The recent hiring of Jim Harbaugh as the new head coach of the Los Angeles Chargers has sparked anticipation and speculation about the changes he will bring to the organization. While the defensive coordinator position has been filled, there is still work to be done in the front office and on the offensive side of the ball. However, early insights from Harbaugh's coaching history suggest a shift towards a run-focused approach for the team.

During his time with the San Francisco 49ers, Harbaugh's team had one of the lowest passing attempts in the NFL, second only to the Seattle Seahawks. Additionally, at the University of Michigan, Harbaugh's team had an efficient quarterback who often utilized the running game, ranking 17th in rushing play percentage.

In contrast, the Chargers have been known for their high number of passing attempts, ranking second in the NFL from 2021-2023. However, this discrepancy may be due to game situations, as the Chargers often found themselves in two-minute situations and possess a talented quarterback.

Analyzing specific game situations further reveals that the Chargers displayed a tendency towards passing even in neutral situations outside of the two-minute drill. On the other hand, the 49ers ran the ball slightly above the league average, taking game situations into account.

These findings suggest that under Harbaugh's guidance, the Chargers may adopt a more run-forward approach for the first time in quarterback Justin Herbert's career. While some argue that NFL teams do not pass the ball enough, successful teams like the Chiefs, Bills, and Buccaneers have shown the effectiveness of efficient passing. However, the Chargers might compensate for a more run-focused strategy with even more efficient passing, which aligns with Harbaugh's coaching style.

If the Chargers do prioritize the running game, they will likely need to make adjustments in roster building. The 49ers were intentional about adding offensive linemen who excel in run-blocking, as well as utilizing fullbacks and run-blocking tight ends. While the Chargers already have invested in their receiving corps, additional investments in receivers in the middle rounds of the draft and guard positions are expected.

Furthermore, the Chargers may seek to acquire a tight end, either through free agency or the draft, to further enhance their offensive arsenal. A day two running back selection also appears likely to complement the team's newfound emphasis on the running game.

As the Chargers embark on this potential sea change in their offensive strategy under Jim Harbaugh, it remains to be seen how effective it will be in the highly competitive NFL. Nonetheless, fans can expect a shift towards a run-forward approach that could bring a new dynamic to the Chargers' offense in the upcoming season.