Chargers vs. Raiders: Rookie Running Backs Take Center Stage in Week 13
As the Los Angeles Chargers prepare to play against the Las Vegas Raiders this week at SoFi Stadium, this will be deemed a must-watch game for fans. Two strong running backs, Omarion Hampton and Ashton Jeanty, will be the determinants in their team’s success. As the Chargers attempt to strengthen their grip in their division, this will depend on how Hampton plays against his fellow first-round rookie and rival Jeanty on the Raiders. Both backs entered the NFL in 2025 with big expectations, and this duel could say a lot about the Chargers’ playoff hopes.
The Fate of Los Angeles Lies in Hampton’s Hands
Just this week, head coach Jim Harbaugh cleared Hampton to practice after his injury, which kept him out earlier this season, forcing the team to rely on other running backs during his absence. Hampton leads the Chargers as their starting running back and one of their best players. What makes him stand out is his strong, powerful running style he showed at North Carolina, where the Chargers picked him as the 22nd overall draft pick. When he is healthy, it is his speed and strength that help the Chargers keep possession and give their quarterback more chances to throw. Until now, though, he has missed time dealing with the ankle injury. What everyone is waiting to see is how much of his full ability he can bring to the Week 13 game, a game that could be very important for the rest of his rookie season.
How the Raiders Will Prevail
Lately, Jeanty has been the driving force for the Raiders at running back. Picked sixth overall from Boise State, Jeanty is known for his quick moves, agility, and ability to make plays both running and catching the ball. What stands out about him is how he can run tough between the tackles but also slip out to catch passes, making him a real weapon for the offense. Through 11 games this season, Jeanty has rushed 166 times for 604 yards and scored four rushing touchdowns. He has also caught 37 passes for 221 yards and added four receiving touchdowns, showing he can do a lot to help his team. Recently, Jeanty has been dealing with a minor ankle injury, and his health will be a key factor as he faces the Chargers in Week 13. What fans will watch closely is if he can stay strong and keep his usual energy against a tough Chargers defense.
Keeping the Spirit Alive
This matchup matters because the Chargers rely heavily on a balanced offense that leans on Justin Herbert's passing and Hampton's running to keep defenses honest. If Hampton can break free often against the Raiders’ defense, it will boost Los Angeles’ chances of not just winning but also controlling the game tempo. Meanwhile, the Raiders will look to Jeanty to keep drives alive and challenge the Chargers’ defense both on the ground and through the air. For fantasy fans and Chargers supporters, keeping an eye on these backs is crucial for Week 13. With the spotlight on Hampton as the Chargers aim to build momentum at home, his health and performance against Jeanty’s versatile attack will be critical for the Chargers. If Hampton can potentially push through his injury and run as he did at North Carolina, the Chargers will have an excellent shot at a crucial division win and an exciting game for fans to tune in to.
