NFL 2016: Top 5 running backs at midseason

3. Melvin Gordon

Melvin Gordon’s rise into the starting role was seen as improbable to say the least in training camp. Returning running back and Philip Rivers favorite target Danny Woodhead was slated as the starter until a torn ACL in Week 2 left the team no choice but to turn to Gordon. Now ten games into the season San Diego may never need to look back.

Gordon has taken the torch and run with it (literally) on his way to a league-leading number of attempts to go along with the second-most first downs. With the second-most rushing touchdowns and catching two through the air, Flash Gordon is living up the billing as being as a good as promised when originally coming out of the University of Wisconsin. As critical bye week gives Gordon & Co time to rest up, it’ll be important to watch how this young stud can help keep San Diego’s minuscule playoff hopes alive during the team’s final six games.

Though don’t expect him to make a world of difference. San Diego has shown it still marches to the beat of Rivers’ drum. After a four interception performance against a middling Dolphins defense yesterday, it’s hard to imagine Gordon’s legs will be the make-or-break factor for the Chargers’ season. Especially when the ball will be in Philip’s hands with the game on the line; not Melvin’s.

That doesn’t mean Gordon can’t leave his mark in every game left on the schedule. He’s a pivotal red zone weapon that can tough out short yards when the blocks aren’t there and also is a proven mismatch against linebackers in pass coverage. Gordon has the stuff to be a solid running back for years to come, and through 10 games he’s made his case to earn tenure in San Diego’s backfield.