 |
| Stephen Dunn / Getty Images |
| LaDainian Tomlinson did not play a down this preseason. |
It was over when
Who needs starters? The Chargers have played the entire preseason without LaDainian Tomlinson, and benched Philip Rivers and Antonio Gates for the finale. Not that it mattered as the Chargers rolled in what was the NFL equivalent of playing with one arm tied behind your back. The 49ers added a cosmetic touchdown late, but never really threatened.
Game ball
Chargers first-round draft pick Craig Davis caught a 40-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Charlie Whitehurst. The Chargers will count on Davis to be a deep threat to help stretch defenses. 49ers running back Thomas Clayton had 84 rushing yards on 14 attempts.
Key stat
49ers quarterback Alex Smith was only 3-of-8 for 23 yards and an interception in his limited work. Not to panic over a preseason game, but you have to figure the 49ers coaching staff was expecting a little bit more in his final tune-up before the regular season.
Noteworthy
The Chargers ended the preseason with three consecutive victories.
