Chargers Getting Offensive Boost For Saturday's Game vs. Patriots

Yesterday at 04:23 PM

Help is on the way for Jim Harbaugh and the Los Angeles Chargers just in time for them to clinch a playoff berth. 

On Friday, NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reported that Chargers running back J.K. Dobbins is coming off injured reserve and will suit up for this Saturday's game against the New England Patriots. He last played on Nov. 25 against the Baltimore Ravens. The Ohio State product suffered an MCL sprain in that game. 

Prior to going down with an injury, Dobbins was having a great season with the Chargers. He enters Week 17 with 788 rushing yards and eight touchdowns. The former second-round pick also has 28 catches for 134 yards. 

Dobbins is actually returning at the perfect time for the Chargers. The team's second-best option at running back, Gus Edwards, has been ruled out for Week 17 due to an ankle injury. 

Since Dobbins hasn't played in over a month, it's unlikely the Chargers will only utilize him at running back. Fans should expect to see Kimani Vidal and Hassan Haskins get work in the backfield. 

The Chargers can clinch a playoff spot with a win over the Patriots this Saturday afternoon. That being said, they're not trying to get ahead of themselves. They know they can't overlook New England, especially on the road. 

"Always one week at a time. We've got a lot of respect for this Patriots team," Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert told reporters. "We know we're going on the road and have to be prepared for everything."

Kickoff for the Chargers-Patriots game is at 1 p.m. ET. We'll see if the return of J.K. Dobbins gives Harbaugh's squad a lift. 

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