Jordan Mason got off to a strong start to the season, carrying 15 times for 68 yards against the Bears when he was still splitting time with Aaron Jones. Jones got injured the following week, and Mason broke out in the next game against the Bengals, finishing with a 16-116-2 line. In three games since, Mason has been good but not great, generally playing in a difficult matchup against an unfavorable game script. Jones will return on Thursday in Los Angeles, but I’d expect Mason to still be featured, with Jones playing a more complimentary role.
Mason has carried the ball at least 13 times for no fewer than 52 yards over that three game span, but hasn’t broken out for another big game. Thursday’s matchup against the Chargers could represent that breakout spot. After a strong start to the season defending the run, the Chargers are now allowing over 91 rushing yards per game to the running back position, and rank bottom-five in terms of yards per carry.
In Week 1, Patrick Mahomes led the Chiefs in rushing yards against the Chargers, with the two running backs combining for 41 total rushing yards. The following week, the Chargers managed to hold Ashton Jeanty to just 43 yards on the ground. Since then, it’s been a disaster.
Here’s the damage — JK Dobbins managed 83 yards on just 11 carries, Cam Skattebo went for 79 yards in a game Giants’ backs topped 100 rushing, Jacory Croskey-Merritt went for 111 yards on just 14 carries, DeVon Achane ripped off 128 yards and then Jonathan Taylor went for 94 last week.
The Chargers have been getting gashed on the ground, and Minnesota wants to get Mason going on the ground. This feels like the perfect spot to do so.
NFL Pick: Jordan Mason OVER 53.5 Rushing Yards (-110)
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