The Los Angeles Chargers still have a chance at making the playoffs if they get some help in Week 17, but the task would be much more difficult if their star running back is forced to sit. Fortunately, it does not sound like that will be the case.
Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported on Wednesday that Melvin Gordon is “optimistic” he will be able to play on Sunday despite suffering a sprained ankle last week.
#Chargers RB Melvin Gordon, dealing with an ankle sprain, is optimistic about playing Sunday vs. #Raiders, source said. Swelling was minimal
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 27, 2017
Gordon carried the Chargers to a win over the Jets in Week 16 with 128 total yards and a touchdown. L.A. can clinch a postseason berth this weekend in one of three ways. The first is they would have to beat the Raiders at home, have the Titans lose to or tie the Jaguars and the Bills lose to or tie the Dolphins. The second way would be the Chargers winning, the Titans losing or tying, and the Ravens beating the Bengals or playing to a tie. The third and final way would be the Chargers tying Oakland and the Bills losing to Miami or playing to a tie.
In other words, the Chargers need a lot of help. They would need even more help if Gordon can’t go.
