Skip to content

Chargers take down 49ers in overtime thriller

Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

The San Diego Chargers rallied to beat the San Francisco 49ers 38-35 in overtime in a wild game. 

The Chargers were down the entire game before tying it with 29 seconds remaining and winning on a 40-yard Nick Novak field goal in overtime.

It was a huge win for the Chargers, who now sit just outside the playoff picture at 9-6 and will need help from Pittsburgh and Baltimore.

Here's what you need to know: 

  • Frank Gore started fast with a dynamite 52-yard touchdown run on the game's first drive. It was his longest run since 2011.
  • The Chargers lost their fourth starting center of the season when Chris Watt suffered a leg injury.
  • The 49ers led 28-7 at halftime, only to allow the Chargers to creep back into the game to eventually tie it 35-35 with under 30 seconds remaining.
  • Michael Crabtree played just six snaps in the first three quarters, leaving in the second quarter before returning due to the 49ers being so thin at receiver.
  • Colin Kaepernick ran for 151 yards, including a sublime 90-yard touchdown.
  • Phillip Rivers threw three interceptions but rallied his team in the second half, ending the game with 356 yards passing and four touchdowns.
  • The game went to overtime when Rivers threw a late touchdown to Malcom Floyd.

Daily Newsletter

Get the latest trending sports news daily in your inbox