2007 San Diego Chargers season: Difference between revisions
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Coming off their overtime road win over the Titans, the Chargers went home for a Week 15 interconference duel with the [[Detroit Lions]]. In the first quarter, the 'Bolts struck first with RB [[LaDainian Tomlinson]] getting a 6-yard TD run, Kicker [[Nate Kaeding]] getting a 22-yard field goal, and Tomlinson getting a 2-yard TD run. In the second quarter, San Diego continued its domination with Kaeding getting a 22-yard field goal and LB [[Shaun Phillips]] returning an interception 18 yards for a touchdown. The Lions would get on the board with QB [[Jon Kitna]] completing a 9-yard TD pass to WR [[Brandon Middleton]]. The Chargers would end the half with QB [[Philip Rivers]] completing a 1-yard TD run to TE [[Brandon Manumaleuna]]. |
Coming off their overtime road win over the Titans, the Chargers went home for a Week 15 interconference duel with the [[Detroit Lions]]. In the first quarter, the 'Bolts struck first with RB [[LaDainian Tomlinson]] getting a 6-yard TD run, Kicker [[Nate Kaeding]] getting a 22-yard field goal, and Tomlinson getting a 2-yard TD run. In the second quarter, San Diego continued its domination with Kaeding getting a 22-yard field goal and LB [[Shaun Phillips]] returning an interception 18 yards for a touchdown. The Lions would get on the board with QB [[Jon Kitna]] completing a 9-yard TD pass to WR [[Brandon Middleton]]. The Chargers would end the half with QB [[Philip Rivers]] completing a 1-yard TD run to TE [[Brandon Manumaleuna]]. |
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In the third quarter, San Diego continued its annihilation with RB [[Darren Sproles]] getting a 1-yard TD run and Kaeding nailing a 45-yard field goal. Detroit would get its final points of the game as Kitna completed a 17-yard TD pass to WR [[Shaun McDonald]]. In the fourth quarter, the |
In the third quarter, San Diego continued its annihilation with RB [[Darren Sproles]] getting a 1-yard TD run and Kaeding nailing a 45-yard field goal. Detroit would get its final points of the game as Kitna completed a 17-yard TD pass to WR [[Shaun McDonald]]. In the fourth quarter, the Chargers ended its day with Sproles getting an 11-yard TD run. |
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With the win, not only did the Chargers improve to 9-5, but they also clinched their second-straight AFC West title. |
With the win, not only did the Chargers improve to 9-5, but they also clinched their second-straight AFC West title. |
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Revision as of 02:35, 23 December 2007
 | This article documents a current sporting event. Information may change rapidly as the event progresses. Initial news reports, scores, or statistics may be unreliable. The last updates to this article may not reflect the most current information. |
| 2007 San Diego Chargers season | |
|---|---|
| Head coach | Norv Turner |
| Home field | Qualcomm Stadium |
| Results | |
| Record | 9-5 |
| Division place | 1st AFC West |
| Playoff finish | TBD |
The 2007 San Diego Chargers season began with the team trying to improve on their 2006 regular season record of 14-2. The Chargers returned a defensive unit that finished the 2006 season #1 in multiple defensive statistical rankings and an offensive unit that led the NFL in scoring.
Offseason
After a postseason loss to the New England Patriots, offensive and defensive coordinators Cam Cameron and Wade Phillips left for new coaching jobs with the Miami Dolphins and Dallas Cowboys respectively. Marty Schottenheimer, after originally being told he would stay as head coach, was fired in February[1]. Replacing Schottenheimer was Norv Turner, who was signed to take over the helm later in the month[2]. Turner, who installed the Chargers current offensive set when he was the Chargers' offensive coorindator in 2001[3], was selected to be the head coach largely due to the fact that he would maintain the offensive game plan that lead the team to its best regular season record in team history[4]. Turner also agreed with general manager A.J. Smith on the hiring of defensive coordinator Ted Cottrell, who had worked with Phillips when both were with the Buffalo Bills and later was the defensive coordinator with the Bills[5]. Chicago Bears defensive coordinator Ron Rivera, who interviewed for the Chargers' head coaching job, was hired to coach the Chargers' linebackers instead. Smith also re-signed Charger free agent offensive guard Kris Dielman to a six-year contract that will virtually guarantee him almost $17 million and put him around $40 million over the life of the deal [6]. Linebacker Donnie Edwards was not offered a contract and signed with his former team, the Kansas City Chiefs[7]. The Chargers released veteran wide receiver Keenan McCardell during the offseason along with safety Terrence Kiel[8][9][10].
2007 NFL Draft
The Chargers started out by making the 30th overall pick in the 2007 NFL Draft due to their 14-2 season in 2006. They selected Craig Davis out of Louisiana State University. In the second round, the Chargers made a trade with the Bears in order to move up and select safety Eric Weddle at slot 37#. He was selected as a possible replacement to Terrence Kiel, who was released earlier in the off-season following his arrest on drug charges during the 2006 season[11] . The Chargers exchanged their second round selection in 2007 as well as third round , fifth round and 2008 third round selection. The Chargers also selected linebacker Anthony Waters from Clemson University, who missed his senior season due to a leg injury [12].
| Draft order | Player name | Position | Height | Weight | College | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Round | Choice | |||||
| 1 | 30 | Craig Davis | WR | 6 ft 1 in (1.88 m) | 207 lbs (94 kg) | Louisiana State |
| 2 | 37 | Eric Weddle | SS | 5 ft 11 in (1.83 m) | 200 lb (91 kg) | Utah |
| 3 | 96 | Anthony Waters | OLB | 6 ft 3 in (1.91 m) | 245 lb (111 kg) | Clemson |
| 4 | 129 | Scott Chandler | TE | 6 ft 7 in (2.04 m) | 257 lb (116 kg) | Iowa |
| 5 | 172 | Legedu Naanee | WR | 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m) | 225 lb (102 kg) | Boise State |
| 7 | 240 | Brandon Siler | LB | 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m) | 238 lb (107 kg) | Florida |
Training camp
The Chargers will open training camp with 21 of 22 starters returning including 11 Pro Bowlers. QB Philip Rivers will return after taking over for Drew Brees in 2006 and helping the offense score a NFL-high 30.8 points a game . The starting RB position is filled with league M.V.P. LaDainian Tomlinson and lead reserve Michael Turner will return [13]. The primary competition appears to be heading into training camp on offense to be at WR where number 1 draft pick WR Craig Davis must work his way up the depth chart while competing with hold overs Vincent Jackson , Eric Parker and Malcom Floyd . The offensive line starting unit returns entact with competition expected for reserve roles[14]. On defense the primary competition will take place at CB where 2006 1 st round selection Antonio Cromartie will try and unseat veteran Drayton Florence[15]. Safety Eric Weddle who the Chargers traded several draft picks for will compete with Clinton Hart and Bhawoh Jue for playing time opposite Marlon McCree[16]. Donnie Edwards starting ILB will have to be replaced after his release , based on the current depth chart and last seasons training camp under study Matt Wilhelm[17] has the inside track for the starting role however the Chargers did draft Anthony Waters along with Brandon Siler who could challenge for playing time[18]. In addition returning ILB Tim Dobbins should see more action after a solid 2006 season in reserve[19]. Stephen Cooper who started several games at the strong side or run side ILB position is expected to start full time in 2007[20] with the departure of ILB Randel Godfrey[21]. Special teams again will be the major factor on several players ability to make the roster [22]. , Darren Sproles RB/KR who missed the 2006 campaign due to injury will be in a battle to make the roster[23]. The Chargers agreed to contract terms with six draft picks , Craig Davis , Anthony Waters ,Paul Oliver , Legedu Naanee , Brandon Siler and Eric Weddle signed On July 23 2007. The Chargers had previously signed Scott Chandler[24] which means all drafted players are expected to be in attendance at the start of training camp. 7/28/2007 marks the opening of training camp and it runs through August 22. Camp is held at Charger Park 4020 Murphy Canyon Rd San Diego C.A. 92123. 8/4/2007 10am Fan Fest will be held at Qualcomm Stadium 9449 Friars Rd San Diego, CA 92108. All events are free and open to the public.
Preseason schedule
| Date | Opponent | Result | Host Stadium | NFL Recap |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| August 12, 2007 | Seattle Seahawks | L 16 - 24 | Qualcomm Stadium | |
| August 18, 2007 | St. Louis Rams | W 30 - 13 | Edward Jones Dome | |
| August 25, 2007 | Arizona Cardinals | W 33 - 31 | University of Phoenix Stadium | |
| August 30, 2006 | San Francisco 49ers | W 16 - 13 | Qualcomm Stadium |
Current roster
Regular season schedule
Standings
| AFC West | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| W | L | T | PCT | DIV | CONF | PF | PA | STK | |
| (3) San Diego Chargers | 11 | 5 | 0 | .688 | 5–1 | 9–3 | 412 | 284 | W6 |
| Denver Broncos | 7 | 9 | 0 | .438 | 3–3 | 6–6 | 320 | 409 | W1 |
| Kansas City Chiefs | 4 | 12 | 0 | .250 | 2–4 | 3–9 | 226 | 335 | L9 |
| Oakland Raiders | 4 | 12 | 0 | .250 | 2–4 | 4–8 | 283 | 398 | L4 |
Regular season results
Week 1: vs. Chicago Bears
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bears | 0 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 3 |
| Chargers | 0 | 0 | 7 | 7 | 14 |
at Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego, California
- Game time: 3:15 p.m. CDT/1:15 p.m. PDT
- Game weather: 73°F (Clear and Sunny)
- TV announcers (FOX): Joe Buck (play-by-play) and Troy Aikman (color commentator)
- Game attendance: 67,837
- Referee: Pete Morelli
The Chargers began their 2007 campaign at home as they matched up their offensive firepower against the Chicago Bears and their rock-hard defense. In this defensive slugfest, the Bears would hold RB LaDainian Tomlinson (last year's league MVP) to just 12 yards rushing on 11 attempts, while getting a 27-yard field goal by kicker Robbie Gould in the second quarter. This game would also mark the first time since 2001 that the Chargers were shut out in the first half. In the third quarter, San Diego started to bounce back as Tomlinson threw his 7th career touchdown pass to TE Antonio Gates from 17 yards out. In the fourth, LT delivered the final blow with getting a 7-yard TD run.
With the win, the Chargers began their season at 1-0.
Scoring summary Q2 - CHI - 14:13 - Robbie Gould 27 yard FG (CHI 3-0)
Q3 - SD - 0:45 - 17 yard TD pass from LaDainian Tomlinson to Antonio Gates (Nate Kaeding kick) (SD 7-3)
Q4 - SD - 9:09 - LaDainian Tomlinson 7 yard TD run (Kaeding kick) (SD 14-3)
Week 2: at New England Patriots
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chargers | 0 | 0 | 7 | 7 | 14 |
| Patriots | 14 | 10 | 7 | 7 | 38 |
at Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, Massachusetts
- Game time: 5:15 p.m. PDT/8:15 p.m. EDT
- Game weather: 55°F (Clear & Cool)
- TV announcers (NBC): Al Michaels (play-by-play) and John Madden (color commentator)
- Game attendance: 68,756
- Referee: Ed Hochuli
Following their low-scoring home win over the Bears, the Chargers flew to Gillette Stadium for a Week 2 Sunday night fight against the New England Patriots, in a rematch of last year's AFC Divisional game. In the first quarter, San Diego trailed early as the Patriots took their opening drive and ended it with QB Tom Brady completing a 7-yard TD pass to TE Benjamin Watson. Afterwards, New England continued its opening assault as Brady completed a 23-yard TD pass to WR Randy Moss. In the second quarter, the Chargers continued to show last week's first half struggles as Patriots kicker Stephen Gostkowski getting a 24-yard field goal, while LB Adalius Thomas intercepted one of QB Philip Rivers' passes and returned it 65 yards for a touchdown.
In the third quarter, the 'Bolts finally managed to score as Rivers complted a 1-yard TD pass to FB Lorenzo Neal, but New England responded with Brady and Moss hooking up with each other again on a 24-yard TD pass. In the fourth quarter, San Diego tried to fight back with Rivers completing a 12-yard TD pass to TE Antonio Gates, but the Patriots ended the game with RB Sammy Morris getting a 3-yard TD run.
RB LaDainian Tomlinson was a non-factor, as he was only able to munster 43 yards on 18 carries. So far, he's off to rough start, as he only had 68 total rushing yards in the first two games.
With the loss, the Chargers fell to 1-1.
Week 3: at Green Bay Packers
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chargers | 7 | 7 | 7 | 3 | 24 |
| Packers | 3 | 14 | 0 | 14 | 31 |
at Lambeau Field, Green Bay, Wisconsin
- Game time: 10:00 a.m. PDT/12:00 p.m. CDT
- Game weather: 73°F (Sunny)
- Game attendance: 70,733
- Referee: Jeff Triplette
- TV announcers (CBS): Jim Nantz (play-by-play) & Phil Simms (color commentator)
Trying to rebound from their primetime road loss to the Patriots, the Chargers flew to Lambeau Field for Week 3, as they played an interconference game with the Green Bay Packers. In the first quarter, San Diego struck first with QB Philip Rivers completing a 27-yard TD pass to WR Vincent Jackson. The Packers would respond with kicker Mason Crosby getting a 28-yard field goal. In the second quarter, Green Bay took the lead with QB Brett Favre completing a pair of 5-yard TD passes, one to WR Donald Driver and one to TE Bubba Franks. The 'Bolts responded with Rivers completing a 9-yard TD pass to WR Craig Davis.
In the third quarter, the Chargers took the lead with Rivers completing a 21-yard TD pass to RB LaDainian Tomlinson for the only score of the period. However, in the fourth quarter, the Packers retook the lead with Favre's record-tying 57-yard TD pass to WR Greg Jennings, along with RB Brandon Jackson getting a 1-yard TD run. San Diego tried to come back, as kicker Nate Kaeding got a 44-yard field goal. However, the onside kick failed with Green Bay holding on to win.
With the loss, the Chargers fell to 1-2.
Week 4: vs. Kansas City Chiefs
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chiefs | 0 | 6 | 10 | 14 | 30 |
| Chargers | 10 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 16 |
at Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego, California
- Game time: 4:15 PM EDT/1:15 PM PDT
- Game weather: 76°F (Clear & Sunny)
- Game attendance: 65,175
- Referee: Larry Nemmers
- TV announcers (CBS): Dick Enberg (play-by-play) and Randy Cross (color commentator)
Trying to snap a two-game skid, the Chargers went home for an AFC West duel with the Kansas City Chiefs. In the first quarter, San Diego's struggling offense found some life with kicker Nate Kaeding getting a 24-yard field goal, while RB LaDainian Tomlinson got a 5-yard TD run. In the second quarter, the Chargers increased its lead with Kaeding kicking a 51-yard field goal. The Chiefs would answer with kicker Dave Rayner getting a 25-yard field goal. Afterwards, San Diego ended the half with Kaeding getting a 38-yard field goal. Unfortunately, in the third quarter, the Chargers lost their lead Kansas City getting a 41-yard field goal from Rayner and QB Damon Huard completing a 22-yard TD pass to TE Tony Gonzalez. Even worse, San Diego ended up losing in the fourth quarter with Huard completing a 51-yard TD pass to WR Dwayne Bowe, along with CB Tyron Brackenridge returning a fumble 50 yards for a touchdown.
With their third-straight loss, the Chargers fell to 1-3.
One of the few positives from the game, Tomlinson would finally get his first 100-yard game of the year. He would get 132 rushing yards on 20 carries.
Week 5: at Denver Broncos
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chargers | 14 | 6 | 14 | 7 | 41 |
| Broncos | 0 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 3 |
at INVESCO Field at Mile High, Denver, Colorado
- Game time: 1:15 p.m. PDT/2:15 p.m. MDT
- Game weather: 54°F (Partly Sunny)
- TV announcers (CBS): Jim Nantz (play-by-play) & Phil Simms (color commentator)
- Game attendance: 76,879
- Referee: Scott Green
Hoping to rebound from their embarrassing divisional home loss to the Chiefs, the Chargers flew to INVESCO Field at Mile High for a Week 5 divisional duel with the Denver Broncos. In the first quarter, San Diego got off to a fast start with QB Philip Rivers getting a 2-yard TD run. Immediately afterwards on the ensuing kickoff, rookie LB Brandon Siler returned a fumble 23 yards for a touchdown. In the second quarter, the Chargers increased its lead with kicker Nate Kaeding getting a 26-yard field goal. Afterwards, the Broncos got their only score of the game with kicker Jason Elam getting a 30-yard field goal. San Diego would end the half with Kaeding nailing 45-yard field goal.
In the third quarter, the Chargers continued their offensive revival with Rivers completing a 9-yard TD pass to TE Antonio Gates and a 15-yard TD pass to WR Vincent Jackson. In the fourth quarter, RB Michael Turner helped San Diego seal their easy victory with a 74-yard TD run.
With the win, the Chargers improved to 2-3. The win also marked San Diego's first back-to-back wins in Denver since '67-'68.
Week 6: vs. Oakland Raiders
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Raiders | 0 | 7 | 0 | 7 | 14 |
| Chargers | 14 | 0 | 7 | 7 | 28 |
at Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego, California
- Game time: 1:15 p.m. PDT
- Game weather: 73F° (Clear & Sunny)
- Game attendance: 67,523
- Referee: Ron Winter
- TV announcers (CBS): Dick Enberg (play-by-play) and Randy Cross (color commentator)
Coming off of their blowout divisional road win over the Broncos, the Chargers went home for a Week 6 divisional duel with the Oakland Raiders. In the first quarter, the 'Bolts came out striking with RB LaDainian Tomlinson got a 3-yard and a 27-yard TD run. In the second quarter, the Raiders managed to get on the board with LB Thomas Howard returning an interception 66 yards for a touchdown, along with the only score of the period. In the third quarter, San Diego went back to work with Tomlinson getting a 13-yard TD run for the only score of the period. In the fourth quarter, Oakland tried to salvage a comeback as QB Daunte Culpepper threw a 1-yard TD pass to TE Zach Miller. Fortunately, the 'Bolts sealed the victory with Tomlinson getting a 41-yard TD run.
With the win, the Chargers entered their bye week at 3-3.
Week 8: vs. Houston Texans
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texans | 0 | 3 | 0 | 7 | 10 |
| Chargers | 14 | 21 | 0 | 0 | 35 |
at Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego, California
- Game time: 4:05 p.m. CDT/1:05 p.m. PDT
- Game weather: 78F° (Slight Haze)
- TV announcers (CBS): Greg Gumbel (play-by-play) & Dan Dierdorf (color commentator)
- Game attendance: 60,439
- Referee: Bill Leavy
After speculation of where the game would be played due to the California wildfires, it was confirmed on October 26 2007 that Qualcomm Stadium would be discontinued as an evacuation site for San Diego residents (with most the evacuees moved to Del Mar). Before, sites in the Phoenix area were being considered to host the game, as well as Houston's Reliant Stadium, and also the Dallas Cowboys' Texas Stadium. Before the game a special tribute was paid to at the stadium for the fire fighters, National Guard, and volunteers who assisted in fighting the fires and helping the evacuees. Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger attended the game and flipped the coin, which the Chargers won. With an emotional charge from both the players and fans, as well as some victims, the Chargers played one of the best games of their season. Philip Rivers threw 3 touchdown passes despite only throwing 11 passes. Two TDs went to tight end Antonio Gates, and the remainder went to newly acquired wideout Chris Chambers, who was just traded from the Miami Dolphins a two weeks earlier and played his first game as a Charger (due to San Diego's bye week). However, that performance was second to second-year corner Antonio Cromartie, who performance included two interceptions, and two defensive touchdowns. He had a 70 yard INT return for a score, and the other was a complicated snap where the Texans snapped the ball over punter Matt Turk's head, and the ball fell into the end zone. Quickly having to recover, Turk missed grabbing the ball and it fell into the hands of Cromartie, easily scoring. The Chargers won, 35-10 in a home blowout, which was, in the quote of Ladainian Tomlinson, "one for the fans."
Week 9: at Minnesota Vikings
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chargers | 7 | 7 | 0 | 3 | 17 |
| Vikings | 7 | 0 | 14 | 14 | 35 |
at the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome, Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Game time: 10:00 a.m. PST/12:00 p.m. CST
- Game weather: Indoors
- TV announcers (CBS): Greg Gumbel (play-by-play) & Dan Dierdorf (color commentator)
- Game attendance: 57,692
- Referee: Mike Carey
After an emotional home win over the Texans, the Chargers flew to the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome for a Week 9 interconference duel with the Minnesota Vikings. In the first quarter, San Diego struck first with RB LaDainian Tomlinson getting a 1-yard TD run. The Vikings would respond with RB Adrian Peterson getting a 1-yard TD run. In the second quarter, no scoring would come until the final play of the half, as CB Antonio Cromartie returned a missed field goal 109 yards for a touchdown, the longest play in NFL history.
In the third quarter, things started to get grim for San Diego as Minnesota took the lead with Peterson getting a 64-yard TD run and QB Brooks Bollinger completing a 40-yard TD pass to WR Sidney Rice. In the fourth quarter, the Chargers tried to comeback as kicker Nate Kaeding nailed a 36-yard field goal. Unfortunately, the Vikings pulled sealed the win with Peterson getting a 46-yard TD run, along with RB Chester Taylor getting a 2-yard TD run. LaDainian Tomlinson, despite getting only 1 rushing touchdown, managed to surpass Jim Brown for most career rushing touchdowns with his 107th TD.
With the loss, San Diego fell to 4-4.
During the game, Minnesota rookie running back Adrian Peterson broke the NFL single-game rushing record with 296 yards rushing on 30 carries.
Week 10: vs. Indianapolis Colts
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colts | 0 | 7 | 0 | 14 | 21 |
| Chargers | 16 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 23 |
at Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego, California
- Game time: 8:15 p.m. EST/5:15 p.m. PST
- Game weather: 61F° (Light Rain)
- TV announcers (NBC): Al Michaels (play-by-play), John Madden (color commentator), and Andrea Kremer (sideline reporter)
- Game attendance: 79,725
- Referee: Gene Steratore
After an upset loss to the Vikings, the Chargers faced the defending Super Bowl champions in San Diego following their first loss of the season to the New England Patriots. Darren Sproles return the opening kickoff 89 yards for a touchdown. After a Nate Kaeding field goal, Sproles returned a punt 45 yards for his second special teams touchdown of the game with less than 6 minutes left in the first quarter. The PAT snap wasn't held and the PAT failed. Peyton Manning threw four interceptions in the first quarter alone. In the second quarter the Chargers put together a 45-yard drive resulting in a 4-yard touchdown run by LaDainian Tomlinson. Manning was able to score a touchdown to Reggie Wayne leaving the score 23-7 at halftime.
After a scoreless third quarter Manning threw a touchdown to Kenton Keith and the Colts were able to complete the two-point conversion. On third and 10 from the Chargers 8 yard line, Philip Rivers went back to pass and the ball slipped out of his hand and into the end zone. Colts linebacker Gary Brackett picked up the ball for a touchdown with 14:28 to play. The Colts failed the two-point conversion. With six minutes left in the game Rivers threw an interception to rookie Clint Session. In the red zone the Colts picked up the first down, but the booth reviewed the play and it was determined to be fourth and inches. The Colts intended to go for the first down, but a false start penalty by Ben Utecht moved them five yards back, and instead they went for the field goal. With 1:31 left the Colts lined up the kicking team for a game-winning field goal, but Adam Vinatieri's 29-yard kick was wide right. The Chargers ran down the clock and the Colts had 22 seconds to score, but the game ended with Clinton Hart intercepting the ball with time expiring for the Chargers win. Manning set a franchise record by throwing six interceptions in one game (3 to Antonio Cromartie and one apiece to Clinton Hart, Matt Wilhelm, and Shaun Philips).
Both team had significant injuries coming into the game. For the Chargers CB Quentin Jammer and DE Luis Castillo were out of the game. The Colts had 10 players out of the game[25] including TE Dallas Clark, WR Marvin Harrison, and OT Tony Ugoh. Dwight Freeney left the game with an injured foot.
With the win, the Chargers improved to 5-4. With Kansas City losing to Denver, San Diego retained first place in the AFC West.
Week 11: at Jacksonville Jaguars
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chargers | 0 | 3 | 7 | 7 | 17 |
| Jaguars | 10 | 7 | 7 | 0 | 24 |
at Jacksonville Municipal Stadium, Jacksonville, Florida
- Game time: 10:00 a.m. PST/1:00 p.m. EST
- Game weather: 70F° (Cloudy)
- TV announcers (CBS): Greg Gumbel (play-by-play) & Dan Dierdorf (color commentator)
- Game attendance: 66,732
- Referee: Larry Nemmers
Coming off their home upset over the Colts, the Chargers flew to Jacksonville Municipal Stadium for a Week 11 intraconference duel with the Jacksonville Jaguars. In the first quarter, San Diego trailed early as Jaguars kicker Josh Scobee managed to get a 48-yard field goal, along with RB Maurice Jones-Drew getting a 1-yard TD run. In the second quarter, the Chargers got on the board with kicker Nate Kaeding getting a 23-yard field goal. However, Jacksonville responded with QB David Garrard completing a 36-yard TD pass to WR Reggie Williams.
In the third quarter, San Diego responded with RB LaDainian Tomlinson getting a 6-yard TD run, yet the Jaguars answered with Garrard completing a 1-yard TD pass to TE Marcedes Lewis. In the fourth quarter, the Chargers tried to make a comeback as QB Philip Rivers completed a 24-yard TD pass to TE Antonio Gates. Unfortunately, Jacksonville's defense held on to win.
With the loss, San Diego fell to 5-5.
Week 12: vs. Baltimore Ravens
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ravens | 0 | 7 | 7 | 0 | 14 |
| Chargers | 0 | 22 | 7 | 3 | 32 |
at Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego, California
- Game time: 4:15 p.m. EST/1:15 p.m. PST
- Game weather: 70F° (Cloudy)
- TV announcers (CBS): Dick Enberg (play-by-play) and Randy Cross (color commentator)
- Game attendance: 63,337
- Referee: Tony Corrente
Hoping to rebound from their road loss to the Jaguars, the Chargers went home for a Week 12 duel with the Baltimore Ravens. After a scoreless first quarter, San Diego struck first with kicker Nate Kaeding getting a 27-yard field goal. Afterwards, the Ravens took the lead with RB Willis McGahee getting a 1-yard TD run. Fortunately, the Chargers regained the lead with QB Philip Rivers completing a 35-yard TD pass to TE Antonio Gates (with a failed PAT), Kaeding kicking a 46-yard field goal, Rivers completing a 5-yard TD pass to WR Chris Chambers, and Kaeding kicking a 41-yard field goal.
In the third quarter, San Diego increased its lead with Rivers and Gates hooking up with each other again on a 25-yard TD pass. Baltimore would manage to one final score as Ravens QB Kyle Boller completed a 13-yard TD pass to FB Le'Ron McClain. Fortunately, in the fourth quarter, the 'Bolts sealed the win with Kaeding nailing a 41-yard field goal.
With the win, the Chargers improved to 6-5.
RB LaDainian Tomlinson (24 carries for 77 yards) became the fourth-fastest player and the 23rd player in NFL history to get 10,000 career rushing yards.
Week 13: at Kansas City Chiefs
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chargers | 3 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 24 |
| Chiefs | 3 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 10 |
at Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, Missouri
- Game time: 10:00 a.m. PST/12:00 p.m. CST
- Game weather: 34°F (Partly Cloudy)
- TV announcers (CBS): Dick Enberg (play-by-play) & Randy Cross (color commentator)
- Game attendance: 74,874
- Referee: Ed Hochuli
Coming off their home win over the Ravens, the Chargers flew to Arrowhead Stadium for a Week 13 AFC West rematch with the Kansas City Chiefs. In the first quarter, San Diego trailed early as Chiefs kicker John Carney managed to get a 38-yard field goal. Afterwards, the Chargers got on the board with kicker Nate Kaeding nailing a 25-yard field goal. In the second quarter, Kansas City regained the lead as QB Damon Huard completed a 2-yard TD pass to DE Jared Allen. Afterwards, San Diego tied the game again as QB Philip Rivers completed a 38-yard TD pass to WR Vincent Jackson.
In the second quarter, the Chargers pulled away as RB LaDainian Tomlinson got a 31-yard TD run in the third quarter and a 28-yard TD run in the fourth quarter. His two rushing touchdowns helped him surpass Walter Payton for third place on the NFL's all-time rushing touchdowns list. The game also gave him his 3rd-straight 100-yard game against the Chiefs. Also, CB Antonio Cromartie recorded 2 INT to bring his league leading total to 8.
With the win, San Diego improved to 7-5.
Week 14: at Tennessee Titans
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | OT | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chargers | 0 | 0 | 3 | 14 | 6 | 23 |
| Titans | 3 | 0 | 7 | 7 | 0 | 17 |
at LP Field, Nashville, Tennessee
- Game time: 1:00 p.m. EST/12:00 p.m. CST
- Game weather: 69 °F (Cloudy with Sprinkles)
- TV announcers (CBS): Greg Gumbel (play-by-play) and Dan Dierdorf (color commentator)
- Game attendance: 69,143
- Referee: Bill Carollo
Coming off their divisional road win over the Chiefs, the Chargers flew to LP Field for a Week 14 intraconference duel with the Tennessee Titans. In the first quarter, San Diego trailed early as Titans kicker Rob Bironas managed to get a 44-yard field goal for the only score of the half.
In the third quarter, the Chargers would get on the board as kicker Nate Kaeding nailed a 20-yard field goal, yet Tennessee responded with RB Chris Brown getting a 7-yard TD run. In the fourth quarter, the Titans increased their lead with RB LenDale White getting a 7-yard TD run. Fortunately, San Diego tied the game with QB Philip Rivers completing a 7-yard TD pass to RB LaDainian Tomlinson and a 2-yard TD pass to TE Antonio Gates. In overtime, the 'Bolts got the win with Tomlinson getting the game-winning 16-yard TD run.
With the win, the Chargers improved to 8-5.
For Tomlinson, it was his 3rd overtime touchdown (the most in NFL history).
For CB Antonio Cromartie, his lone interception gave him 9 on the year, tying the franchise single-season record set by Charlie McNeil in 1961.
Week 15: vs. Detroit Lions
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lions | 0 | 7 | 7 | 0 | 14 |
| Chargers | 17 | 17 | 10 | 7 | 51 |
at Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego, California
- Game time: 4:15 p.m. EST/1:15 p.m. PST
- Game weather: 67°F (Clear)
- TV announcers (FOX): Sam Rosen (play-by-play), Tim Ryan (color commentator), & Chris Myers (sideline reporter)
- Game attendance: 66,505
- Referee: Mike Carey
Coming off their overtime road win over the Titans, the Chargers went home for a Week 15 interconference duel with the Detroit Lions. In the first quarter, the 'Bolts struck first with RB LaDainian Tomlinson getting a 6-yard TD run, Kicker Nate Kaeding getting a 22-yard field goal, and Tomlinson getting a 2-yard TD run. In the second quarter, San Diego continued its domination with Kaeding getting a 22-yard field goal and LB Shaun Phillips returning an interception 18 yards for a touchdown. The Lions would get on the board with QB Jon Kitna completing a 9-yard TD pass to WR Brandon Middleton. The Chargers would end the half with QB Philip Rivers completing a 1-yard TD run to TE Brandon Manumaleuna.
In the third quarter, San Diego continued its annihilation with RB Darren Sproles getting a 1-yard TD run and Kaeding nailing a 45-yard field goal. Detroit would get its final points of the game as Kitna completed a 17-yard TD pass to WR Shaun McDonald. In the fourth quarter, the Chargers ended its day with Sproles getting an 11-yard TD run.
With the win, not only did the Chargers improve to 9-5, but they also clinched their second-straight AFC West title.
For Darren Sproles (25 attempts for 122 yards and 2 touchdowns) and LaDainian Tomlinson (15 attempts for 116 yards and 2 touchdowns), they became the first RB duo in franchise history to both get 100 rushing yards in the same game. Also, Tomlinson ended this part of his career with 127 career touchdowns, surpassing Jim Brown for 7th All-Time.
Also, CB Antonio Cromartie received his 10th interception.
Week 16: vs. Denver Broncos
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Broncos | 0 | ||||
| Chargers | 0 |
at Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego, California
- Game time: 6:00 p.m. MST/5:00 p.m. PST
- Game weather: TBD
- TV announcers (ESPN): Mike Tirico (play-by-play), Tony Kornheiser (color commentator) and Ron Jaworski (color commentator)
- Game attendance: TBD
- Referee: TBA
Week 17: at Oakland Raiders
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chargers | 0 | ||||
| Raiders | 0 |
at McAfee Coliseum, Oakland, California
- Game time: 1:15 p.m. PST
- Game weather: TBD
- TV announcers (CBS):
- Game attendance: TBD
- Referee: TBA
Notes and references
- ^ Chargers fire Marty Shottenheimer Fox Sports. Accessed 25 July 2007.
- ^ Chargers hire Turner as Coach ESPN. Accessed 25 July 2007.
- ^ Norv Turner's Career At A Glance KPIX-TV. Accessed 20 July 2007.
- ^ San Diego Chargers teams by years Chargers All-time roster. Accessed 25 July 2007.
- ^ Ted Cottrell Profile Scout.com. Accessed 25 July 2007.
- ^ Contract Tracker Chargers Football Xtra. Accessed 25 July 2007.
- ^ Dielman decides not to bolt Chargers San Diego Union Tribune. Accessed 2 July 2007.
- ^ http://cfx.signonsandiego.com/sports/chargers/cfx/2007/03/chargers_release_six.html
- ^ http://www.nfl.com/players/playerpage/396008/gamelogs/2006
- ^ http://www.nfl.com/players/playerpage/1235/gamelogs/2006
- ^ http://www.totaldui.com/celebrity_dui_spotlight_sports.htm
- ^ Anthony Waters Prospect Profile NFL.com. Accessed 25 July 2007.
- ^ http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/chargers/home.htm
- ^ http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/chargers/home.htm
- ^ http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/chargers/home.htm
- ^ http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/chargers/home.htm
- ^ http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/2007-07-16-afc-west-preview_N.htm
- ^ http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/chargers/home.htm
- ^ http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/chargers/home.htm
- ^ http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/2007-07-16-afc-west-preview_N.htm
- ^ http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/player.asp?sport=NFL&id=563
- ^ http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/chargers/home.htm
- ^ http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/chargers/home.htm
- ^ http://www.nctimes.com/articles/2007/07/24/sports/professional/chargers/16_54_207_23_07.txt
- ^ http://www.nfl.com/teams/injuries?team=IND