San Diego Chargers Week 11 Keys to Victory

Sep 8, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; San Diego Chargers running back Ryan Mathews (24) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Chargers 18-17. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Ryan Mathews Needs to Come Back Strong

As stated in my previous article, Ryan Mathews needs to come back strong against the Raiders on Sunday. Before getting injured against the Seahawks, Mathews rushed for 40 yards against the Cardinals and 31 yards against the Seahawks, two of the league’s best rush defending teams. Not to mention, during that time Mathews added two receptions for 46 yards, adding a rushing touchdown in the process.

This season the Raiders defense has been awful against the run, allowing 130.9 rushing yards per game against opposing backs to go along with nine rushing touchdowns. The Raiders have allowed seven 100+-yard games to opposing backs this season, as well. This could be the match-up Mathews has been waiting for all season.

In terms of his injured knee, reports have Mathews fully practicing at Chargers camp, showing little to no signs of slowing down. The Chargers do have RB Donald Brown as well as the rookie Branden Oliver. Before Mathews became healthy, Oliver was the number one back. However, after some lack-luster performances in his past two games, Oliver has been replaced by the healthy and ready Mathews. If the Chargers offensive line is up to the task, I see no reason Ryan Mathews can not go for big yardage. I expect a big game from Mathews, perhaps a 100+ yard game. It wouldn’t be out of the question given Mathews’s performance against the Raiders in the past year. Last season Mathews rushed for 99 yards on 25 carries with a touchdown and 20 yards through the air.  Expect no different on Sunday.

Next: Philip Needs A Big Game