Chargers News: Kellen Moore's Downhill Run Scheme Gels with Zion Johnson and OL

The Bolts could have a big year in the run game.

The Los Angeles Chargers are getting set to enter the 2023 regular season, knowing there's a year of change ahead. 

Sure, star quarterback Justin Herbert returns -- new contract in hand -- along with running back Austin Ekeler, wide receiver Keenan Allen, and a host of other weapons on the offensive side of the ball, but there's a significant change on staff in new offensive coordinator Kellen Moore, who comes over after spending four seasons as the Dallas Cowboys OC. 

And the early returns on Moore's tenure are positive, as Chargers offensive lineman Zion Johnson had rave reviews for his new coordinator's downhill run scheme, as he told the Guilty As Charged podcast. 

#Chargers Zion Johnson on Kellen Moore’s downhill rushing attack: “All of us love it, we feel like we're built for the downhill run game. We've got a lot of big strong guys and we're excited to add that aspect to our offense and really get after it.”

— Guilty As Charged Podcast (@GACPodcast17) August 14, 2023

The downhill run game was a staple of Moore's offenses in Dallas as he helped running backs Ezekiel Elliott and Tony Pollard become two of the better ball carriers in the league over his time in the Lone Star State. 

Now he's brought that scheme with him to Los Angeles, and it could pay huge dividends for Austin Ekeler and the rest of the Chargers' running backs. 

Ekeler was already one of the more underrated backs in the league last season, tallying career highs with 915 yards and 13 touchdowns in 2022. 

With Moore in charge of the offense, he could elevate his already impressive and well-rounded game in what's sure to be one of the better units in the NFL. 

Additionally, if Ekeler is utilized more this season -- he averaged only 12 carries per game last year -- it could open up the offense even more for Herbert and the passing game if defenses have to respect the threat of Ekeler more. 

Either way, look for Ekeler and the Chargers offensive line to have a big year. Both have already shown the ability to be productive last year, and now, with Moore in LA, they're set up for a standout season in what's a crucial year ahead for the team.