JK Dobbins is back at practice as the Chargers aim to clinch a playoff berth against the Patriots. Will Dobbins play in Week 17? Get the latest updates on his injury and the Chargers’ playoff scenarios.
The Los Angeles Chargers received a much-needed boost this week with the return of running back J.K. Dobbins to practice. Dobbins, who has been sidelined with a knee injury since Week 12, is back on the field as the Chargers enter a crucial Week 17 matchup against the New England Patriots with a playoff spot on the line.
Dobbins Back in Action
J.K. Dobbins’ Injury and Return
Dobbins suffered a knee injury in the first half of the Chargers’ Week 12 game against the Baltimore Ravens.1 The injury, initially feared to be serious, turned out to be an MCL sprain. While it wasn’t a season-ending injury, it did force the Chargers to place Dobbins on Injured Reserve, sidelining him for a minimum of four games.
Now, after missing the required four games, Dobbins is back at practice and eager to contribute to the Chargers’ playoff push.
Chargers’ Excitement for Dobbins’ Return
The Chargers are understandably thrilled to have Dobbins back in the fold. Head coach Jim Harbaugh expressed his excitement, stating, “Super excited. Couldn’t wait, can’t wait, now he’s back.”
Offensive tackle Rashawn Slater echoed Harbaugh’s sentiments, saying, “We love that guy. Just raises the energy of everybody around him and he looks really good too. Pleasure to have him [back] for sure.”
Dobbins’ return provides a significant boost to the Chargers’ offense. Before his injury, he was a key component of their rushing attack, amassing 766 yards and eight touchdowns in 11 games.2 His presence on the field adds another dimension to the Chargers’ offense and takes some pressure off quarterback Justin Herbert.
Chargers’ Playoff Scenarios
Win and They’re In
The Chargers’ playoff hopes are firmly in their own hands. Thanks to their come-from-behind victory over the Denver Broncos on Thursday Night Football and some favorable results elsewhere, the Chargers control their own destiny. A win against the Patriots in Week 17 would secure their place in the playoffs.
Alternative Playoff Scenarios
While a win is the most straightforward path to the playoffs, there are other scenarios in which the Chargers could clinch a playoff berth in Week 17:
- Tie with Dolphins and Colts Losses or Ties: If the Chargers tie with the Patriots and both the Miami Dolphins and Indianapolis Colts lose or tie their respective games, the Chargers would also clinch a playoff spot.
Chargers Focused on the Task at Hand
Despite the high stakes and the various playoff scenarios, the Chargers remain focused on the immediate task at hand: defeating the New England Patriots.
One Game at a Time Mentality
Head coach Jim Harbaugh emphasized the team’s “one game at a time” mentality, stating, “Just attacking each day, attacking each year. Win the next game, that’s our mindset.”
This sentiment was echoed by several players, including defensive end Morgan Fox and offensive tackle Rashawn Slater. They stressed the importance of not looking ahead and focusing solely on the Patriots.
Respect for the Patriots
The Chargers are well aware of the challenge that the Patriots present. Despite their struggles this season, the Patriots have been a tough opponent, with half of their losses coming by one possession.
Quarterback Justin Herbert acknowledged the Patriots’ resilience, stating, “We’ve got a lot of respect for this Patriots team, they’re a very good football team. We know that we’re going on the road and we got to be ready for anything.”
Playoff Atmosphere
Playing with a Playoff Mentality
Even though the Chargers haven’t officially clinched a playoff spot, they have been playing with a playoff mentality for several weeks now. Safety Derwin James Jr. highlighted this, saying, “It’s [been] playoff games ever since what’s been at stake a couple of weeks ago. Every game, we’ve been treating them like a playoff game.”
This approach has served the Chargers well, and they will need to maintain this intensity and focus as they head into a crucial Week 17 matchup against the Patriots.
Conclusion
The return of J.K. Dobbins is a major boost for the Chargers as they head into a pivotal Week 17 game against the New England Patriots. With a playoff berth on the line, the Chargers are focused and ready to take on the challenge. Whether Dobbins plays or not, the Chargers are confident in their ability to secure a victory and clinch a spot in the playoffs.
