SAN DIEGO -- A few thoughts on the San Diego Chargers' 13-6 win over the Oakland Raiders on Sunday at Qualcomm Stadium.
What it means: The Chargers ended a three-game losing streak by defeating the Raiders for the second time this season. With the Denver Broncos losing to the St. Louis Rams, the Chargers (6-4) are a game behind the Broncos (7-3) and the Kansas City Chiefs (7-3) in the AFC West.
Defense stymies Raiders: The return of linebackers Manti Te'o, Jeremiah Attaochu and Melvin Ingram provided a spark for San Diego’s defense, which kept the Raiders out of the end zone. The Chargers finally played better on third down. Heading into Sunday’s contest, San Diego’s defense was the worst in the NFL in third-down efficiency. But the Chargers held the Raiders to 3-of-15 on third downs. The Raiders punted nine times.
Solid return for Mathews: In his first game after missing seven with an MCL knee strain, running back Ryan Mathews shook off some rust early. He finished with 70 rushing yards on 16 carries, including a long of 20 yards.
Stock watch -- Down: For a second straight game, Philip Rivers struggled to get into a rhythm. Rivers finished 22-of-34 for 193 yards, including a 22-yard touchdown pass to Malcom Floyd. Rivers did not throw an interception and was sacked twice. The Chargers have scored one touchdown in their past eight quarters of play.
Game ball: Inside linebacker Kavell Conner was all over the field and finished with a combined nine tackles, including a tackle for loss and a sack against the Raiders.
What’s next: The Chargers play the second of back-to-back games at Qualcomm Stadium on Nov. 23 against the Rams.
