SAN DIEGO -- Head coach Mike McCoy said the San Diego Chargers will go with a three-headed monster at running back with second-year pro Melvin Gordon, change-of-pace back Danny Woodhead and scatback Branden Oliver. McCoy plans to ride the hot hand of whatever back is performing well, but Gordon is expected to be San Diego's early down back when the regular season begins.
Melvin Gordon
ESPN Fantasy Projection: 918.4 yards, 3.8 TD
Over or under: I’m going with the over here. Gordon finished without a touchdown his rookie season, but already got into the end zone during preseason play on a 44-yard catch and run. Ryan Mathews had his best season in the NFL during offensive coordinator Ken Whisenhunt's first stint with the Chargers in 2013, finishing with 1,255 rushing yards and six touchdowns. With Whisenhunt back in the fold, If Gordon stays healthy he could put up similar numbers in his second season.
Who else could see time: Woodhead led all running backs with 80 catches last season, and should get 200 touches again this year as San Diego’s back on third down and in the red zone. If Gordon or Woodhead falters, Oliver will be there to pick up the slack.
