SAN DIEGO — While the lasting memory of the Broncos’ 39-38 win over San Diego in the teams’ first meeting this season is probably referee Ed Hochuli’s blown call late in the contest, one shouldn’t forget about Chargers scatback Darren Sproles.
Sproles had only 53 yards rushing in the game, but caught two passes for 72 yards, including a 66-yard score, and returned five kickoffs for 192 yards, with a 103-yard score. For the year, the former Kansas State star has caught four touchdown passes and averaged 26 yards per kickoff return.
It was a 32-yard scoring pass, one similar to the play against Denver, which gave the Chargers some breathing room en route to last weekend’s 41-24 victory over Tampa Bay.
“They have tendency charts, and they know when he comes into the game there are certain things we like to do,” coach Norv Turner said regarding the Broncos’ preparation for Sproles. “We try to mix it up, but he’s explosive and our guys do a great job on screens.”
By the numbers.
In Sunday’s 41-24 victory over Tampa Bay, a number of Chargers achieved individual milestones.
Former Northern Colorado star Vincent Jackson caught seven passes for 111 yards, the latter figure lifting him to 1,051 yards on the season, surpassing 1,000 yards for the first time in his career. Antonio Gates’ two scores gave him 50 touchdowns for his career, reaching that mark faster than any tight end in NFL history.
Also, running back LaDainian Tomlinson, thought to be in the midst of a down season, rushed for 90 yards, giving him 1,014 on the year and marking the eighth straight season he has topped 1,000.
Anthony Cotton, The Denver Post
