JK Dobbins scores late in Chargers’ thrilling win over Bengals

Justin Herbert is still beloved in his hometown of Eugene, Oregon. The feeling is mutual for the quarterback who played in three sports at Sheldon High before winning the Rose Bowl in Oregon and becoming an NFL star with the Chargers.

Still representing his hometown roots, the quarterback wore an “Irish Fishing Club” T-shirt during his press conference following last week’s win over the Tennessee Titans.

Now, Scott Wright’s phone continues to ring from students asking the fishing club advisor for the same shirt.

“It’s the biggest thing in the world here because everyone wants to be a part of something that Justin is a part of,” said Wright, a longtime football and baseball assistant coach who coached Herbert in both sports.

Ten years after Herbert helped found the fishing club, it is thriving, Wright said, thanks in part to the 26-year-old’s continued support. The quarterback, who signed a $262 million contract extension last year, will cover costs for students who need help purchasing a fishing license or equipment.

“He gave back, so it’s just nice,” Wright said. “We love it. We are quite proud of the lakes and rivers and the outdoors here in the Pacific Northwest.”

Herbert’s exceptional play in recent weeks has provided a positive platform for the fishing club’s moment in the spotlight. The quarterback has the Chargers (6-3) on a three-game winning streak entering Sunday night’s prime-time matchup with the Cincinnati Bengals. Herbert has posted a passer rating above 90.0 in nine straight games.

Since returning from a week off, which allowed him to rest his sprained ankle, Herbert has averaged 256.2 yards passing while completing 66.7% of his attempts. He has six passing touchdowns and one rushing score with no passes intercepted.