The San Diego Chargers fell to 5-8 on the season after losing to the Carolina Panthers, 28-16. A nightmare first half and five total turnovers contributed to the loss.
Stat of the Game:Hunter Henry's TD catch at the end of the first half was his sixth in last nine games.
Play of the Game:Philip Rivers took advantage of a defensive offsides, recognizing the free play and launching deep towards Tyrell Williams. Number 16 corralled the pass and gained 46 yards to set the Bolts up at the Carolina seven. Three plays later, Rivers connected with Hunter Henry for the Bolts' sole touchdown of the day.
Turning Point:Facing a first down from the San Diego four, Cam Newton tossed a pass in the direction of Kelvin Benjamin; however, Trovon Reed cut in front of the receiver and picked the ball off. Reed then ran the ball back 100 yards for what was initially ruled a score, but the call was overturned and the Bolts got the ball at the Carolina three. Three plays later, Rivers was sacked in the end zone for a safety.
It Was Over When: Down 12 with 4:03 left in the game, the Chargers decided to go for it on fourth down from their own 21. Rivers stepped back and looked for Tyrell Williams; however, Kurt Coleman picked the ball off essentially sealing the win for the home team.
Odds and Ends
The Chargers outgained the Panthers in total yardage 278 to 272. They held a 220-146 advantage through the air while Carolina had a 126-58 edge on the ground.
Dontrelle Inman and Kenneth Farrow both led in receptions (six) while Inman led all Chargers receivers with 71 yards.
Denzel Perryman led the Chargers defense with seven total tackles including two tackles for loss. Joey Bosa and Chris Landrum each recorded a sack.
Trovon Reed's interception continued the Bolts' streak of having a takeaway in every game this season.
King Dunlap served as an honorary captain.
Inactives for the Chargers included CB Brandon Flowers, RB Ronnie Hillman, TE Asante Cleveland, C Max Tuerk, T Tyreek Burwell, WR Geremy Davis and NT Ryan Carrethers.
