Branden Oliver, A Rookie Sensation

The Chargers undrafted rookie, Branden Oliver, has taken the NFL by surprise with his first two regular season games with the Chargers. Branden Oliver age twenty-three was originally drafted by the Colts this offseason but was never signed. Oliver spent four years at the University at Buffalo before the NFL. When the Chargers signed Oliver it was a great opportunity for him to learn the game through veteran running backs such as Ryan Mathews, Danny Woodhead, and Donald Brown. Little did fans know that he would soon become a key piece in their offense.

Brandon Oliver during pre game Via Roster Watch

Branden Oliver during his four years of college was an exceptional running back. Oliver had two, one thousand rushing yard seasons during his time at Buffalo. He also contributed thirty-three touchdowns over those four seasons, an average of eight and a half touchdowns a season.  Oliver also set a new school high previously held by James Stark with a total of 4,094 yards.

Brandon Oliver in College Via Tireball

After his college years, Branden Oliver entered the 2014 NFL Draft. Oliver was originally drafted by the Colts but was never signed. Oliver did not show up to the NFL Draft Combine held for rookies to showcase their skills to NFL teams. Oliver did however did participate in Pro Day which is similar to the NFL Combine. During his time at Pro Day he ran the 40-yard dash in 4.53 seconds which is respectable, but not elite. He also was able to bench twenty-six reps which would've tied for second best at the combine among running backs. Overall his physical gifts were well above average but his lack of height could've been a key factor on why teams thought he would be ineffective.

Brandon Oliver at Chargers Training Camp Via BigStoryStage

Overall the future is bright for San Diego and Branden Oliver is definitely a key contributor to this team. After Ryan Mathews, Danny Woodhead, and Donald Brown all went down with injuries, Oliver answered the call and was a key factor in the wins against New Jersey and Oakland. In fact in his first game, all of his rushes gained positive yards on nineteen attempts. So far Oliver has been 4-0 when put in a NFL game. If Oliver can keep up this kind of production there is no telling how well our offense will run! San Diego was home to arguably the best running back of all time and since then we have not seen the Chargers sign or draft an elite running back. There is no telling what this kid can do for this team if he keeps a clear head and focuses on what is important, winning.

Branden Oliver trucking over a Raider Via Espn