The San Diego Chargers couldn't sweep the Denver Broncos as they fell 27-19 in the Mile High City.
Stat of the Game:
Late in the first half, Philip Rivers passed Dan Fouts for most career pass attempts in franchise history.
Play of the Game:
On 3rd-and-10 from the Denver 14, Rivers dropped back and fired a dart into the end zone. Travis Benjamin made a leaping, one-handed grab and corralled the ball for the touchdown. Not only was the catch impressive, but the touchdown capped a 13-play drive that started at their own two-yard line.
Turning Point:
In the fourth quarter after the Broncos scored and the Chargers had to punt, the Broncos offense once again took to the field. After a 60-yard punt from Drew Kaser set the Broncos up at their own two, Denver eventually got to their own 16. However, on third down, Casey Hayward took a tipped pass into the end zone for a pick-six. While the Bolts' two-point conversion was no good, they brought the score within five, 24-19.
It Was Over When:
Attempting to muster a comeback with 1:16 left in the game, on fourth down, Rivers dropped back and tossed a pass in the direction of Melvin Gordon. The pass fell incomplete and the Bolts turned the ball over on downs. Denver subsequently took knees to run the clock out and walk out victorious.
Odds and Ends
The Chargers outgained the Broncos 369-324 in total yardage. The Bolts held a 123-57 advantage on the ground, however Denver had the edge through the air, 267-246.
Travis Benjamin's touchdown was the first touchdown given up to a WR by the Broncos since Week 1.
Melvin Gordon (111 rush yards) was the first 100+ yard rusher the Broncos allowed since Week 2 of 2015.
Dontrelle Inman led all receivers in yardage (72) while he, Gates and Gordon all notched four receptions on the day.
Jatavis Brown led all defenders with nine total tackles. Casey Hayward returned an interception for a touchdown and is currently second in the NFL with four interceptions this season.
Former Bronco Orlando Franklin served as an honorary captain.
Inactives for the Chargers included CB Craig Mager, S Jahleel Addae, TE Asante Cleveland, C Max Tuerk, OT Tyreek Burwell, G Kenny Wiggins and OLB Jerry Attaochu.
