Rivers’ TD pass to Jackson gives Chargers 10-7 lead over Broncos after first quarter

Rivers’ TD pass gives Chargers 10-7 lead

SAN DIEGO — Philip Rivers threw a 3-yard touchdown pass to Vincent Jackson with 6 seconds left in the first quarter to give the San Diego Chargers a 10-7 lead over the undefeated Denver Broncos on Monday night.

The Chargers ran 22 plays to only six for the Broncos in what seemed more like fast-break basketball than football.

Rivers, in fact, was about to be dragged down by Elvis Dumervil when he threw a two-handed chest pass to LaDainian Tomlinson for a 21-yard gain on San Diego’s second drive.

It was one of four passes by Rivers for at least 13 yards on the drive, which started at the San Diego 6-yard line.

The drive stalled, though, leading to some sideline drama involving Tomlinson.

Tomlinson wasn’t on the field on third-and-goal from the 2, when Darren Sproles was stuffed for no gain. Coach Norv Turner had a chagrined look on his face as the Chargers had to settle for a 20-yard field goal by Nate Kaeding.

Tomlinson walked down the sideline toward the bench and flipped his helmet. When he and Turner spoke a few minutes later, L.T. didn’t appear to be looking at the coach.

Eddie Royal returned the ensuing kickoff 93 yards for a touchdown to give the Broncos a 7-3 lead.

Denver safety Brian Dawkins hurt a hamstring and was listed as questionable to return.