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Ryan Mathews injury: Chargers RB expects to play vs. Broncos

San Diego has a big task ahead of it, but at least appears to have the services of Mathews for the contest,

The San Diego Chargers needed a quasi-miracle to make the playoffs. Then they got in, beat the Cincinnati Bengals 27-10, and now have a date with the Denver Broncos on Sunday afternoon.

There was some fear running back Ryan Mathews would not be able to go after sustaining a re-aggravation to his ankle. However, Mathews says his balky ankle will not keep him from suiting up against Denver, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune.

"My mindset is I'm playing," said Mathews, who praised the work of the team's running backs. "We keep fighting. Coach (Mike) McCoy says it all the time. It's the next man up. We're all ready."

San Diego will likely need Mathews if it expects to beat the Broncos for the second time this season at Mile High. In their previous meeting, the Chargers used the tandem of Mathews and Danny Woodhead to spearhead a rushing attack that racked up 177 yards compared to Denver's 18.

Mathews was the focal point, carrying 29 times for 127 yards and a touchdown. Against Cincinnati, San Diego rushed the ball 40 times for 196 yards and two scores.

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