The Chargers are three games behind the Broncos in the AFC West with three to play. So, if Denver wins Sunday at the Q, they win the division and the Chargers are fighting for a Wild Card spot. Barring a crazy turn of events, that means no chance for a home playoff game this season.
The Bolts will have close to their full complement of players available. Unless, of course, they don't.
We know punter Mike Scifres is out after having surgery to repair his broken collarbone. Defensive tackle Ryan Carrethers is doubtful. The three question marks are running back Ryan Mathews, defensive end Corey Liuget (both have ankle injuries) and tight end Ladarius Green, who sustained a concussion on a vicious hit by Brandon Browner last weekend against the Patriots.
It was called a penalty on the field, and although I hate to say it because I like Ladarius, it was a 100-percent clean, legal hit. The NFL confirmed as much on Friday when the league announced Browner would not be fined for the play.
The Broncos injury list is extremely long. Starting running back Montee Ball, reserve tackle Paul Cornick and backup wide receiver Cody Latimer are all out. Safety Quinton Carter is doubtful.
Former Aztecs running back Ronnie Hillman, who had a career-high 109 yards on 20 carries last time these teams met, is questionable with a foot injury. The Broncos also might be missing tight end Jacob Tamme and cornerback Kayvon Webster.
