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Every successful NFL starts with a good quarterback. It's just that simple and shows just how important having one is. But the signal caller can't do it all alone and must rely on having strong options surrounding them. For the Los Angeles Chargers and quarterback Justin Herbert, one of his main options is running back Austin Ekeler

Ekeler has been one of the more dominant backs in the league over the last two seasons. His ability to carry from the backfield and be a pass catcher gives him much versatility. You could make the argument that he is the best all-purpose back in the league due to this and it has helped the Chargers offense thrive. 

Jeff Kerr of CBS Sports recently put together a list of top duos on each NFL team and the Herbert/Ekeler pairing ruled the day for LA.

If the Chargers are to compete in the AFC, Herbert and Ekeler are main cogs for the franchise trying to win their first Super Bowl. 

Per CBS Sports

Kerr is absolutely correct in saying that the Chargers won't be competitive without their duo playing up to par. Herbert has turned himself into one of the best quarterbacks across the NFL and has the ability to take off games by slinging the ball all over the field. He is coming off a season where he was hampered by injuries but still managed to throw 4,739 yards and 25 touchdowns.

As for Ekeler, he has put up 3,195 yards from scrimmage over the past two seasons. He has 25 rushing touchdowns over that time as well, making him a magnet for the end zone. If he can continue his production, the Chargers will be scary on offense once again.

This team is going to need both of them to be competitive. The AFC is loaded again this season but there is no reason as to why the Chargers shouldn't find themselves playing come playoff time.