The Facts:
The past two seasons, the Chargers' backfield has been by committee, split between Mathews and Mike Tolbert to keep a rotation that involved both players' strengths. Tolbert was featured during the team's two-minute drill and other passing situations. He also saw most of the work near the goal line. With Tolbert's free-agency departure to Carolina, Mathews will assume most of that work. And it's time, Chargers coaches say. "I personally think he's ready to take that next step," said HC Norv Turner, who added he thinks Mathews has what it takes to someday lead the league in rushing.
Reported by the San Diego Union-Tribune
Fantasy Football Diehards Line:
Union Tribune staffer Michael Gehlken reminded readers that a good base for this offseason was built last year when Mathews rushed 222 times for 1,091 yards and six touchdowns, also totaling 50 catches for 455 yards. He averaged 5.7 yards per touch, second most in the league among players with at least 210 touches. Gehlken went on to explain the campaign allowed the Chargers to strip and compartmentalize all of Mathews' game onto film - the sideline runs, the inside runs, the open-field runs, pass protection, route running and so forth. They've run through the good and not-so-good, deciding what to keep and what to hone. One key, highlighted area is making the last defender miss in the open field. In 2011, Mathews had 34 rushes of 10 or more yards, tied for third most in the league. But he's yet to break off a 40-yard run in his career, and he was one of only two running backs last season to total 200 rushes without a run of 40 or more yards. Sounds like the team will try to change that.
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