LiveBlog: Chargers-Colts, first quarter

Chris Littmann breaks down the ongoing action of the Chargers-Colts AFC Division Playoff matchup:
End of the first quarter
The Chargers trail, 7-0, and LaDainian Tomlinson has just nine yards on four carries. That quarter was all about the Indy offense, but here’s a chance to open the second quarter with a long, steady dose of Tomlinson to tie the game.
:54
Manning hits Marvin Harrison on a crossing route for his first catch since Oct. 22. It makes Manning 11-of-11 passing, but the play ends with a fumble that is recovered by the Chargers at their own 22-yard line. Marlon McCree is credited with the recovery on the hit by Antonio Cromartie.
3:00
I haven’t seen anyone move the ball with such ease since ... well, I guess it was last night, but the Patriots look quite impressive in doing exactly what New England did: taking the short stuff that the opposition gives them.
The ruling on the field stands
I watched the angles over and over again like everyone else. I only came to the conclusion that I’m glad I didn’t have to make the call. There was some degree of juggling the ball, but I guess it wasn’t enough to prove he lost control. Colts take over at the 24.
6:20
Here I was, all prepared to start singing the praises of Philip Rivers, but he’s picked along the sideline by Colts corner Kelvin Hayden. This one looks like it’s guaranteed to go to replay. If the play stands, the Colts will have it at their own 24.
6:30
The Chargers are on the move, but still no touches for Gates...
And while we wait
I’m still sort of digesting the Double Stuff Racing League commercial from Oreos.
9:13, continued
The Colts take Darren Sproles out of the equation on the touchback. Any time they can limit the return game’s effectiveness, it will be a small victory for Indy.
[img=http://i.tsn.com/i/photos/20080113/85661.jpg]
9:13
Manning to Dallas Clark for the 25-yard touchdown. What was more impressive was that Manning got that throw off with Shaun Phillips hanging on him. How about Manning’s Tom Brady impersonation? Here’s the drive: 6-of-6 passing for 79 yards and a touchdown, including a healthy dose of check down passes to Joseph Addai. Colts lead the Chargers, 7-0.
10:35
Just like last night, we’ve already got an early attempt on fourth down. The Patriots and Jaguars each converted on fourth down attempts last night in the first half. This time, the line buys enough time for Reggie Wayne to curl back to the inside and catch a first-down ball.
And while we wait
Just watched the replay and I thought Luis Castillo might have taken an unpleasant shot to the, shall we say mid-section, when Addai was coming out to catch the screen pass. Update: It looks like it was more the rib/hip area, but not the ankle everyone was so concerned about.
14:55 remaining
The Colts will get the ball first. My eyes will be locked on Marvin Harrison and Tony Ugoh. The Chargers bring a strong rush.
In the interest of full disclosure
I’m watching this game on a 42-inch Vizio. This should not be interpreted as favoritism for the Chargers. Plus, I refuse to watch my TV with a helmet on, no matter what the doctors say.
Injury report
Antonio Gates will start for the Chargers. Marvin Harrison is active for the Colts. No word on how much either guy will go. While most don’t expect much from Gates with the dislocated toe, Harrison remains the ultimate question mark. We haven’t seen him in months.↵