Let's get the uncomfortable part out of the way: The Chargers didn't generate any serious expectations early in the season. This writer remained skeptical of them even after a 2-0 start, especially because injuries to star players once again became a problem for this team. Here, however, the Chargers are firmly in second place in the AFC West and are feeling good after a 23:16 away win against Denver. The first big takeaway from this win was how legitimate Los Angeles' defense has become under first-year coordinator Jesse Minter. Yes, taking out a rookie quarterback like Bo Nix isn't a big deal, but this unit was equally strong against Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs in a Week 4 loss. It's not hard to imagine the Bolts winning this game with a healthier team, which is why there's hope they'll be playing relevant football in the winter. Quarterback Justin Herbert looked better after dealing with a high ankle sprain before the Week 5 bye. It was just as encouraging to see him play more football against the Broncos. Herbert averaged 144.5 yards in his first four games this season. He threw for 237 yards and a touchdown against Denver as Los Angeles benefited significantly from a defense that lost Patrick Surtain II, the Broncos' Pro Bowl cornerback, to a concussion early in the game. If Chargers offensive coordinator Greg Roman can continue to push the offense, there is every reason to believe this team can stay in the playoff race. As with most of the other clubs mentioned here, it depends on the schedule. The Chargers should be happy with that. Over the next month they will see the Cardinals, Saints, Browns and Titans. These teams have combined for six wins.