Posted by ESPN.com’s Bill Williamson
During my AFC West chat on Thursday, a reader said he thought the Chargers should use Michael Bennett as the primary tailback if LaDainian Tomlinson couldn’t play against Miami on Sunday. I agreed.
Let’s see it. Tomlinson was ruled out of his second straight game with an ankle injury. I do think Bennett should be the lead back.
Don’t get me wrong, I think San Diego should use Darren Sproles. But he should be used in the role that is best suited for him. But Sproles has to be used the right way. He is a change of pace back, not a primary ball carrier.
He's not as effective when he’s the lead back. He’s done it twice, last year in Pittsburgh in the playoffs, and last week against Baltimore. It didn’t work.
The Chargers should give Bennett the ball 15-18 times and see what he can do, while sprinkling Sproles in the rushing and receiving game to keep Miami off balance. We know the other way doesn’t work. Let’s see what will happen if Bennett is the starter.
During my AFC West chat on Thursday, a reader said he thought the Chargers should use Michael Bennett as the primary tailback if LaDainian Tomlinson couldn’t play against Miami on Sunday. I agreed.
Let’s see it. Tomlinson was ruled out of his second straight game with an ankle injury. I do think Bennett should be the lead back.
Don’t get me wrong, I think San Diego should use Darren Sproles. But he should be used in the role that is best suited for him. But Sproles has to be used the right way. He is a change of pace back, not a primary ball carrier.
He's not as effective when he’s the lead back. He’s done it twice, last year in Pittsburgh in the playoffs, and last week against Baltimore. It didn’t work.
The Chargers should give Bennett the ball 15-18 times and see what he can do, while sprinkling Sproles in the rushing and receiving game to keep Miami off balance. We know the other way doesn’t work. Let’s see what will happen if Bennett is the starter.
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ABOUT THIS BLOG
Bill Williamson
Williamson joined ESPN.com in 2008 after four seasons covering the Denver Broncos for the Denver Post. He previously covered the Minnesota Vikings, Green Bay Packers and Seattle Seahawks.
AFC WEST SCOREBOARD
Sunday, 11/22
Final/OT Pittsburgh 24 Kansas City 27 Final San Diego 32 Denver 3 Final Cincinnati 17 Oakland 20