Philip Rivers says Chargers will operate by committee at running back

At the start of the summer, some assumed Melvin Gordon would win the San Diego Chargers' starting running back position outright. With Week 1 rapidly approaching, that certainly isn't the case.

Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers stated Wednesday that the Chargers will operate their backfield by committee.

"As Coach has always said - I'm not saying anything out of the blue - it's a running back by committee crew," Rivers said to the San Diego Union-Tribune's Michael Gehlken. "It's going to be a team effort in that bunch. We're going to need all of them to carry the load in the run game and to catch the ball out of the backfield."

The Chargers selected Gordon in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft, but he struggled through the preseason. The former Wisconsin star rushed for a paltry 45 yards on 20 carries in two preseason contests, failing to secure the job.

"It's not going to be all Melvin," Rivers said.

Gordon acknowledged that he needs to make an adjustment to the professional game.

"There's so much I need to learn," Gordon said. "I am a young back that's willing to learn, has a lot to learn, and the more reps, the better. So the different teams we play, the different looks you get, you get more familiar, and things will slow down for you a lot. That will help me ... play faster and make more plays to help this team win ballgames."

San Diego's three-pronged attack of Gordon, Danny Woodhead, and Branden Oliver will likely keep defenses off-balance all season, but the Chargers are still likely disappointed that one of the all-time great collegiate running backs couldn't secure the role.