Ryan Mathews got the first carry for the Chargers and ended up with five total in their preseason debut vs. Dallas on Thursday. Accumulating 19 yards on the ground, Mathews' worst moment came in the first quarter when a Cowboys defender got his helmet on the football and popped it out when Mathews dove for the end zone. He didn't play again after that mistake, but neither did the Chargers' first-team offense.
Splitting playing time with Danny Woodhead on the Chargers' first drive, Mathews' first three carries were solid gains for 5 to 7 yards each. He didn't show exceptional cuts or burst but was still very effective against a very bad defense.
Chargers coach Mike McCoy told NFL Network that he intends to keep feeding Mathews the ball despite the fumble.
Mathews will play again at the Seahawks on Aug. 15.