The Los Angeles Chargers find themselves in a dire situation as they enter Week 9 of the 2026 NFL season with a dismal record of 0-7. Expectations were high for the offense with the hiring of Mike McDaniel as the new offensive coordinator, but the results have been catastrophic, with the team ranking at the bottom of the league in multiple offensive categories.

In a bid to turn things around, McDaniel announced his decision to call plays from the coaching box rather than the sideline. He stated, "One of the things I want to try is call plays from the box to kind of see adjustments for myself and communicate to the position coaches appropriately."

This move comes after the Chargers offense has struggled tremendously, averaging only 14.1 points per game (last in the NFL) and 288.3 total yards per game (28th). They have gone 27 straight drives without a touchdown, with their last score occurring in Week 5 against the Denver Broncos.

Justin Herbert, the Chargers quarterback, has also faced significant regression under McDaniel's guidance, throwing just five touchdowns against 10 interceptions. His late-game performance has particularly faltered, with six turnovers and zero touchdowns in the fourth quarter this season.

As the Chargers prepare to face the Houston Texans at SoFi Stadium, this shift to the booth may be seen as a desperate attempt to salvage McDaniel's job. If the offense continues to underperform, it could lead to serious repercussions for McDaniel, with speculation about his potential firing growing stronger.

With the Texans' defense showing vulnerabilities this season, the upcoming game provides an opportunity for the Chargers to finally find their rhythm. However, whether a change in McDaniel's vantage point will yield positive results remains uncertain.