3. Austin Ekeler, RB, Chargers
After two games in 2019, Austin Ekeler of the Los Angeles Chargers has produced respectable numbers with 29 carries for 124 yards and two touchdowns running the ball, but he also has 12 receptions for 163 yards and two touchdowns receiving.
The 24-year-old is in his third season in the NFL out of West Colorado, and this season he’s averaging 4.3 yards per carry. For his three seasons with the Chargers, Ekeler has rushed for 938 yards in 32 games played, with most of them in a reserve role. His career average per rush is 5.2 yards, and receiving he’s caught 78 passes for 846 yards with eight touchdowns.
Ekeler’s numbers against the Detroit Lions last Sunday saw him finish with 17 carries for 66 yards and one touchdown, and receiving he finished with six receptions for 67 yards. Also, the Texans defense has allowed 251 rushing yards this season on 42 rushing plays. The opponents of the Texans are averaging 6.0 yards per carry.
The Texans need to be very careful and know where Ekeler is at all times this Sunday, because he’s such a dangerous player with the expanded role on the Chargers offense, plus he’s averaging 13.6 yards per reception in ’19. The linebackers of the Texans will have a tough task ahead of them this weekend, but they can’t let Ekeler beat them this Sunday, because if they do, the Chargers will win this game.