The Chargers defense defeated the Kansas City Chiefs 37-20.
OK, the offense helped a bit too. They put up solid numbers and quarterback Philip Rivers completed 18 of 23 and two touchdowns.
But again, it was the Chargers’ defense that changed the game.
They forced six turnovers, including one Donald Butler interception that he took to the house.
The Bolts came out swinging, scoring a touchdown on their first drive of the day and controlled the rest of the game.
Running back Ryan Matthews got a chance to get in the game after his fumble last week. He was San Diego’s leading rusher with 61 yards.
Jackie Battle still got his chance to get in on the action and had 39 yards on the day.
The Chargers led 27-6 at halftime. It was the first time since 2010 they had scored 27 points in the first half, they now improve to 41-0 when scoring 27 points in the first half. It was also the first time they had led by 21 points at the half since 2010, they are 36-0 all-time when leading by at least 21 points at halftime.
San Diego came out in the third quarter sitting on their heels a bit and Kansas City scored two touchdowns before the Bolts could respond with a score.
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Defensive coordinator John Pagano quickly regained control of his defense and quickly slowed down Kansas City’s running game and Jamaal Charles.
Kicker Nate Kaeding did not make the flight to Kansas City due to a groin injury.
Nick Novak got the call on Friday that he would be the one taking his place. He has been spending his days at San Diego State’s practice field since getting cut from the Chargers earlier in the season.
Today, he was perfect.
Scoring 3-3 including 47 and 45-yard field goals.
San Diego hits the road again next week to play the Saints in New Orleans.
