Chargers vs Broncos: Five players to watch for on Monday Night

LAC: RB Melvin Gordon

Despite coming up against the best defense in the NFL, we very well may see a big night out of the backfield from Melvin Gordon. Gordon responded with a fairly disappointing rookie campaign to the tone of 997 yards and 10 touchdowns last season. With a revamped offense, if he remains healthy, 2017 may be an even better year for the third year back out of Wisconsin.

Gordon performed fairly well against the Broncos both games last season. Despite failing to find the end zone on the ground, Gordon rushed for a combined 205 yards on 50 attempts. These are solid numbers from Gordon and should be what we expect out of him week one. Fantasy owners: count on at least 25 rushes for 100 yards.

While the passing game may be the Chargers strongest area of their entire team, Gordon benefits the most from the added tools that the Los Angeles Chargers brought in. While second round pick Forrest Lamp is out for the season and first round pick Mike Williams is currently inactive, the passing offense is still so deep and the offensive line has gotten better.

Denver is not going to be able to bank on the run to shut Gordon down. Rivers, being the offensive genius that he is, will mix up looks and give the Broncos a very tough time in stopping Melvin Gordon.

Along with his 100 yards rushing, one touchdown has to be in the works as well as some possible receptions. All in all, ignore the hype around Denver’s defense and bank on Gordon to have a great week.