It all came down to one big play. Or two big plays in one. The interception and fumble of Tom Brady's pass by Marlon McCree late in the 4th quarter on 4th down. The Chargers were up 8 points and could have run down the clock with a long drive but instead the Patriots got a first down on the Charger's 32 yard line and preceded to score a touchdown and game-tying 2 point conversion. On a fourth down, Marlon should have batted the pass to the ground, but in the heat of the moment he picked it and tried to return it.
LaDainian Tomlinson's play was one of the only mistake-free aspects of the game. He played great with 123 rushing, two touchdowns and 64 yards receiving. His 58 yard run on a screen pass set up another touchdown by Michael Turner. LT showed his talent as he made the Patriots wiff on several tackles. Even with his big numbers, he probably should have been used more late in the game.
Except for McCree's fumble, most of the Chargers mistakes (muffed punt return, personal fouls) happened in the horrible 3rd quarter. They kept shooting themselves in the foot and to top it off the receivers dropped at least 6 passes in the game. Even with all those mistakes, it was still the Chargers game to win after LT's touchdown in the 4th quarter. Tom Brady was able to capitalize on McCree's final gift to him and lead his team to victory with a field goal with 1:10 to go. Philip Rivers was able to drive down for a final long-distance field goal try into the wind at the end but Nate Kaeding missed it.
After the game, LT got very angry at several Patriot players who went overboard in their celebration, stomping on the Charger's logo at midfield and mocking Shawne Merriman's sack dance. He went out to mid-field and confronted them. He was pissed at their lack of class.
I am now rooting for the Saints to win the Super Bowl against the Colts. Here's to a big next year for the Chargers!!!! I hope Marty Schottenheimer comes back next year as the head coach.
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