Ryan Mathews Injury: Mike Tolbert Useful in Fantasy Even If Mathews Starts

According to ESPN's Chris Mortensen, Ryan Mathews, who is listed as probable with a groin injury, is hoping to get 15-20 touches during tonight's game against the Oakland Raiders.

It's certainly good news for the San Diego Chargers and fantasy owners that Mathews will be back in the lineup tonight. 

But, can he really be trusted to make it through a full game at this point?

First of all, Mathews is suffering through a groin injury. Yeah, it's not like those linger or anything. Even if he's active for tonight's game, there's a huge risk of re-injury.

Second of all, it's Ryan Mathews. This kid isn't the spokesperson for perfect health.

He struggled through an injury-plagued rookie season last year, and this year, it seems that he has left over half the games he's started for a different reasons.

Yes, he sometimes returns, but it appears that Mathews' favorite third quarter activity is to visit the locker room. 

It's just not a good bet that Ryan Mathews will get his full share of carries. It's as simple as that.

And according to that report, his intended full share of touches is between 15 and 20. My guess is that turns into somewhere between 10 and 15.

That leaves the rest of the work to Mike Tolbert, who is already going to get third downs and short-yardage opportunities.

Tolbert, a big bruising back, can get it done inside the tackles or out of the backfield as a pass-catcher. He truly is a valuable running back. 

With Mathews' injury concerns, I would rate Tolbert equal with Mathews, as they should both get around the same amount of touches.