The New Orleans Saints picked up their first win of the season against the San Diego Chargers on Sunday night, but not without help from San Diego and the referees, according to Bolts From The Blue.
Chargers Vs. Saints, Week 5: San Diego Chargers, referees hand Saints win
Penalty after penalty, miscue after miscue, the Chargers shot themselves in the foot. Linebacker Melvin Ingram was responsible for one such self-defeating penalty as he was called for driving his helmet into Drew Brees. The hit, however, had little to do with the Saints quarterback throwing an interception which was returned for a touchdown. Instead, New Orleans' drive continued and the Saints found the end zone.
On the Chargers final drive as they attempted to knot the score at 31 and force overtime, San Diego was called for multiple penalties, including holding and offensive pass interference calls.
Philip Rivers did his best, but every pass completed for more than 10 yards was called back due to phantom calls that even the NBC announcers were ashamed of.
Bolts From The Blue also criticizes San Diego head coach Norv Turner for abandoning the run in the second half. Ryan Matthews, who was finding a rhythm running the ball earlier, “warmed up a spot on the bench.”
The Chargers look to bounce back in an AFC West matchup with the Denver Broncos on Monday night next week.
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