time,” Harris said of a snap that goes awry. “I’m constantly chasing that perfect snap, which is very elusive. I’m always going to be my toughest critic, the same way all these guys are going to be their toughest critics. I know I hold myself to a really high standard and when I don’t meet that standard, personally, it’s an opportunity to say, ‘I can do better.’”

It’s why Harris, 34, takes the field earlier than most, joined by Scott and Dicker. Repetition after repetition. Snap after snap. Fire the ball to Scott’s right hip for a punt, so Scott doesn’t have to do more than catch the ball, drop it and punt it. Zip the ball with the laces out, so Scott doesn’t have to spin it before holding it for Dicker.

It’s led to zero blocked punts or kicks while with the Chargers.

“Josh is the best snapper I’ve ever played with,” said Scott, a six-year NFL veteran who has played the past two seasons with the Chargers. “He’s so consistent. He’s just got a really good process. Throws a really good ball. In the locker room, he makes everything so light. He’s been such a big help for me.”

Success has kept Harris on the job for 180 games in the NFL, including the past 24 with the Chargers after 10 seasons with the Atlanta Falcons. Harris was even selected for the Pro Bowl for the first time in the 2021 season while with the Falcons, when he made a career-high seven tackles.

Did we mention he tackles opponents on occasion?

Harris has two tackles this season, including a takedown of Kearis Jackson of the Tennessee Titans during overtime of the Chargers’ 27-24 loss on Sept. 17. Jackson returned Scott’s 47-yard punt 11 yards before Harris sent him crashing to the artificial turf at Nissan Stadium in Nashville.

“First and foremost, the guys on the punt team are all incredible athletes,” Harris said. “So, watching those guys go and do their job is a lot of fun. When the opportunity does present itself and I’m down there, I like to be able to contribute in the coverage game, as well. It’s not my only responsibility. It starts with the snap and then protection, but then it’s running. Run as fast as you can down there.”

Harris played many other positions while growing up in Carrollton, Georgia, including quarterback. He eventually shifted to defense while in high school. He also wrestled and played on the baseball team. He received zero scholarship offers and walked on to the team at Auburn University in 2008.

After winning the job as the Tigers’ long snapper, he found himself in a familiar position. He was undrafted but signed with the Falcons as a free agent in 2012. He played 156 games over the next 10 seasons with Atlanta before the Chargers signed him as a free agent on March 17, 2022.

He departed for Southern California as something of a local legend. Each season a bar in Auburn, Alabama, hosted a fantasy football league in which teams were selected in the usual fashion, but with one unusual condition. Someone had to pick and keep Harris on their active roster.

“One time, I got a tackle in a Monday night game and I was the only guy playing for this guy’s (fantasy) team, and maybe that one point, I don’t know if it got him the win, but they told me it did,” Harris said, laughing at the retelling. “My phone was blowing up after the game. That might be my only claim to fame.”

But it seems like a mortal lock that it’s going to happen in the not-too-distant future. Allen has 850 receptions for 9,930 yards and 56 touchdowns over his 11-year NFL career, all with the San Diego and Los Angeles Chargers. They are marks of longevity and of distinction, to be sure.

Allen, 31, has played on great teams, average ones and subpar ones during his career. He has made highlight-reel catches seem routine too many times to count. The five-time Pro Bowl selection has lined up out wide, in the slot, been sent in motion and even thrown a touchdown pass himself, a 49-yard strike to wide receiver Mike Williams during the Chargers’ victory over the Minnesota Vikings in Week 3.

This season, through seven games, Allen has 54 receptions for 643 yards, an average of 11.9 yards per catch. He has four touchdown receptions and has four games of 70 yards or more, the figure he needs to reach 10,000 career yards. He set a franchise record with 18 catches in Week 3.

“I think just being two different football players,” Allen said of a career that dates to the Chargers drafting him in the third round in 2013 from Cal. “I was a rookie, didn’t know the game that much, just was running around trying to be in the right spot for Phil.”

Phil would be Philip Rivers, the Chargers’ quarterback from 2002 to ’19.

“Right now, I kind of know the offense,” Allen said. “I know what’s going on. I know what the defense is doing. You just understand the game a little more. I think I’ve always been a guy who’s been kind of productive, counted on, on the teams I’ve always played on, so I feel like once I can’t be that guy I’ll shut it down.”

There will come a time, as it does for all athletes, when Allen can’t do it.

That day isn’t today, though.

“That’s my guy,” Chargers safety Derwin James Jr. said. “He’s just a baller. He works harder, he practices harder than any guy that you know. For him to do what he’s been able to do, nothing but love for him, nothing but respect. He’s going to go down as one of the greats. He’s going to get that gold jacket one day, for sure.”

James referred to the gold jackets given to players who enter the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. James hasn’t just admired Allen’s play from the Chargers’ sidelines. James, too, has been victimized by Allen’s precisely run pass routes, his ability to torch opposing defenders and his remarkable hands.

Even just practicing against Allen can be a humbling experience.

“He’s definitely one of the guys, starting early in my career that I saw who had a lot of success and I just wanted to duplicate that with Pro Bowl and All-Pro (selections),” James said. “He was a great guy to lean on, especially when I was going through adversity early in my career. He helped me out along the way.”

Allen is merely paying it forward. He said he learned from playing alongside players such as tight end Antonio Gates, the Chargers’ all-time leader in receptions with 955, receiving yardage with 11,841 and receiving touchdowns with 116. Allen is second with 850 catches and 9.930 yards and fourth with 56 touchdowns.

It’s not just teammates who pick Allen’s brain. It’s coaches, too.

Allen also has been a sounding board for Chargers coach Brandon Staley.

“They are that deepest level of football (conversations), in terms of attacking a coverage, attacking a certain defender, a certain type of defense,” Staley said. “How you can predict the coverage that you’re in based on your location, a couple of things that you can look at because he can see it like a coach.

“He’s seen all the looks.”

No doubt, Allen will see them all again Monday against the Jets’ defense, when he tries to hit a milestone only one other player in a Chargers uniform has reached. If he doesn’t get it against New York on Monday Night Football, it’s almost certain to come another day or night this season.

It will be a game to remember, but there’s one more mark he’d like to reach.

“Catch Antonio Gates for receptions,” he said.

Why?

“Just because he’s Antonio Gates,” he said, smiling.

The best recognizing the best.