Chargers hold off Raiders for second straight win
It was over when ...
(Denis Poroy / Associated Press)
Oakland WR Johnnie Lee Higgins attempted to lateral before completing a catch on fourth-and-20 and the ball dropped to the ground, which allowed San Diego to take over on downs with 54 seconds left.
Game ball
Shawne Merriman has endured a disappointing season so far, but he may have turned it around against the Raiders. After failing to record a single sack in his first six games, Merriman brought down JaMarcus Russell twice and was a constant presence in Oakland's backfield.
Key Stat
One of the Chargers' biggest weaknesses this year has been their inability to convert in the red zone, but that was not the case Sunday against the Raiders. San Diego scored touchdowns on three of its four red zone trips.
Noteworthy
Raiders rookie Matt Shaughnessy had his first career sack. ... Oakland lost its 13th consecutive game to San Diego. ... Chargers RB LaDainian Tomlinson scored two touchdowns and all three of his scores this year have come against the Raiders. ... San Diego LB Tim Dobbins left the game in the first half with a leg injury.
