As the Los Angeles Chargers prevailed in an absolutely pivotal game over the Philadelphia Eagles, 22-19, the offense, to be certain, was less than pretty.
Yet, they ground out the win, and, in the process, the bold prediction that Omarion Hampton made prior to his return concerning the dynamic ability of him and Kimani Vidal in the backfield proved absolutely correct:
"Yeah, it's amazing to see him just go out there and produce the way [Vidal] did and everything like that," said Hampton. "That's definitely going to be special. Me and him gonna definitely be special."
Now, as the Chargers attempt to pass through this gauntlet that their final four games of the regular season represent, they have one of their most lethal offensive weapons back in their arsenal.
Omarion Hampton and Kimani Vidal could be the dual weapon that the Chargers need to close out the season
Of all the injuries that Los Angeles has suffered this season, perhaps none has been more brutal than Hampton's, who missed seven games with an ankle injury that he suffered in Week 5 against the Washington Commanders.
In his absence, however, Vidal, who was elevated from the practice squad in order to account for the injuries to both Hampton and lead back Najee Harris, was excellent. Through the seven games in which he was the unchallenged lead back, Vidal amassed 525 yards and three touchdowns, posting three separate performances of 100 or more yards on the ground.
Yet, Hampton has the ability to bust out more explosive runs, and, combined with Vidal's steady ability to create short gains, Chargers fans knew that the duo had the opportunity to be special.
Against the Eagles, this proved correct. Although Justin Herbert led the team in rushing yards, Hampton and Vidal combined for 110 rushing yards and 71 receiving yards, with their performances being a vital factor in keeping the team's offense afloat long enough for their defense to ultimately win them the game.
Moreover, having someone of Vidal's caliber alongside Hampton allows the team to ease the rookie back from his injury. They essentially split carries on the night, and there's no reason to think that such a balance will be significantly altered over the rest of the season assuming their joint production continues.
Therefore, while it wasn't the flashiest night for Hampton, one thing is certain. The Chargers are happy to have a 1-2 punch in their backfield yet again.