Chargers’ Offensive Coordinator Greg Roman Pitches Revival of Dominant Ground Game
Apr
New Chargers offensive coordinator Greg Roman is envisioning a return to the days of a formidable ground game, a feat the team hasn’t achieved since 2007 under Norv Turner’s leadership. With LaDainian Tomlinson leading the charge back then, the Chargers enjoyed a top-10 rushing attack.
Expressing his aspirations, Roman posed the question, “Can you imagine Justin Herbert with a great running game?” He elaborated on this vision, emphasizing the potential impact a strong running game could have on the team’s overall performance.
Under former head coach Brandon Staley, the Chargers struggled to establish a dominant ground game, never finishing higher than 21st in rushing yards. Roman believes that reviving the run game can exert significant influence on opposing defenses, a sentiment shared by many defensive coordinators in the league.
Having previously coordinated offenses featuring dynamic running quarterbacks like Colin Kaepernick and Lamar Jackson, Roman acknowledges that Herbert’s style differs but emphasizes a diverse approach incorporating various running schemes, motions, and shifts, alongside an expansive passing game.
Roman’s history with Jim Harbaugh at Stanford underscores their preference for a power-rushing offense, a strategy they aim to implement with the Chargers. However, uncertainty looms regarding the team’s running back situation, with key players like Austin Ekeler potentially departing in free agency.
As the Chargers navigate salary cap constraints, the question arises whether investing in a running back will be a priority for the new coaching staff in the upcoming season. With prospects like Isaiah Spiller and recent signings, the team faces decisions on how to bolster its rushing attack, potentially through the draft.