As the Chargers take on the Chiefs in the Monday night bout, several players will be under the microscope. Here are two Chargers players on each side of the ball to keep an eye on:
Offense — RB Melvin Gordon
After a lackluster start to his season, Gordon has had success the past two consecutive games. The past two games combined, Gordon has rushed for 188 yards on 42 carries (4.4 yards per carry), including three touchdowns. His performance against the Raiders last Thursday marked the first time a Chargers player has rushed for over 100 yards.
Gordon could very well have a season-high performance facing one of the most generous run defenses in the league, who is allowing 148.1 rushing yards per game. Look for the Chargers to lean on Gordon to exploit the Chiefs’ weakness early and often. A multi-touchdown game is well within reach.
Defense — FS Rayshawn Jenkins
It won’t be an easy task for the Chargers to slow the Chiefs offense, who present arguably the most explosive in the league, featuring some of the fastest wide receivers, and are capable of making monstrous plays happen at any given moment.
While the linebackers and cornerbacks will have to stay sound to their assignments and the players they’re covering, it’ll be crucial for Jenkins as the last line of defense. Jenkins will have the responsibility to tackle in the open field in case someone breaks loose and he has to defend those deep passes.
