First Drive Sets Tone for Bolts

Posted Nov 1, 2012

Ryan Schuler Contributing Writer Facebook Twitter

It took quarterback Philip Rivers and the Chargers’ offense less than five minutes in Thursday night’s game against the Kansas City Chiefs to snap their six-quarter touchdown drought and set the tone for the game.

After not putting the ball in the end zone since late in the first half against the Denver Broncos on “Monday Night Football,” the Chargers were finally able to put seven points on the scoreboard.

Quarterback Philip Rivers led the Chargers 84 yards on seven plays before hooking up with tight end Antonio Gates in the front left corner of the end zone for a 14-yard touchdown. The score was Gates’ third of the season.

Rivers was 4-for-4 on the drive for 70 yards and a touchdown. Rivers connected with three different receivers, including wide receiver Seyi Ajirotutu, who signed with the team three days ago, for a 28-yard gain on third-and-five.

“I was trying to do anything I could to catch that ball,” Ajirotutu said. “It was kind of a trial and error run, but I knew that it was important that I make the catch and get the first down in the first series of the game. I’m just happy that I was able to get to the ball and that we were able to get a touchdown on that drive. I was looking forward to seeing what this team and this offense could do.”

The Chargers went on to score 24 more points to defeat the Chiefs 31-13. Rivers finished the game 18-for-20 for 220 yards and two touchdowns. Rivers’ 90 completion percentage was a team-record and only the sixth time in NFL history a quarterback has completed 90 percent or better in a game.

“It was a combination of things, when you can score on your first drive and go 87 yards, it sets a good tempo,” said head coach Norv Turner.