The San Diego Chargers finished Sunday's 29-24 win over the Denver Broncos without injured running backs Mike Tolbert and Ryan Mathews. Even so, Chargers coach Norv Turner didn't sound concerned about the long-term impact of the injuries to his top two running backs.
It was announced during the second half that Tolbert wouldn't return to the game because of a concussion. Tolbert, who sustained the injury during the second quarter, finished with five carries for 24 yards and three receptions for 25 yards.
With Tolbert out the Chargers turned back to Mathews, who had left the game during the first half with a calf and strain and had been taken to the locker room. But Mathews was noticeably absent down the stretch as the Chargers relied on Jacob Hester. Turner alluded to the fact that Mathews was unavailable again late during the fourth quarter, but didn't provide specifics.
"I think (Tolbert) came out alright," Turner told reporters. "I think (Mathews) will be fine. The bye week comes at a good time."
The San Diego Union-Tribune reported Matthews left Denver on crutches. He was effective when he was on the field, finishing with a career-best 125 yards on 24 carries.
The report also noted that linebacker Shaun Phillips left the game with an undisclosed injury.
