San Diego Chargers Week 17 Keys To Victory

Dec 14, 2014; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Chargers running back Branden Oliver (43) runs the ball against the Denver Broncos during the fourth quarter at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

Provide Superb Run Blocking For Mathews, Oliver and Brown(s)

Against the Chiefs in week seven, the Chargers rushed for 69 yards on 16 carries, with most of their yards coming on Philip Rivers 205 yards and two touchdowns through the air. However, I believe that in order to be successful against the Chiefs this week, the Chargers need to run the ball. This season, the Chiefs have allowed an average of 128.3 rushing yards per game to opposing teams (ranks fifth-worst in the league this year). From weeks 9-14, the Chiefs allowed 143.3 rushing yards per game to opposing backs.

Against Pittsburgh, the Chiefs held the usually powerful Steelers running game to just 63 yards on 20 carries. I believe that the Chargers need to exploit the Chiefs run D and provide superb blocking. Branden Oliver averaged 4.5 yards per carry against the Chiefs already this season. With Ryan Mathews coming back into the lineup (potentially), the Chargers running backs are going to need all the help they can get.

Once the running game is solid, then the magical Philip Rivers can work his passing game to perfection.

Next: Limit Turnovers