Asante Samuel Defends Choice That Led To Game-Changing Penalty Call Vs Packers

The Los Angeles Chargers lost another close game this season in what is becoming a trend for this team. They dropped their game on the road to the Green Bay Packers by a score of 23-20, and it was another missed opportunity for the Bolts.

In a crucial moment of the game, Charger cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. was called for pass interference, leading to another chance that the Packers could score. Green Bay ended up scoring the go-ahead touchdown shortly after, and the rest was history.

“The Green Bay Packers faced a third-and-20 at their own 15-yard line, trailing by 4 points with less than four minutes remaining. Quarterback Jordan Love took the shotgun snap and dropped back to pass. He shifted left before firing a wayward pass over the middle of the field intended for receiver Dontayvion Wicks. Seconds after the throw hit the grass, a flag followed. Cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. had grabbed Wicks as the receiver was coming out of his break on a dig route. Pass interference. Fresh set of downs.”

Per Daniel Popper of The Athletic

Head coach Brandon Staley said that this game came down to execution, especially on the defensive side of the ball. The penalty on Samuel Jr. was unfortunate, but the team tries to emphasize the importance of not taking penalties each week.

“Every week we’re talking about fundamentals,” Staley said. “Every week we show them the officiating videos. Every week we’re talking about it. And so all we can continue to do is emphasize it.”

Per Daniel Popper of The Athletic

Obviously, Samuel Jr, wasn’t trying to get called for a penalty, and it was a poor mistake by him, He explained what happened in the play, and what he was thinking.

“We’re not thinking, ‘Don’t foul,’” Samuel said of those third-and-long penalties. “We’re thinking, ‘Make a play.’”

Per Daniel Popper of The Athletic

The Bolts didn’t lose this game because of one single play, but rather a combined amount of miscues. They were sloppy all game long, and it cost them a chance to get back to .500.

Now the Bolts will head home to get ready for the Baltimore Ravens, and that will be no easy task. Baltimore is one of the better teams in the entire league, and their defense will likely create some issues for this inconsistent Chargers offense.

Don't forget to join our community at LA Sports Report, where we celebrate all things Chargers!