Mathews Following LT, Not Replacing Him

SAN DIEGO (AP) - Ryan Mathews wants to be clear -- he's following LaDainian Tomlinson, not replacing the great running back with the San Diego Chargers.

After showing his speed and power in the limited context of exhibition games, Mathews gets to unleash it full-time when the Chargers begin pursuit of their fifth straight AFC West title Monday night at Kansas City.

Mathews idolized Tomlinson to the point that he wore No. 21 while at Fresno State. On draft day, when the Chargers moved up 16 spots to take Mathews with the 12th pick overall, he suddenly found himself taking over for L.T.

Mathews says he respects Tomlinson's legacy and is not trying to replace him. He says he'll do his part to help the Chargers win and hopefully begin building his own legacy. 

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