Chargers place four-time Pro Bowler on IR, hurting their playoff chances

On Wednesday, the Chargers (4-6) announced they're placing linebacker Joey Bosa on injured reserve after he suffered a foot sprain in a Week 11 loss to the Green Bay Packers. He will miss at least four games.

"It's hard to overstate how big the loss of Bosa is for the Chargers," wrote The Athletic's Daniel Popper.  "[Head coach] Brandon Staley's defense has been bad this season. The positive spurts, though, have come when Bosa and [linebacker] Khalil Mack are both healthy and rushing the passer at a high level."  

L.A. is fifth in the NFL in sacks (34) and ninth in tackles for loss (55). Bosa was second on the team in sacks (6.5) and fourth in tackles for loss (six). Rookie linebacker Tuli Tuipulotu — second on the team in TFLs (eight)— will fill in for Bosa. Although the 21-year-old has shown promise, replacing a four-time Pro Bowler is difficult. 

Aside from its ability to generate pressure, the Chargers defense is lousy. The unit is tied for 23rd in the NFL in points allowed (23.8) and ranks second to last in yards allowed (393.6). Despite the struggles, Staley insisted he won't cede defensive play calling following the loss to Green Bay.

Don't be surprised if the Chargers D struggles in a prime-time matchup against the Baltimore Ravens on "Sunday Night Football." Baltimore is fourth in the NFL in points scored (27.6). As of Wednesday, oddschecker lists the Ravens as a 3.5-point favorite. 

The New York Times simulator notes Los Angeles' playoff chances will fall from 10 to five percent if it loses on Sunday.