Chargers Ground Game Revitalized in Victory against 49ers

The Chargers showcased a strong ground game in their preseason victory, rushing for 267 yards and averaging 6.5 yards per attempt.

The Chargers showcased their potential during their final exhibition game against the San Francisco 49ers, securing a 23-12 victory and a 2-1 record in preseason play. Under the guidance of new offensive coordinator Kellen Moore, the Chargers made significant strides in improving their ground game, an area that had been lacking in previous seasons. They amassed an impressive 267 rushing yards, averaging 6.5 yards per attempt.

While it's important to acknowledge that the figures were somewhat inflated by Joshua Kelley's 75-yard touchdown run in the first quarter, it's evident that the Chargers are moving in the right direction. It's worth noting that this game primarily featured backup players, and the passing game was not a focal point. The Chargers opted for a straightforward, ground-based approach after establishing a 20-12 lead in the closing minutes of the third quarter.

Nonetheless, this performance provides a glimpse of what the Chargers are capable of when the regular season kicks off on September 10 against the Miami Dolphins at SoFi Stadium. The offensive line exhibited excellent blocking, dominating the line of scrimmage and creating ample opportunities for the running backs to gain significant yardage. In fact, it was tight end Stone Smartt's critical block that allowed Kelley to break free for his touchdown run.

Kelley's standout performance solidified his position as Austin Ekeler's backup, as he carried the ball twice for a team-leading 78 yards. Third-string quarterback Max Duggan also made an impact with his legs, gaining 51 yards on six carries, most of which were designed runs that caught the 49ers' defensive line off guard. Tyler Hoosman contributed 43 yards on 12 attempts, showcasing the Chargers' depth in the running back position.

It's worth mentioning that the Chargers surpassed 200 rushing yards in their previous victory over the Rams on August 12. In fact, they were on track to reach 300 yards if Isaiah Spiller's 71-yard touchdown run in the third quarter hadn't been nullified by a holding penalty. Despite this setback, Spiller still managed to gain 14 yards on five carries against the 49ers.

The Chargers' defense also made significant contributions to the victory. Edge rusher Carlo Kemp was credited with forcing a fumble by 49ers running back Jordan Mason near the goal line, and defensive back Deane Leonard recovered the ball in the end zone, resulting in a crucial turnover early in the game. TV replays suggest that linebacker Nick Niemann may have been the one who caused the fumble.

Linebacker Daiyan Henley intercepted a deflected pass from the 49ers' third-string quarterback Brandon Allen in the third quarter. Henley's interception set up Cameron Dicker's 35-yard field goal, extending the Chargers' lead to 20-12.

In terms of special teams, Coach Brandon Staley opted to utilize both kickers for the second consecutive game, leaving the decision on which kicker to keep unresolved as the final roster cuts loomed. Cameron Dicker made field goals of 24 and 35 yards, while Dustin Hopkins made a 27-yard field goal and two extra points.

The Chargers' quarterbacks, Max Duggan and Easton Stick, relied on their mobility rather than their passing skills against the 49ers' backup defense. Duggan completed 4 of 9 passes for 15 yards and threw a 3-yard touchdown pass to tight end Hunter Kampmoyer. Stick completed 9 of 11 passes for 38 yards.

Duggan's touchdown pass came on a fourth-and-2 play at the 49ers' 3-yard line. Despite being seemingly cornered by the 49ers' defense, Duggan managed to scramble to his right and deliver a precise pass to Kampmoyer, who found an opening in the coverage and scored a go-ahead touchdown late in the third quarter.

As the deadline to cut the roster to 53 players approaches, the Chargers face tough decisions. They will also have the opportunity to set their 16-man practice squad later in what is known as Week 0. The Chargers will kick off their regular season with a game against the Dolphins at SoFi Stadium in Week 1.