Hillman gained 109 yards on 20 carries and 29 yards on three receptions in Thursday's 35-21 win over the Chargers. Hillman played well and earned his second 100-yard outing in three weeks, but it was fellow running back Juwan Thompson who got a pair of one-yard touchdowns. While obviously frustrating for Hillman's owners, it's important to note that Thompson was lined up as a fullback in front of Hillman on both plays, rather than replacing him as the halfback. Thompson's size could get the rookie a few extra touches near the painted grass, but the Broncos have mostly kept Hillman in for goal-line situations in Montee Ball's (groin) absence. Ball is expected to miss at least one more game, leaving Hillman as the probable lead back against a shaky New England run defense. With the way he's played thus far, Hillman is making a strong case to keep a significant role in the offense upon Ball's return to health.