#TBT to the last Patriots-Chargers matchup
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| AP Photo |
It’s playoff time, Patriots Nation! Before the Los Angeles Chargers come into town this weekend for the AFC divisional-round game on Sunday, we’re looking back to the last time the two teams met.
LAST TIME OUT
The New England Patriots and the Los Angeles Chargers last met on Oct. 29, 2017. The Patriots pulled away with a 21-13 victory to move to 6-2 on the year.
Despite having troubles in the red zone (New England was 1-for-4), the Patriots’ one touchdown, four Stephen Gostkowski field goals and a safety helped seal the win.
With 8:30 left in the game, the Chargers cut the Patriots lead to 18-13. After New England added Gostkowski’s fourth field goal, LA got the ball back for one more chance. However, Rivers’ pass was intercepted at the goal line by Jonathan Jones with one second remaining.
NOTEWORHTY
Rob Gronkowski and Tom Brady connected on a first-quarter touchdown, marking the 72nd time the two of them have scored – and the most touchdowns among any NFL duo since Gronk joined the league in 2010.
THE STATS
Brady was 32-of-47 for 333 yards and one touchdown, while Philip Rivers was 17-of-30 for 212 yards, one touchdown and one pick.
Dion Lewis led the way for the Patriots’ ground game – as he carried the ball 15 times for 44 yards. Mike Gillislee was close in line, with 11 rushes for 34 yards.
Melvin Gordon led the way for the Chargers’ rushing efforts with 14 carries, 132 yards and one score.
New England’s passing game was widespread this game as there were four receivers with over 50+ yards. James White led the way with five catches for 85 yards, while Rex Burkhead added seven catches for 68 yards, Chris
Hogan had five for 60 and Rob Gronkowski had five for 57.
Travis Benjamin and Keenan Allen led the way for the Chargers’ receiving efforts. Benjamin had five catches for 64 yards and one score, while Allen added four catches for 61 yards.
The Patriots’ defense was led by Kyle Van Noy and Elandon Roberts who had six total tackles apiece, including one tackle for loss each.
Adrian Phillips and Hayes Pullard had big defensive days for the Chargers, providing 12 and 10 total tackles, respectively. Each added one tackle for loss apiece as well. Desmond King, Joey Bosa and Darius Philon each got to Brady for three sacks total on the day.
AND NOW
The stage for the AFC divisional round game is set. The New England Patriots will take on the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday, Jan. 13, 2019. Gametime is scheduled for 1:05pm from Gillette Stadium.
Follow Megan on Twitter: @carnahanmegan
