The Chargers have had a hard time scoring points, but their offense has been able to pick up quite a few yards throughout the year.
The Chargers have enjoyed destroying teams from Florida this year, beating up on the Dolphins and Jaguars for a combined score of 75-20. However, outside of those two games, the Chargers have not topped 30 points in four quarters once this season.
Whether due to fumbles, interceptions, or poor play calls, the Chargers have not been able to reach their scoring potential often this season.
However, the team has certainly been able to move the ball well otherwise. And, for the first time since it’s-way-too-time-consuming-to-find-out-when, the Chargers could have three players go over 1,000 receiving yards this season.
As it currently stands, here are the three players projected to do so:
- Keenan Allen: 947 receiving yards (72.8 per game)
- Mike Williams: 841 receiving yards (70.1 per game)
- Austin Ekeler: 830 receiving yards (63.8 per game)
Moving down the list, this average would put each at about 1,165, 1,051, and 1,021 receiving yards. It would mark the third year in a row Allen has broken the 1,000-yard mark, but the first time for both Williams and Ekeler. Though important for Williams, it’s particularly impressive for Ekeler, who could accomplish something not many members of the NFL have done:
Chargers RB Austin Ekeler is on pace to become the 4th RB with 1,000 receiving yards in a season in the modern era of the NFL. He's gone 128 targets without a drop. Reliable, explosive and a game-changer.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) December 9, 2019
That’s impressive in any era, and Ekeler is looking as dominant as any multi-tool back in the league this season.
Austin Ekeler gained 85.2 yards after the catch on this 84-yard TD, +75.8 YAC above expectation, the biggest play above expectation by any player this season.
Only A.J. Brown (+215.0) has gained more YAC above expectation than Ekeler this season (+207.2).#LACvsJAX | #BoltUp pic.twitter.com/BRHn9IeqJf
— Next Gen Stats (@NextGenStats) December 8, 2019
Unfortunately, there are no trophies for 1,000 receiving yards for three different receivers. However, these numbers aren’t only wasted opportunities. It gives the Chargers a glimpse into what roles their players can share moving forward, and builds Anthony Lynn’s trust in what each of his offensive weapons can do in 2020. Kudos to each for approaching this milestone as it is, and best of luck to each as they try and top this important number in the three games to come.