Around the NFL

Ryan Mathews, Keenan Allen miss Chargers practice

Published: Dec 23, 2014 at 07:23 AM

Marc Sessler

The Chargers began preparation for Sunday's showdown with the Chiefs minus two of their offensive centerpieces.

Running back Ryan Mathews and wideout Keenan Allen both missed Tuesday's practice, according to Michael Gehlken of U-T San Diego.

Philip Rivers

Mathews hasn't played since injuring his ankle in Week 14, while Allen remains week-to-week with the broken collarbone he sustained in a Week 15 loss to the Broncos. While coach Mike McCoy says it's possible Mathews will suit up Sunday against the Chiefs, it's fair to wonder if Allen will even play again this season.

Quarterback Philip Rivers produced his share of jaw-dropping heroics in Saturday's overtime win against the 49ers, but San Diego will be hard-pressed to repeat that effort against the Chiefs. As the only team in the league that hasn't allowed 30 points in a game this season, Kansas City's seventh-ranked defense has the firepower to slow down the Bolts.

As we mentioned on the podcast, the Chargers simply need a win to nab a playoff berth, while the Chiefs need a victory and plenty else to happen on Sunday. You couldn't ask much more from a Week 17 showdown between two AFC West foes.

The latest Around The NFL Podcast recaps every Week 16 game and breaks down the playoff picture. Find more Around The NFL content on NFL NOW.

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