Los Angeles Sports Teams' Reputations as Playoff Chokers

Introduction

Los Angeles has had its fair share of championship caliber professional sports teams over the years. However, despite fielding talented rosters, some LA franchises have developed a reputation for falling short in clutch moments. This tendency to falter with a title on the line has led to these teams being referred to as "chokers."

The Dodgers' Playoff Shortcomings

The Dodgers have been one of baseball's most consistent regular season teams, winning their division nine times since 2004. But success in the regular season hasn't translated to postseason glory. LA has made the playoffs 15 times since 2004 but only won one World Series title in 2020. Their playoff failures include:

Blown Leads

The Dodgers lost in the NLDS in 2019 after blowing a 3-1 series lead to the Nationals. They also let a 2-1 lead slip away in the 2020 NLCS before falling to the eventual champion Braves in 6 games.

Clayton Kershaw's Struggles

Clayton Kershaw is one of the most dominant regular season pitchers ever, but he's had high profile struggles in the playoffs. His postseason ERA (4.22) is nearly two runs higher than his regular season ERA (2.48).

World Series Defeats

Despite winning the NL pennant in 2017 and 2018, the Dodgers fell to the cheating Astros and Red Sox in the World Series. The losses prevented back-to-back titles.

The Chargers' "Choke Jobs"

As an original AFL franchise, the Chargers' history dates back 60 years with limited championship success. They've developed a reputation for finding shocking ways to lose in big games.

The Freezer Bowl

In 1981, the Chargers lost the AFC Championship game to the Bengals in -59 °F windchill. Dubbed the "Freezer Bowl," the Chargers' high-powered offense was neutralized by the extreme cold.

2006 Playoff Loss

In 2006, the Chargers were heavy favorites over the Patriots. But star running back LaDainian Tomlinson was injured early and the Chargers blew a fourth quarter lead, losing 24-21.

Championship Drought

Despite 16 playoff appearances since their lone Super Bowl appearance in 1994, the Chargers haven't been back to the big game. Time is running out for veterans like Philip Rivers to end the drought.

Other Notable LA Chokers

The Rams' Super Bowl Struggles

As The Greatest Show on Turf, the Rams dazzled but ultimately fell just short, losing Super Bowl 36 to the Patriots on a last second field goal. They lost again 17 years later to Brady's Patriots 13-3 in a shockingly sluggish offensive showing.

UCLA Basketball

UCLA has more national championships than any program (11), but recent tournament losses as a favorite have tarnished their legacy. They've failed to reach the Sweet 16 six times as a 4 seed or better since 2006.

The Kings' Playoff Collapses

The early 2010s Kings were Stanley Cup contenders but could never make it over the hump. They became the first NHL team to lose three straight playoff series in which they led 2-0, establishing a new precedent for playoff failure.

Summary

Despite LA's embarrassment of championship riches across sports, some franchises and fanbases are left waiting for the day they finally shed the choker label. For the Dodgers, Chargers and others, the frustrations mount as the clock ticks on their championship windows. Maybe this will finally be the year.

FAQs

Why are some Los Angeles sports teams considered chokers?

Despite having talented rosters, teams like the Dodgers, Chargers and others have repeatedly failed to win championships when favored to do so in clutch playoff moments.

Which Los Angeles team is the biggest playoff choker?

The Dodgers have arguably claimed this title in recent years. Despite dominant regular seasons, they have lost back-to-back World Series and blown multiple playoff series leads.

Will the Chargers ever win a Super Bowl?

The Chargers have not returned to the Super Bowl since their lone appearance in 1994, losing numerous playoff games as favorites along the way. But with stars like Justin Herbert, their championship window remains open.

Why do the Kings get labeled as chokers?

The Kings infamously blew three straight playoff series (in 2012, 2013, 2014) in which they led 2-0. This unprecedented playoff collapse cemented their reputation as postseason chokers.

Has UCLA underachieved in March Madness?

Despite having the most NCAA basketball championships, UCLA has frequently lost as a high seed in early rounds of the tournament in recent years.