Ryan Mathews Rookie Card
The San Diego Chargers have had the benefit of having one of the best running backs to ever play the game carrying the ball for the last few years, but with the time and a decrease in production comes the need for a change, and change they did.
With the 12th pick in the 2010 draft they picked a player which the team felt could easily make people forget the initials ‘LT’; his initials are RM for Ryan Mathews.
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US $49.99
The former Fresno State Bulldog is as primed for success as any back entering into the 2010 season. Choosing him to take over the running game was a virtual no-brainer. How can you go wrong with picking the player that led the nation in rushing? You can’t!
In his first season at Fresno State it was clear that this young running back was something special. As a freshman he ran for 866 yards on 145 carries for an average of just under six yards a carry and 14 touchdowns. His per carry average and touchdown total led all freshman running backs in the nation.
His greatness had to weight another year before it could ascend. As a sophomore he got off to a great start with nearly 600 all-purpose yards and six touchdowns before getting injured in the fourth game of the season. His rushing total was good enough to find him in the top ten after four games leaving the fans and coaches at Fresno State wondering what this guy could do with a full season of games under his belt.
During his junior season in 2009 he sure showed them and the rest of the football world who Ryan Mathews is. In 12 games he ran for 1808 yards on 276 carries for an average of 6.5 yards a carry and 19 touchdowns. His rushing total ranked behind George Jones and the guy he is slated to replace in San Diego, LaDainian Tomlinson.
His play throughout his college career showed that he is capable of getting the job done. You can argue that he did not play real tough competition, but when you average 150 yards a game for an entire season you have to be good. With the Chargers they will be looking for him to compliment the passing game at first so he will have some time to work his way into the role.
However, if you are looking for a breakout player in 2010 then look no further than Ryan Mathews. He has the tools and is with the team that could allow him to have an incredible season. So just in case you better pick up his rookie trading card!
Update: After a lackluster 2010 season, Mathews will need to prove himself as a player in 2011.