LA Chargers: Stifling James Robinson and 5 keys to defeating the Jaguars

2. Limiting James Robinson’s production

James Robinson has been fun to watch this season with an amazing story. Robinson has made the most of his opportunity as an undrafted rookie running back with 362 yards on the ground for three touchdowns.

There’s fairly decent efficiency with his production as well, as Robinson is averaging 4.3 yards per carry. 85 carries are quite a bit for an undrafted running back, and I think you’ll see them keep the volume up this week as they try to attack the Chargers’ interior.

The Jaguars’ scoring output has a clear correlation with the rookie running back’s production. In the three games where Robinson has rushed for 50+ yards, Jacksonville has averaged 27.3 points per game. Conversely, the Jaguars put up 14.3 points per game when Robinson doesn’t hit that 50-yard mark.

Jacksonville’s run game is another reason why getting an early lead is important. Look to their last game against Detroit as an example. With the Lions up two touchdowns at the half, the Jaguars could no longer use Robinson like they usually do. He finished with 16 total touches offensively, which was his lowest mark of the season.

If the LA Chargers’ defensive line applies quality pressure against the run game with Justin Jones and Melvin Ingram back, Robinson shouldn’t be too much of a concern. Still, the Chargers should aim to get a large early lead like mentioned before to avoid dealing with Robinson and the ground game at all.