Chargers Will Face Dolphins Without Their Star Left Tackle

Ahead of their Week 1 matchup at home, the Chargers will have one less problem to deal with against their opponent from the AFC East to kick off 2023.

Dealing with various ailments, the Dolphins will be without their best offensive lineman to block in a matchup that could be dictated by pass rushers getting home.

The #Dolphins have ruled out LT Terron Armstead for Sunday's game vs. the Chargers. He's dealing with hip and leg injuries. pic.twitter.com/EpTwkMiBV4
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) September 8, 2023

Armstead has been the definition of a steady presence since signing with Miami after a long tenure with the New Orleans Saints.

A multiple-time Pro Bowl talent with an All-Pro nod to his resume as well, both Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack's ears perked up at the news that one of Tua Tagovailoa's protectors will be unable to suit up on Sunday.

In a rematch from last season's matchup, where the Bolts won, the Dolphins' quest for revenge got all the more tough without one of their best players.

Though their offense remains potent with speed freaks Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle on the outside, speeding up Tagovailoa's timing in the pocket could mean that the patented deep shots for Miami's offense could be fewer and further in between on Sunday.

A win for LA would be even more important for divisional standings early in the year as their hated rival Kansas City just lost their series opener at home to Detroit, thanks in large part to Kadarius Toney's consistent dropped passes and star tight end Travis Kelce's absence.

Though Bosa wasn't healthy for the entirety of the 2023 season, and Mack showed slight signs of age after coming over from Chicago in a trade, the Chargers' defense will need all hands on deck to stop a potent Miami offensive unit.

Without the services of their big left tackle, such a job became easier as the Bolts' pass rushers won't be the only ones with redemption on their mind.