Ryan Mathews set for big return against Raiders
Sep 8, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; San Diego Chargers running back Ryan Mathews (24) celebrates with guard Rich Ohrnberger (74) after scoring a 20 yard touchdown during the second half against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
According to Chargers.com, “Mathews was expected to be the lead horse heading into the season, but he sprained his MCL in the fourth quarter during Week 2’s win over the Seattle Seahawks. Over the first seven quarters prior, he had 23 carries for 71 yards and a 20-yard touchdown plus four catches for 46 yards. Mathews returned to practice on a limited basis last week.”
The fact that Mathews returned to practice is a good sign. NFL analysts are predicting a full-fledged start for the former Fresno State Bulldog this Sunday.
In front of Mathews will be a sturdy, but shaken offensive line. This season has seen multiple injuries at the center position. Despite these injuries, the Chargers still have a solid front five.
Per the Chargers team site, “the offensive line has proven to be a resilient group heading into the bye. The center position was hit especially hard by injuries. Nick Hardwick’s season ended after one game due to stingers, and his replacement Rich Ohrnberger missed time due to a back ailment. Doug Legursky was signed when Hardwick went down and was thrust into the starting lineup after Ohrnberger’s back flared up. However, Legursky was lost for the season after suffering a knee injury. The Chargers then signed Trevor Robinson off the Cincinnati Bengals practice squad, but he has yet to see game action. Left tackle King Dunlap and right tackle D.J. Fluker have formed a pair of massive tackles tasked with protecting the quarterback. Both players have started every game, although swing tackle Willie Smith has seen time as well in a reserve role. Chad Rinehart has played nearly every snap of the season at left guard. While Johnnie Troutman has started each game at right guard, beginning Week 4 against the Jacksonville Jaguars, he started rotating series with third round pick Chris Watt.”
With that stated, I believe Mathews has the ability to make a huge comeback on Sunday. Considering he was able to muster some yards against two of the league’s best rush defenses, 100 yards on Sunday isn’t too outlandish of a prediction. I think Mathews will go for 100 at least. Even marking him for 80 is a tad bit modest. The passing game will be going as well, but look for Mathews to bounce back big against the AFC West’s worst run defense. The Raiders have stopped only New England (78) and Cleveland (38) for under 100 yards. Two out of nine is pretty good odds. Bank on those odds come Sunday afternoon.