Chargers Unafraid to Run Despite Modest Gains

The Chargers may be channeling their aviator past with a 21st century iteration, but elements of the ground game are still readily apparent. And whether the through-the-trenches chores are handled by LaDainian Tomlinson or Michael Bennett or Darren Sproles, “Air Turner” is merely a part of the service that moves the football for these San Diego Chargers. No worries. Philip Rivers will get his yards – he threw for 303 in Sunday’s 23-13 victory over the Dolphins – and the receivers will get opportunities to stretch their legs (Vincent Jackson, five catches, 120 yards, Antonio Gates, five/64 and Malcom Floyd, 2/65). But Turner’s philosophy is really no different than a host of other head coaches, who have tried to make a living in the National Football League. To have success over the long term, in this case an NFL season, teams have to run the football and balance that with a good mix of passes and play action. So despite his option to direct Rivers...