Manning, who was nearly indestructible at home, threw four interceptions, two of which were returned for touchdowns as the Colts skidded to a 6-5 record. He also threw for 285 yards and two touchdowns on 31 for 48 attempts.
Manning took much of the blame for the loss.
“We're not in the business of pointing out and saying, 'This was the problem on that particular one; this guy didn't do that right.' It really all falls on my shoulders,” Manning said, according to the Colts website. “I just have to do a better job of making certain we're executing a lot better.”
The Colts running game was nonexistent, as evidenced by how many pass attempts Manning had to make. The Colts only had 13 running plays, and the Colts could only muster out 23 rushing yards.
The injuries that have marred the Colts for much of the season were also a factor coming into the game. Starting running back Joseph Addai is out, and so are tight-end and end-zone favorite Dallas Clark, receiver Anthony Gonzalez, and wideout receiver Austin Collie.
Despite the tough loss, the Colts are still tied for first in their division, the AFC South, with the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Due credit should be given to the Chargers defense who visibly frustrated Manning in throwing twice as many interceptions as touchdowns.
“We definitely stopped the run early,” San Diego defensive tackle Antonio Garay said, according to the Chargers website. “We took advantage of that and made them one-dimensional tonight. It definitely worked to our advantage.”
With the win, the Chargers (6-5) are only one game behind the Kansas City Chiefs, the AFC West leaders. After a 2-5 start, the Chargers have won their last four.
“It was a complete win for us. I thought our guys played in a very, very physical manner,” Charges head coach Norv Turner said, according to their website. “Obviously when you’re scoring on defense and getting takeaways it’s a good feeling.”
Quarterback Philip Rivers was efficient, throwing for 185 yards, no interceptions, but also no touchdowns on 19 for 23 attempts. The Colts weren’t able to stop the Chargers rushing attack. Mike Tolbert rushed for 103 yards and a touchdown on 26 carries.
