Bold Predictions-Wild Card Edition

Dec 29, 2013; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Chargers running back Ryan Mathews (24) runs for a short gain during the first half against the Kansas City Chiefs at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

Ryan Mathews Rushes for Over 150 Yards
I’ll admit it, for years I have been a critic of Mathews. Guilty as charged. In his first three seasons as a Charger, Mathews constant fumbling issues and nagging injuries made me wonder if it was such a good decision drafting Mathews 12th overall out of Fresno State. I guess some of the resentment I held in after drafting Mathews in the 3rd round of my fantasy draft in 2012 (stupid decision). No matter though, this season Mathews has proven to me and Chargers fans that he was not a waste of a 1st round pick. In his 16 games Mathews has rushed for over 1,200 yards and 6 rushing touchdowns. Although he didn’t catch as many passes out of the backfield as in 2011 (50 receptions for 455 yards in 2011 compared to just 26 receptions for 189 yards in 2013), Mathews has still been productive. Considering that Mathews has to deal with RB Danny Woodhead, it is no wonder that he doesn’t get all of the receptions because typically Woodhead would be the back to use for QB check-downs. Regardless of Woodhead though, Mathews has really come on as of late, rushing for 473 yards in the past 4 games along with 3 touchdowns as the Bolts have gone 4-0. Can we say that Mathews has been the sole reason for the Chargers late season surge? Definitely not. However, he has definitely played a huge role in Mike McCoys 5th ranked offense this season. Looking forward to Sunday’s game at the Bengals, I expect Mathews trend of 99+ yards to continue. The Bengals 5th-ranked defense will be so preoccupied with trying to contain Philip Rivers and the Chargers passing game that Mathews will be able to run free for some huge gainers and even some clutch touchdowns. When looking at Danny Woodhead’s role in this San Diego offense I’m honestly not scared. Woodhead is primarily a 3rd-down and passing situation’s only back and should not steal any of Mathews precious carries. The person who really controls Mathews destiny is Ryan Mathews. If Mathews can muster up all of the pent up strength (and luck), then he can be able to run all over the Bengals and their 5th-ranked rush defense. Just you watch NFL fans, just you watch.