San Diego Chargers’ Branden Oliver Could Have Big Day Against Kansas City Chiefs

By Paul Jackiewicz @Paul_Jackiewicz on October 18, 2014

After being voted the Pepsi Rookie of the Week for the past two weeks, San Diego Chargers rookie running back Branden Oliver could be in for a big game on Sunday against the Kansas City Chiefs and their 23rd-ranked run defense.

The Chiefs’ defense has given up at least 100 yards rushing against three of their six opponents this season. The Denver Broncos almost eclipsed the century mark, but fell short and ended up with 91 yards when they played the Chargers. So while the Chiefs aren’t horrible against the run, they’re simply not good.

Oliver has been very productive with 57 carries for 249 yards and two rushing touchdowns so far this season. He’s averaging 4.4 yards per carry. Oliver’s also caught 12 passes for 124 yards and one touchdown. So he’s already proven he’s a duel threat who opposing defenses will have to account for each week.

It’s really a testament to the Chargers’ coaches that they’re running game has been so effective this season. Despite the fact that both offensive linemen Doug Legursky and Nick Hardwick are already done for the year with season-ending injuries.

It does, of course, help that quarterback Philip Rivers is an MVP candidate right now. His strong play only makes the job of Oliver and every running back on their roster a lot easier because opposing teams can’t cheat up in an attempt to stuff the run. They have to constantly account for Rivers and his entire group of receivers that he can target on any given play.

To me, this seems like another game that Oliver should be able to shine and possibly win a third-straight Rookie of the Week award.