1989 San Diego Chargers season

NFL team season November 2013 March 2026 San Diego Chargers 1989 6–10 5th AFC West Dan Henning Steve Ortmayer Alex Spanos Jack Murphy Stadium 3 WR Anthony Miller DE Leslie O'Neal DE Lee Williams 1 DE Lee Williams (2nd team) Did not qualify Chargers seasons thumb|right|Former Bears quarterback Jim McMahon was brought in to boost the Chargers' passing offense. The 1989 San Diego Chargers season was the franchise's 20th season in the National Football League (NFL), its 30th overall and the first season under head coach Dan Henning, whose predecessor, Al Saunders, had been fired shortly after the previous season. The team matched their 6–10 record from 1988. Their season followed a similar pattern to the previous year, with their six wins arriving in three pairs. San Diego brought in a high-profile free agent in quarterback Jim McMahon, but it was their defensive unit that saw a big improvement, ranking sixth in the league,1989 San Diego Chargers Statistics https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sdg/1989.htm pro-football-reference.com and never conceding more than 26 points in a game after week 2. On the field, McMahon's form was indifferent; off it, he repeatedly clashed with journalists. He was released shortly after the season finished. Second-year receiver Anthony Miller had a strong year with 1,252 yards. The running game lost Gary Anderson to a holdout, which lasted the entire season; one of his replacements, 7th-round draft pick Marion Butts, was the only player from San Diego's 1989 draft class to make the Pro Bowl during his career. The combination of a strong defense and mediocre offense led to several close finishes - thirteen games were decided by seven points or fewer, including the last twelve in a row. Before the NFL adopted the two-point conversion in 1994, this was tied for the most one-score games in a single season.Most games decided by seven points or fewer through 1993 https://stathead.com/tiny/aMR7e stathead.com Offseason Head coaching change Al Saunders was fired the day after the 1988 season ended, after two-and-a-half seasons in charge. He had compiled a 17–22 record, with no playoff appearances. Saunders had publicly criticised the personnel decisions of Steve Ortmayer, the Chargers' director of football operations, creating personal friction that potentially accelerated his departure.Search for successor will stress continuity https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77640838/saunders-out-19-dec-1988/ Escondido Times-Advocate 19 December 1988The San Diego Chargers Monday announced the firing of Al Saunders https://www.upi.com/Archives/1988/12/19/The-San-Diego-Chargers-Monday-announced-the-firing-of/4060851596800/ UPI Marty Schottenheimer, who had recently resigned as Cleveland Browns head coach, was among those interviewed for the San Diego vacancy.Ortmayer plans interviews with Viking coaches https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77642336/schottenheimer-rumour-11-jan-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 9 February 1988 Schottenheimer signed for the Chiefs instead, though he would become the Chargers' head coach 13 years later.Marty Schottenheimer Record https://www.pro-football-reference.com/coaches/SchoMa0.htm pro-football-reference.com Other candidates included Chicago assistant Johnny Roland, Washington assistant Dan Henning, Illinois head coach Mike White, and the Chargers' own defensive coordinator, Ron Lynn.Charger coach search keeps dragging on https://www.newspapers.com/clip/86677100/coaching-search-1-feb-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 1 February 1989Article continued https://www.newspapers.com/clip/86677481/coach-search-1-feb-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 1 February 1989 On February 9, Henning was named to the role, bringing an end to a long search - the Chargers had been the first in the league to fire their previous head coach, but the last to appoint a replacement. While serving as an offensive assistant with Washington, Henning's teams had won Super Bowls in 1982 and 1987. He had struggled as a head coach in between those jobs, compiling a record of 22-41-1 in Atlanta from 1983 to 1986, with a losing record in each of the four seasons.Henning is the man for Chargers https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77642947/henning-in-9-feb-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 9 February 1989Article continued https://www.newspapers.com/clip/86678766/henning-signs-9-feb-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 9 February 1989 Ortmayer spoke of Henning's Super Bowl rings as a factor in the hire, as well as his willingness to retain the incumbent Chargers assistant coaches.Henning II https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77643873/ortmayer-on-henning-10-feb-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 10 February 1988 Henning had previously been in San Diego as a quarterback, in 1966, when he made his solitary appearance for a professional team.Dan Henning Player Stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HennDa00.htm pro-football-reference.com Departures and arrivals Having passed for 2,388 yards the previous season, third worst in the league,Fewest passing yards, 1988 season https://stathead.com/tiny/5cIl3 stathead.com San Diego sought a new quarterback during the offseason. Chargers' owner Alex Spanos had mentioned Jim McMahon as a possible acquisition as early as March.Chargers pursuing 'Skin QBs https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77523278/mcmahon-i-22-march-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 22 March 1989 McMahon had won a Super Bowl ring four seasons previously, but had proven injury-prone since then.McMahon injury problems https://www.newspapers.com/clip/86685594/mcmahon-injury-troubles-2-jan-1989/ Hackensack Record 2 January 1989 San Diego were still linked with McMahon during the draft,Trades fail to bring help in a hurry https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77453702/grossman-draft-24-april-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 24 April 1989 and eventually worked out a deal on August 18, with McMahon's relationship with Chicago head coach Mike Ditka having deteriorated substantially. Chicago received a conditional pick in the following year's draft.Outrageous! McMahon a Charger https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77523651/mcmahon-ii-18-august-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 18 August 1989 This proved to be a second-round pick.1990 draft trades https://www.prosportstransactions.com/football/DraftTrades/Years/1990.htm prosportstransactions.com Two quarterbacks from the previous season, meanwhile, left the team. Babe Laufenberg, who had started the first six games, was released in April;Chargers Release Laufenberg https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77464938/laufenberg-out-18-april-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 18 April 1989 Mark Malone, starter in eight games, was re-signed in July but released in August after McMahon was acquired.Malone, 2 rookies sign with Chargers https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77464230/malone-re-signed-22-july-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 22 July 1989Malone Signs with the Jets https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77464661/malone-out-22-august-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 22 August 1989 The running back position also saw significant upheaval, prompted by Gary Anderson's season-long holdout. Anderson, who was coming off a 1,000-yard season, asked that his wages be increased from $400,000 per season to $1 million. The Chargers' highest offer was $700,000. As the holdout dragged on, San Diego made lower offers, while refusing Anderson's trade requests.Anderson saga has untold cost https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77468097/anderson-holdout-v-1-october-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 1 October 1989 By October 21, the player had sold his home in San Diego, resolving not to play there again.Anderson visits to say goodbye https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77468345/anderson-holdout-vi-21-oct-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 21 October 1989 After sitting out the entire year, he signed for the Buccaneers in April 1990.Bernstine moves to backfield https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77511976/anderson-holdout-vii-april-22-1990/ Escondido Times-Advocate 22 April 1990 Also at the running back position, the versatile Lionel James was cut shortly before the season started,Train's career finally just ran out of steam https://www.newspapers.com/clip/86787837/lionel-james-29-aug-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 29 August 1989Article continued https://www.newspapers.com/clip/86787992/lionel-james-29-aug-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 29 August 1989 backup Barry Redden was traded to Cleveland, and former Super Bowl winner Timmy Smith came in as a free agent only to be cut.Chargers Trade Redden, Release Timmy Smith https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77515965/redden-and-smith-4-september-1989/ North County Times 4 September 1989 8th-year running back Darrin Nelson came in as a mid-season trade. He arrived from Dallas in exchange for a mid-round draft pick, after stating he'd sooner retire than play for the Cowboys. Wide receiver Phil McConkey, a former Super Bowl winner, was another mid-season pickup - his five games in San Diego proved to be the last of his NFL career.Phil McConkey Stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/McCoPh00.htm pro-football-reference.com There were also significant changes in the offensive line. Ken Dallafior (traded to Detroit)Ken Dallafior traded https://www.newspapers.com/clip/86684549/dallafior-to-lions-6-april-1989/ Los Angeles Times 6 April 1989 and Dan Rosado (waived)Dan Rosado waived https://www.newspapers.com/clip/86684885/dan-rosado-waived-8-sep-1989/ Los Angeles Times 8 September 1989 left after starting a combined 24 games in 1988,Ken Dallafior Stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/D/DallKe20.htm pro-football-reference.comDan Rosado Stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/R/RosaDa20.htm pro-football-reference.com while Dennis McKnight, who had started every non-strike game since 1984,Dennis McKnight Stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/McKnDe20.htm pro-football-reference.com missed the entire season after rupturing a tendon in his knee in the final preseason game, and didn't play for the Chargers again.Victory didn't come cheap https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77517632/mcknight-injury-3-september-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 3 September 1989 Newcomers to the line included tackles Joel Patten and Brett Miller, who were picked up from the Colts and Falcons respectively.Chargers sign big free-agent tackle https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77532780/joel-patten-16-feb-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 16 February 1989Chargers sign two ex-Falcons https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77532990/brett-miller/ Escondido Times-Advocate 14 March 1989 On defense, 1988 holdout Chip Banks went to Indianapolis,Banks will get his chance ... as a Colt https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77531238/nelson-trade-18-oct-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 18 October 1989 and Keith Browner was released after failing a drug test.Browner disputes drug test result https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77521051/browner-drug-test-8-sep-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 8 September 1989 Browner had started 15 games at linebacker in 1988.Keith Browner Stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/BrowKe24.htm pro-football-reference.com The Chargers added Jim Collins, a former Pro Bowl linebacker.Chargers close to signing Smith https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77571673/jim-collins-1-april-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 1 April 1989 The Chargers also released punter Ralf Mojsiejenko and kickers Steve DeLine and Vince Abbott.Chargers give boot to their punter https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77521803/mojsiejenko-and-deline-30-august-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 30 August 1989Charger Special Teams II https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77572654/bahr-30-august-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 30 August 1989 Fourteen-year veteran Chris Bahr beat out DeLine and Abbott for the kicking job in training camp, while Lewis Colbert lasted only two games as the new punter before being replaced by CFL veteran Hank Ilesic.Colbert is kicked off the Chargers https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77576607/ilesic-20-september-1989/ North County Times 20 September 1989 NFL draft 1989 NFL draft San Diego made ten selections in the 1989 draft.1989 San Diego Chargers Draftees https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sdg/1989_draft.htm pro-football-reference.com Their first pick (eighth overall) was defensive end Burt Grossman, from the University of Pittsburgh, described by Henning as "the best downline pass rusher in this draft". The Chargers came close to timing out and forfeiting their pick, as several possible deals to trade down fell through - San Diego were trying to obtain a free agent quarterback, with both McMahon and Washington backup Stan Humphries mentioned as possibilities. Humphries would become a Charger four years later.Stan Humphries Overview https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HumpSt00.htm pro-football-reference.com Grossman held out until August 25, but ultimately signed a five-year deal worth over $3 million.Player's talk turns to action https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77466489/grossman-signs-25-august-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 25 August 1989 In the second round, San Diego picked center Courtney Hall. Long-time center Don Macek had missed the final 11 games of the previous season through injury;https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1988-10-04-sp-3471-story.html?_amp=true Charger Notebook Los Angeles Times 4 October 1988 Hall was inserted into the starting line-up in week 1, and didn't miss a game until 1994.Courtney Hall Career Game Log https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HallCo22/gamelog/ pro-football-reference.com With McMahon not yet acquired, the Chargers gave up three picks to select a quarterback. They worked a trade with the Giants, swapping a third-, fourth- and seventh-round pick for New York's second-round choice. With this, they selected Billy Joe Tolliver from Texas Tech.Draft report continued https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77455523/1989-draft-24-april-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 24 April 1989 Further down in the draft, San Diego found a future Pro Bowler in running back Marion Butts. With Anderson holding out, Butts was pressed into immediate action in 1989, and finished as the Chargers' top rusher. He would gain over 4,000 yards in 5 seasons with the team.Marion Butts Stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/ButtMa00.htm pro-football-reference.com During training camp, eighth-round pick Dana Brinson made a sufficiently good impression as a runner and receiver that he took Lionel James' spot on the roster.'Little Train' axed https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77515372/james-out-27-aug-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 27 August 1989 1989 San Diego Chargers 1 8 Burt Grossman Defensive end Pittsburgh no yes 2 37 Courtney Hall Center Rice no yes 2 51 Billy Joe Tolliver Quarterback Texas Tech no yes 5 120 Elliot Smith Defensive back Alcorn State no yes 7 183 Marion Butts Running back Florida State yes yes 7 195 Terrence Jones Quarterback Tulane no no 8 204 Dana Brinson Wide receiver Nebraska no yes 9 231 Pat Davis Tight end Syracuse no no 10 260 Ricky Andrews Linebacker Washington no no 11 287 Victor Floyd Running back Florida State no yes no Personnel Staff 1989 San Diego Chargers Chairman of the board and President – Alex Spanos Vice chairman – Dean Spanos Director of football operations – Steve Ortmayer Director of player personnel – Chet Franklin Director of pro personnel – Rudy Feldman Head coach – Dan Henning Offensive coordinator/offensive line – Larry Beightol Assistant head coach/Quarterbacks – Ted Tollner Offensive backs – Bobby Jackson Receivers – Charlie Joiner Tight ends – Ed White Defensive coordinator – Ron Lynn Defensive line – Gunther Cunningham Linebackers – Mike Haluchak Secondary – Jim L. Mora Special teams – Joe Madden Coaching assistant – LeCharls McDaniel 1989 San Diego Chargers Media Guide Strength and Conditioning – Chris Hartman Roster 1989 San Diego Chargers 47 8 3 15 David Archer quarterback  9 Jim McMahon 11 Billy Joe Tolliver y 35 Marion Butts y 20 Darrin Nelson 43 Tim Spencer American football 89 Anthony Allen wide receiver 87 Quinn Early 86 Jamie Holland KR 21 Phil McConkey PR 83 Anthony Miller wide receiver, born 1965 KR 80 Wayne Walker wide receiver y PR 88 Arthur Cox American football 31 Craig McEwen 85 Andy Parker American football 81 Mark Walczak 70 James FitzPatrick American football G/T 53 Courtney Hall y C 62 Don Macek C 74 Brett Miller American football T 78 Joel Patten T 65 David Richards American football G 76 Broderick Thompson G 95 Joe Campbell American football, born 1966 DE 92 Burt Grossman y DE 97 George Hinkle DE 69 Les Miller American football NT 75 Joe Phillips American football NT 98 Gerald Robinson American football DE 99 Lee Williams American football DE 58 David Brandon American football OLB 55 Jim Collins linebacker ILB 51 Cedric Figaro ILB 91 Leslie O'Neal OLB 50 Gary Plummer American football ILB 54 Billy Ray Smith Jr. OLB 59 Ken Woodard OLB 44 Martin Bayless SS 23 Roy Bennett gridiron football CB 32 Michael Brooks defensive back y FS 22 Gill Byrd CB 25 Vencie Glenn FS 24 Lester Lyles American football SS 34 Elvis Patterson CB 28 Elliot Smith American football y CB/S  3 Chris Bahr K  8 Hank Ilesic P 82 Rod Bernstine TE IR 46 Joe Caravello TE IR 84 Chris Gannon y TE IR 37 Napoleon McCallum RB Military 60 Dennis McKnight G IR 30 Sam Seale CB IR 13 Mark Vlasic QB PUP 67 Larry Williams American football C/G PUP 33 Dana Brinson y RB 27 Victor Floyd y RB 63 Stacy Searels C/G 1989 San Diego Chargers https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sdg/1989_roster.htm pro-football-reference.com 47 8 Preseason San Diego struggled to a 20–3 defeat in their preseason opener, turning the ball over five times against the Cowboys. Quarterbacks Billy Joe Tolliver, David Archer and Mark Malone combined for 20 completions from 42 attempts, for 198 yards. The Chargers managed only a Chris Bahr field goal, wasting a strong defensive performance that saw Dallas gain only 206 yards. Rookie Marion Butts led all rushers with 12 carries for 61 yards.Johnson, Cowboys keep it conservative https://www.newspapers.com/clip/87457934/chargers-3-20-cowboys-14-aug-1989/ Fort Worth Star-Telegram 14 August 1989Match report continued https://www.newspapers.com/clip/87457823/chargers-3-20-cowboys-14-aug-1989/ Fort Worth Star-Telegram 14 August 1989 Jim McMahon joined the Chargers the day before their second game, which was against his old club, Chicago. McMahon featured only briefly, with Tolliver throwing two touchdown passes in a 24–7 win.Chargers throw McMahon in https://www.newspapers.com/clip/80289345/chargers-24-7-bears-20-august-1989/ Santa Rosa Press Democrat 20 August 1989 McMahon saw more extensive action in the next game, a 17–14 loss to the defending Super Bowl champions, San Francisco. He struggled, completing 7 of 13 passes for 26 yards and an interception. Tolliver again threw two touchdowns, with Butts and Anthony Miller scoring after the 49ers went 17–0 ahead. Steve DeLine was short on a potentially game-tying 53-yard field goal try late in the game.Tolliver stays in the fight https://www.newspapers.com/clip/80290034/chargers-14-17-49ers-24-aug-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 24 August 1989Match report continued https://www.newspapers.com/clip/80290562/chargers-14-17-49ers-24-august-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 24 August 1989 The final preseason game had a dramatic finish. Despite a 49-yard touchdown pass from McMahon to Miller, the Chargers trailed 20–7 after a Cardinals' field goal with 9:38 to play. Tolliver then led a 65-yard touchdown drive, with Butts scoring from a yard out. Bahr, who had earlier missed two field goals, then recovered his own onside kick, but Tolliver was intercepted. After forcing a punt, San Diego took over on their own 39 with 1:49 to play, and began a 15-play drive that saw Tolliver convert two fourth downs, before breaking a collarbone while scrambling out of bounds at the Phoenix 4 yard line with a second left. McMahon came back in and found Quinn Early for the game-winner as time expired.Chargers rally, but Tolliver suffers injury https://www.newspapers.com/clip/80293297/chargers-21-20-cardinals-2-sep-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 2 September 1989Match report continued https://www.newspapers.com/clip/80292921/chargers-21-20-cardinals-2-sep-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 2 September 1989 As well as Tolliver, offensive lineman Dennis McKnight ruptured during a tendon in his knee during the game, and missed the whole regular season.McKnight injury https://www.newspapers.com/clip/86737162/dennis-mcknight-injury-5-sep-1989/ Camden Courier-Post 5 September 1989 WeekDateOpponentResultRecordVenueAttendance 1 August 13 Dallas Cowboys L 3–20 0–1 Jack Murphy Stadium 40,203 2 August 19 at Chicago Bears W 24–7 1–1 Soldier Field 60,167 3 August 23 at San Francisco 49ers L 14–17 1–2 Candlestick Park 54,471 4 September 1 Phoenix Cardinals W 21–20 2–2 Jack Murphy Stadium 41,453 1989 NFL Preseason Schedule https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1989/preseason.htm profootballreference.com Regular season Overview Jim McMahon struggled at quarterback,Change of scene no better https://www.newspapers.com/clip/86745664/mcmahon-ii-29-oct-1989/ Wilmington News Journal 29 October 1989Jets at Chargers https://www.newspapers.com/clip/86744978/mcmahon-i-1-dec-1989/ Melville Newsday 1 December 1989Bottom line is dotted line https://www.newspapers.com/clip/86746270/mcmahon-iii-30-jan-1990/ Escondido Times-Advocate 30 January 1990 and was benched for five games, including the final four of the year. He passed for under 100 yards in three of his eleven starts, and finished the year with 2,132 yds, 10 touchdowns and 10 interceptions.Jim McMahon 1989 Game Log https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/McMaJi00/gamelog/1989/ pro-football-reference.com His relations with the media were frequently frosty: when asked by a reporter whether he was in pain, McMahon responded, "Only when I look at you".Quotes https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77579499/mcmahon-quote-26-dec-1989/ North County Times 26 December 1989 On another occasion, he blew his nose in the direction of a reporter who had brought up San Diego's two-minute offense.Henning name McMahon starter https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77580851/mcmahon-nose-2-november-1989/ North County Times 2 November 1989 Dan Henning released McMahon shortly after the season ended.Chargers bounce bad-boy McMahon https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77581102/mcmahon-out-26-april-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 26 April 1990 Rookie backup Billy Joe Tolliver won two of his five starts, but his passer rating of 57.9 was well below the league average of 75.6.NFL average passer rating by season https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/NFL/passing.htm pro-football-reference.com Despite the indifferent quarterbacking play, second-year wide receiver Anthony Miller performed well enough that his teammates voted him the Chargers' MVP for the season; he had 75 catches for 1,252 yards and 10 touchdowns, ranking at least eleventh in the league in each statistic.1989 NFL Receiving https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1989/receiving.htm pro-football-reference.com His mark for receptions was twice what any of his teammates posted, his yardage triple any teammate, and his touchdown tally was double the combined total of every other Charger.Most receptions, Chargers, 1989 https://stathead.com/tiny/ZzGpS stathead.comMost receiving yards, Chargers, 1989 https://stathead.com/tiny/cu51d stathead.comMost receiving touchdowns, Chargers, 1989 https://stathead.com/tiny/MngTd stathead.com While Gary Anderson's holdout meant that the running game had lost a 1,000-yard rusher from 1988, rookie Marion Butts proved a pleasant surprise for his head coach,Butts searches for daylight, shuns nightlife https://www.newspapers.com/clip/86777648/butts-and-anderson-24-dec-1989/ Los Angeles Times 24 December 1989Article continued https://www.newspapers.com/clip/86776990/butts-and-anderson-24-dec-1989/ Los Angeles Times 24 December 1989 scoring seven touchdowns in his first six games.Marion Butts 1989 Game Log https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/ButtMa00/gamelog/1989/ pro-football-reference.com He had a scoring drought mid-season, and missed time through injury,Wounded runners fault Steelers' tactics https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77590127/butts-knee-21-november-1989/ North County Times 21 November 1989 but still led the team with 683 yards at 4 yards per carry, while his total of nine rushing touchdowns ranked seventh in the league.1989 NFL Rushing https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1989/rushing.htm pro-football-reference.com Tim Spencer added 521 yards, and the team ranked near the middle of the league overall. San Diego's defense ranked ninth in the league for points allowed, and sixth for yardage. They benefitted from a strong defensive front seven,Jets try to keep O'Brien protected https://www.newspapers.com/clip/86784901/front-seven-i-3-dec-1989/ St. Louis Post-Dispatch 31 December 1989Scouting report https://www.newspapers.com/clip/86785034/front-seven-ii-3-dec-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 3 December 1989Chargers vs. Redskins https://www.newspapers.com/clip/86785161/front-seven-iii-10-dec-1989/ Newport News Daily Press 10 December 1989 where Leslie O'Neal shifted to the outside linebacker position to make room for rookie defensive end Burt Grossman. O'Neal, back to full fitness following his 1986 knee injury, had 12 1 2 sacks, while Grossman had 10 and Lee Williams led the AFC with 14.The Leslie and Lee Show https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77632902/defensive-line-27-dec-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 27 December 1989 The trio's combined total of 36 1 2 helped San Diego rank third in the league with 48 sacks.1989 NFL Opposition and Defensive Statistics https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1989/opp.htm#all_passing pro-football-reference.com Inside linebacker Gary Plummer led the team with 146 tackles, while Gill Byrd's seven interceptions were the most by a Charger, and tied for fourth-best in the league.1989 NFL Defense https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1989/defense.htm pro-football-reference.com On special teams, Chris Bahr made 17 of 25 kicks, ranking 22nd in the league with a 68% conversion rate.1989 NFL Kicking & Punting https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1989/kicking.htm pro-football-reference.com The Chargers struggled to cover kick returns, giving up the fifth highest average yardage per punt return with 10.5 and second highest per kickoff return with 21.9.1989 NFL Opposition & Defensive Stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1989/opp.htm#all_returns pro-football-reference.com Anthony Miller, in addition to his successes on offense, averaged 25.4 yards on 21 kickoff returns, fourth best in the league, while running one back for a touchdown for the second consecutive season.1989 NFL Kick & Punt Returns https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1989/returns.htm pro-football-reference.comAnthony Miller Kick & Punt Returns https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/MillAn00.htm#all_returns pro-football-reference.com Schedule Week Date Opponent Result Record Venue Attendance Recap 1 September 10 at Los Angeles Raiders L 14–40 0–1 Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum 40,237 Recap 2 September 17 Houston Oilers L 27–34 0–2 Jack Murphy Stadium 42,013 Recap 3 September 24 Kansas City Chiefs W 21–6 1–2 Jack Murphy Stadium 40,128 Recap 4 October 1 at Phoenix Cardinals W 24–13 2–2 Sun Devil Stadium 44,201 Recap 5 October 8 at Denver Broncos L 10–16 2–3 Mile High Stadium 75,222 Recap 6 October 15 Seattle Seahawks L 16–17 2–4 Jack Murphy Stadium 50,079 Recap 7 October 22 New York Giants L 13–20 2–5 Jack Murphy Stadium 48,566 Recap 8 October 29 at Seattle Seahawks L 7–10 2–6 Kingdome 59,691 Recap 9 November 5 Philadelphia Eagles W 20–17 3–6 Jack Murphy Stadium 47,019 Recap 10 November 12 Los Angeles Raiders W 14–12 4–6 Jack Murphy Stadium 59,151 Recap 11 November 19 at Pittsburgh Steelers L 17–20 4–7 Three Rivers Stadium 44,203 Recap 12 November 26 at Indianapolis Colts L 6–10 4–8 Hoosier Dome 58,822 Recap 13 December 3 New York Jets L 17–20 4–9 Jack Murphy Stadium 38,954 Recap 14 December 10 at Washington Redskins L 21–26 4–10 RFK Stadium 47,693 Recap 15 December 17 at Kansas City Chiefs W 20–13 5–10 Arrowhead Stadium 40,623 Recap 16 December 24 Denver Broncos W 19–16 6–10 Jack Murphy Stadium 50,524 [ Recap]Note: Intra-division opponents are in bold text. Game summaries All game reports use the Pro Football Researchers' gamebook archive as a source.http://www.profootballresearchers.org/index.html PFRA | PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALL RESEARCHERS ASSOCIATION www.profootballresearchers.org Week 1: at Los Angeles Raiders San Diego Chargers 1989 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week One: San Diego Chargers at Los Angeles Raiders – Game summary September 10 1:00 p.m. PDT Chargers 7 0 7 0 Raiders 7 14 7 12 Memorial Coliseum, Los Angeles, California 40,237 65 °F 1, relative humidity 80%, wind 10 mph Jim Tunney NBC Charlie Jones and Merlin Olsen Box score First quarter RAI – Vance Mueller 26-yard pass from Jay Schroeder (Jeff Jaeger kick), 12:10. Raiders 7–0. Drive: 4 plays, 76 yards, 2:50. SDG – Marion Butts 50-yard run (Chris Bahr kick), 6:45. Tied 7–7. Drive: 9 plays, 85 yards, 5:25. Second quarter RAI – Mervyn Fernandez 4-yard pass from Steve Beuerlein (Jeff Jaeger kick), 8:35. Raiders 14–7. Drive: 15 plays, 78 yards, 7:33. RAI – Marcus Allen 1-yard run (Chris Bahr kick), 12:10. Raiders 21–7. Drive: 9 plays, 49 yards, 4:05. Third quarter RAI – Willie Gault 39-yard pass from Steve Beuerlein (Jeff Jaeger kick), 12:46. Raiders 28–7. Drive: 1 play, 39 yards, 0:06. SDG – Marion Butts 1-yard run (Chris Bahr kick), 10:06. Raiders 28–14. Drive: 4 plays, 43 yards, 1:38. Fourth quarter RAI – Jeff Jaeger 22-yard field goal, 10:27. Raiders 31–14. Drive: 7 plays, 56 yards, 3:57. RAI – Safety, Stefon Adams tackled Victor Floyd in end zone, 10:17. Raiders 33–14. RAI – Vance Mueller 1-yard run (Chris Bahr kick), 5:13. Raiders 40–14. Drive: 8 plays, 37 yards, 5:04. Top passers SDG – Jim McMahon – 7/18, 91 yards RAI – Steve Beuerlein – 15/22, 206 yards, 2 TD Top rushers SDG – Marion Butts – 9 rushes, 64 yards, 2 TD RAI – Marcus Allen – 13 rushes, 51 yards, TD Top receivers SDG – Anthony Miller – 3 receptions, 58 yards RAI – Willie Gault – 4 receptions, 131 yards, TD Jim McMahon struggled on his San Diego debut as the Chargers were well beaten.Chargers wonder what's going on after 40–14 loss https://www.newspapers.com/clip/87450265/chargers-14-40-raiders-11-sep-1989/ Los Angeles Times 11 September 1989Match report continued https://www.newspapers.com/clip/87450439/chargers-14-40-raiders-11-sep-1989/ Los Angeles Times 11 September 1989 On the game's first play from scrimmage, a hit by Leslie O'Neal on Jay Schroeder forced the Raider quarterback to leave the game, but not until after he'd capped a 4-play, 76-yard drive with a touchdown pass. McMahon converted third downs with his arm and his legs during the answering drive; San Diego reached a 3rd and 1 at midfield, from where rookie Marion Butts burst through the middle and scored a 50-yard touchdown on only his third NFL carry. O'Neal sacked backup QB Steve Beuerlein on the next drive to force a punt, but Los Angeles came back with three straight touchdown drives, and Beuerlein had scoring throws on two of them. With San Diego's offense struggling to move the ball consistently, it was 28–7 early in the 3rd quarter.1989 week 1 gamebook, Chargers at Raiders 10 September 1989 San Diego were then forced to punt, but Chris Gannon recovered a Tim Brown fumble on the return. Taking over at the Raider 43, McMahon immediately hit Anthony Miller for 38 yards down the left sideline, and Butts scored from a yard out three plays later. With David Archer in at quarterback, the Chargers could add no further points. Los Angeles scored three times in quick succession in the final quarter to turn the game into a runaway: a field goal was followed by Victor Floyd muffing the kickoff, and being tackled in the end zone for a safety; the Raiders received the ensuing free kick, and added a touchdown in short order. McMahon completed 7 of 18 passes, for 91 yards. Butts carried nine times, gaining 64 of San Diego's 171 rushing yards and scoring two touchdowns. Week 2: vs. Houston Oilers San Diego Chargers 1989 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week Two: Houston Oilers at San Diego Chargers – Game summary September 17 Oilers 3 17 14 0 Chargers 7 7 0 13 Jack Murphy Stadium, San Diego, California 42,013 70 °F 1, relative humidity 81%, wind 10 mph Howard Roe NBC Tom Hammond and Joe Namath Box score First quarter HOU – Tony Zendejas 24-yard field goal, 8:59. Oilers 3–0. Drive: 10 plays, 30 yards, 5:46. SDG – Anthony Miller 63-yard pass from Jim McMahon (Chris Bahr kick), 5:05. Chargers 7–3. Drive: 4 plays, 87 yards, 1:31. Second quarter SDG – Marion Butts 1-yard run (Chris Bahr kick), 14:44. Chargers 14–3. Drive: 1 play, 1 yard, 0:04. HOU – Ernest Givins 14-yard pass from Warren Moon (Tony Zendejas kick), 11:18. Chargers 14–10. Drive: 8 plays, 68 yards, 3:18. HOU – Warren Moon 1-yard run (Tony Zendejas kick), 3:41. Oilers 17–14. Drive: 2 plays, 19 yards, 1:18. HOU – Tony Zendejas 32-yard field goal, 0:00. Oilers 20–14. Drive: 6 plays, 54 yards, 1:03. Third quarter HOU – Drew Hill 5-yard pass from Warren Moon (Tony Zendejas kick), 11:21. Oilers 27–14. Drive: 6 play, 35 yards, 3:27. HOU – Alonzo Highsmith 16-yard run (Tony Zendejas kick), 3:16. Oilers 34–14. Drive: 3 plays, 30 yards, 1:36. Fourth quarter SDG – Marion Butts 1-yard run (pass failed), 9:04. Oilers 34–20. Drive: 11 plays, 80 yards, 6:01. SDG – Anthony Miller 10-yard pass from Jim McMahon (Chris Bahr kick), 0:55. Oilers 34–27. Drive: 12 plays, 80 yards, 2:05. Top passers HOU – Warren Moon – 21/35, 235 yards, 2 TD SDG – Jim McMahon – 27/45, 389 yards, 2 TD, 3 INT Top rushers HOU – Alonzo Highsmith – 8 rushes, 50 yards, TD SDG – Rod Bernstine – 2 rushes, 24 yards Top receivers HOU – Drew Hill – 6 receptions, 69 yards, TD SDG – Anthony Miller – 7 receptions, 162 yards, 2 TD A run of 31 unanswered Oilers points proved too much for San Diego to overcome.A Sunday of mistakes https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77699232/chargers-27-34-oilers-18-sep-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 18 September 1989Match report continued https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77699055/chargers-27-34-oilers-18-sep-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 18 September 1989 Following a Tony Zendejas field goal, McMahon was intercepted on the Chargers' first play from scrimmage. The defense forced a punt, and Cris Dishman was flagged for unnecessary roughness to keep the next Charger drive alive. The play after the penalty, McMahon found Miller for a 63-yard touchdown. The receiver was open at the Houston 25, and wrong-footed the last defender before scoring easily. McMahon threw incomplete on 4th down in the red zone the next time San Diego had the ball, but they soon made another chance - Elvis Patterson blocked a punt, which rolled out of bounds at the Oiler's 1 yard line. Butts scored off right tackle a play later.1989 week 2 gamebook, Oilers at Chargers 17 September 1989 Down 14–3, Houston quickly retaliated when Warren Moon connected with Ernest Givins for a 14-yard touchdown. When Floyd fumbled later in the half, Moon ran the go-ahead score in himself. McMahon completed four passes on the next drive, but his throw on 2nd and 15 from the Oiler 24 was tipped and intercepted - Houston added another field goal as time expired in the half. In the 3rd quarter, a Butts fumble and McMahon interception were turned into a pair of Oiler touchdowns, giving them a 34–14 lead. San Diego fought back in the final quarter. McMahon converted a pair of third downs with completions to Rod Bernstine and Quinn Early, before Butts scored his fourth touchdown in two games on 3rd and goal from the 1, completing an 80-yard drive. Archer botched the hold on the extra point, keeping the deficit at fourteen. Houston then recovered an onside kick and ran the clock down to only three minutes before Zendejas missed a 24-yard chip shot wide left. The Chargers again drove 80 yards for a touchdown; Miller had catches of 12 yards (to convert a 4th and 10), and 10 yards (for a touchdown, with 55 seconds to play). Lester Lyles then appeared to have recovered an onside kick for the Chargers, but after a five-minute consultation, officials ruled the ball had been illegally touched before travelling ten yards. The kick was retaken, and the Oilers recovered, clinching their win. McMahon was 27 of 45 for 389 yards, two touchdowns and three interceptions. His completions and yardage would stand as single game career-highs.Jim McMahon Career Game Log https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/McMaJi00/gamelog/ pro-football-reference.com San Diego outgained Houston 413–367, but committed all five of the game's turnovers. Week 3: vs. Kansas City Chiefs San Diego Chargers 1989 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week Three: Kansas City Chiefs at San Diego Chargers – Game summary September 24 1:00 p.m. PDT Chiefs 3 3 0 0 Chargers 7 0 7 7 Jack Murphy Stadium, San Diego, California 40,128 87 °F 1, relative humidity 85%, wind 10 mph Ben Dreith NBC Tom Hammond and Joe Namath Box score First quarter SDG – Tim Spencer 9-yard run (Chris Bahr kick), 3:57. Chargers 7–0. Drive: 2 plays, 17 yards, 0:46. KAN – Nick Lowery 23-yard field goal, 0:23. Chargers 7–3. Drive: 9 plays, 76 yards, 3:34. Second quarter KAN – Nick Lowery 31-yard field goal, 1:04. Chargers 7–6. Drive: 9 plays, 46 yards, 5:43. Third quarter SDG – Rod Bernstine 1-yard pass from Jim McMahon (Chris Bahr kick), 8:05. Chargers 14–6. Drive: 11 plays, 74 yards, 6:55. Fourth quarter SDG – Rod Bernstine 32-yard run (Chris Bahr kick), 3:31. Chargers 21–6. Drive: 8 plays, 78 yards, 5:13. Top passers KAN – Steve DeBerg – 16/28, 177 yards, 5 INT SDG – Jim McMahon – 11/18, 96 yards, TD Top rushers KAN – Christian Okoye – 16 rushes, 112 yards SDG – Rod Bernstine – 5 rushes, 73 yards, TD Top receivers KAN – Todd McNair – 7 receptions, 83 yards SDG – Anthony Miller – 2 receptions, 55 yards San Diego intercepted Steve DeBerg five times as they posted their first win of the year.Chargers put a roadblock on Chiefs https://www.newspapers.com/clip/87451151/chargers-21-6-25-sep-1989/ Los Angeles Times 25 September 1989Match report continued https://www.newspapers.com/clip/87451009/chargers-21-6-chiefs-25-sep-1989/ Los Angeles Times 25 September 1989 Miller's 35-yard reception gave the Chargers a 1st and goal at the 2 early on, but four straight rushing plays ended with Butts being stuffed a yard short of the goal line, turning the ball over on downs. Vencie Glenn soon gave his team another chance by intercepting a tipped pass and returning it 31 yards to the Chief 17. Tim Spencer had back-to-back carries of eight and nine yards at right tackle, the latter for a touchdown. In reply, Christian Okoye broke off a 59-yard run, setting up a field goal. Gill Byrd intercepted an underthrown bomb from DeBerg to stop a later Kansas City threat, but the Chiefs managed a further field goal, and trailed by just one point at halftime.1989 week 3 gamebook, Chiefs at Chargers 24 September 1989 The Chargers opened the second half with an 11-play, 74-yard touchdown drive. Rod Bernstein, who played as both tight end and running back during the game, rushed for 12 yards early in the drive; Butts added 14-yard gains on consecutive plays, moving the ball to the 1, from where Bernstine pulled in McMahon's pass. On the next two Chief drives, Byrd had his second interception of the game, and strong safety Martin Bayless claimed his first as a Charger. San Diego's offense went three-and-out after both turnovers, and Kansas City drove into the red zone. O'Neal's third down sack forced a field goal try, and kicker Nick Lowery missed from 40 yards out to keep it a two-score game. Miller's 20-yard catch then helped San Diego move the ball to the Chief 32, from where Bernstine ran off tackle for the clinching touchdown, 3:31 from time. Lester Lyles bagged the final Charger interception shortly afterwards. In contrast to the previous week, McMahon only passed for 96 yards, while his running game gained 200 yards on 37 carries. Bernstine (73 yards), Butts (62) and Spencer (57), split the bulk of the workload between them. San Diego won the turnover battle 5–0 a week after losing it by the same margin. Week 4: at Phoenix Cardinals San Diego Chargers 1989 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week Four: San Diego Chargers at Phoenix Cardinals – Game summary October 1 2:00 p.m. MDT Chargers 0 0 7 17 Cardinals 0 3 10 0 Sun Devil Stadium, Tempe, Arizona 44,201 86 °F 1, relative humidity 21%, wind 7 mph Johnny Grier NBC Jay Randolph and Lyle Alzado Box score First quarter No scoring plays. Second quarter PHX – Al Del Greco 36-yard field goal, 0:15. Cardinals 3–0. Drive: 12 plays, 54 yards, 3:30. Third quarter PHX – Al Del Greco 33-yard field goal, 8:33. Cardinals 6–0. Drive: 7 plays, 26 yards, 3:25. SDG – Anthony Miller 16-yard pass from Jim McMahon (Chris Bahr kick), 6:36. Chargers 7–6. Drive: 6 plays, 82 yards, 1:57. PHX – Roy Green 59-yard pass from Gary Hogeboom (Al Del Greco kick), 5:29. Cardinals 13–7. Drive: 2 plays, 67 yards, 1:07. Fourth quarter SDG – Marion Butts 2-yard run (Chris Bahr kick), 13:53. Chargers 14–13. Drive: 12 plays, 72 yards, 6:31. SDG – Billy Ray Smith 15-yard fumble return (Chris Bahr kick), 12:50. Chargers 21–13. SDG – Chris Bahr 37-yard field goal, 4:17. Chargers 24–13. Drive: 4 plays, 7 yards, 0:20. Top passers SDG – Jim McMahon – 15/23, 188 yards, TD PHX – Steve Beuerlein – 22/43, 261 yards, TD, 2 INT Top rushers SDG – Marion Butts – 9 rushes, 26 yards, TD PHX – Earl Ferrell – 10 rushes, 38 yards Top receivers SDG – Anthony Miller – 3 receptions, 66 yards, TD PHX – J. T. Smith – 11 receptions, 123 yards Billy Ray Smith made two critical plays as San Diego took control of a close game in the final quarter.Chargers 'D' sizzles as Cardinals tumble https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77700275/chargers-24-13-cardinals-2-oct-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 2 October 1989Match report continued https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77700496/chargers-24-13-cardinals-2-october-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 2 October 1989 The Charger offense was unproductive in the first half, gaining 80 yards and three first downs while punting five times. Phoenix also struggled to move the ball, but managed a 54-yard field goal drive shortly before halftime. After a second Cardinal field goal, San Diego finally sprang into life, covering 82 yards in just 6 plays - Miller's 47-yard reception moved the ball into Phoenix territory, and his 16-yard touchdown put his team ahead. Only two plays later, Gary Hogeboom threw a 57-yard bomb to Roy Green, restoring the Cardinal lead at 13–7.1989 week 4 gamebook, Chiefs at Chargers 1 October 1989 McMahon had completions of 20 and 16 yards on the next drive, as well as a 14-yard carry. After his incompletion on 3rd and goal from the four, Chris Bahr came on for a field goal try. He made the kick, but Phoenix were guilty of a hold, giving San Diego a fresh set of downs. Butts scored on the next play, and the Chargers were ahead to stay, fourteen minutes from time. Two plays later, Byrd forced a fumble which Smith scooped up and returned 15 yards for a touchdown. Smith continued to make an impact as the final quarter wore on, breaking up a fourth down pass in Charger territory and recovering a second fumble to set up a field goal. The Cardinals' last big chance ended when Lee Williams sacked Hogeboom on 4th and 3 from the Charger 8, three minutes from time. Byrd and Bennett each intercepted a pass in the game, and San Diego had a 4–0 edge in turnovers. Week 5: at Denver Broncos San Diego Chargers 1989 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week Five: San Diego Chargers at Denver Broncos – Game summary October 8 2:00 p.m. MDT Chargers 3 0 7 0 Broncos 0 6 0 10 Mile High Stadium, Denver, Colorado 75,222 55 °F 1, relative humidity 34%, wind 8 mph Jerry Seeman NBC Jay Randolph and Joe Namath Box score First quarter SDG – Chris Bahr 39-yard field goal, 6:53. Chargers 3–0. Drive: 13 plays, 58 yards, 8:07. Second quarter DEN – David Treadwell 46-yard field goal, 13:25. Tied 3–3. Drive: 16 plays, 51 yards, 8:28. DEN – David Treadwell 18-yard field goal, 1:57. Broncos 6–3. Drive: 15 plays, 79 yards, 8:05. Third quarter SDG – Marion Butts 2-yard run (Chris Bahr kick), 10:18. Chargers 10–6. Drive: 6 plays, 28 yards, 3:20. Fourth quarter DEN – David Treadwell 27-yard field goal, 7:51. Chargers 10–9. Drive: 7 plays, 13 yards, 2:20. DEN – Bobby Humphrey 17-yard run (David Treadwell kick), 1:03. Broncos 16–10. Drive: 11 plays, 74 yards, 3:22. Top passers SDG – Jim McMahon – 10/19, 116 yards, INT DEN – John Elway – 19/35, 199 yards, INT Top rushers SDG – Tim Spencer – 15 rushes, 78 yards DEN – Bobby Humphrey – 23 rushes, 102 yards, TD Top receivers SDG – Rod Bernstine – 2 receptions, 45 yards DEN – Vance Johnson – 6 receptions, 65 yards Given the chance to join Denver stop the AFC West,NFL Standings, week 4, 1989 https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/standings.cgi?week=4&year=1989&wk_league=NFL pro-football-reference.com the Chargers instead slipped two games back with a narrow defeat.Chargers run but can't hide in final quarter https://www.newspapers.com/clip/87451938/chargers-10-16-broncos-9-oct-1989/ Los Angeles Times 9 October 1989Match report continued https://www.newspapers.com/clip/87451763/chargers-10-16-broncos-9-oct-1989/ Los Angeles Times 9 October 1989 There were only six drives in total in the first half, with the bulk of the time being taken up by a trio of eight-minute field goal drives - one by San Diego, two by Denver. The Chargers forced a punt on the opening possession of the second half, which Dana Brinson returned 52 yards to the Bronco 28. Six plays later, Butts scored from the 2-yard line. Broncos running back Bobby Humphrey broke off a 40-yard run later in the 3rd quarter, but Byrd intercepted John Elway when he tried a long pass on the next play.1989 week 5 gamebook, Chargers at Broncos 8 October 1989 Tim Spencer lost a fumble with ten minutes to play, which Denver turned into a third field goal. After a Charger punt, Denver drove to the San Diego 37, where they faced a 4th and 1 at the two-minute warning, trailing 10–9. The Broncos converted, Elway faking a handoff up the middle and instead giving to Steve Sewell, who swept left and eluded O'Neal's dive before turning the corner and gaining seven yards. Humphrey scored the winning points two plays later with a 16-yard run. There were 57 seconds still to play, but McMahon threw two incompletions followed by a game-sealing interception. Week 6: vs. Seattle Seahawks San Diego Chargers 1989 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week Six: Seattle Seahawks at San Diego Chargers – Game summary October 15 1:00 p.m. PDT Seahawks 10 0 7 0 Chargers 7 3 0 6 Jack Murphy Stadium, San Diego, California 50,079 66 °F 1, relative humidity 67%, wind 8 mph Red Cashion NBC Charlie Jones and Merlin Olsen Box score First quarter SDG – Arthur Cox 3-yard pass from Jim McMahon (Chris Bahr kick), 10:25. Chargers 7–0. Drive: 8 plays, 83 yards, 4:35. SEA – Curt Warner 1-yard run (Norm Johnson kick), 5:15. Tied 7–7. Drive: 11 plays, 74 yards, 5:10. SEA – Norm Johnson 50-yard field goal, 0:04. Seahawks 10–7. Drive: 7 plays, 11 yards, 3:31. Second quarter SDG – Chris Bahr 29-yard field goal, 8:44. Tied 10–10. Drive: 10 plays, 81 yards, 6:20. Third quarter SEA – John L. Williams 6-yard pass from Dave Krieg (Norm Johnson kick), 9:35. Seahawks 17–10. Drive: 3 plays, 16 yards, 0:50. Fourth quarter SDG – Marion Butts 2-yard run (kick blocked), 4:14. Seahawks 17–16. Drive: 10 plays, 82 yards, 4:45. Top passers SEA – Dave Krieg – 14/24, 139 yards, TD, 2 INT SDG – Jim McMahon – 25/39, 286 yards, TD, 2 INT Top rushers SEA – John L. Williams – 11 rushes, 54 yards SDG – Tim Spencer – 16 rushes, 49 yards Top receivers SEA – John L. Williams – 6 receptions, 53 yards, TD SDG – Anthony Miller – 7 receptions, 116 yards Crucial blocked kicks led to a one-point loss for the Chargers.Errors pile up for Chargers https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77701275/chargers-16-17-seahawks-16-oct-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 16 October 1989Match report continued https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77701426/chargers-16-17-seahawks-16-october-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 16 October 1989 Both offenses began well: Jamie Holland drew a 39-yard pass interference penalty to account for nearly half of an 82-yard touchdown drive (Arthur Cox scoring), before Seattle drove from their own 26 all the way to a 4th and goal from the 1. Dave Krieg then threw incomplete, but Smith was called for a hold to prolong the drive, and Curt Warner scored on the next play. McMahon was then intercepted when Dana Brinson bobbled a pass, and Seattle capitalised with a field goal. Miller's 44-yard catch was the biggest play of the next drive, as San Diego went 81 yards and Chris Bahr levelled the scores at 10–10 with a 29-yard kick. Late in the first half Byrd intercepted Krieg, but McMahon lost a fumble as San Diego threatened to move into field goal range.1989 week 6 gamebook, Seahawks at Chargers 15 October 1989 Brinson fumbled a punt early in the second half, and Seattle only had to drive 16 yards to take a seven-point lead. Vencie Glenn and Seahawk Eugene Robinson had interceptions on back to back plays early in the 4th quarter, before San Diego forced a punt and took over at their own 18 with nine minutes to play. They drove 82 yards in 10 plays, with rookie receiver Wayne Walker's 31-yard catch the biggest play. Butts finished the drive with a 2-yard touchdown run, but Bahr's game-tying extra point attempt was blocked by the Seahawks with 4:45 to play. San Diego had an immediate chance to make amends, as David Brandon recovered a fumble on the ensuing kickoff, but the offense backed up from the Seattle 18 to the 33, and Bahr's 51-yard attempt was met by a second block. After forcing a punt, the Chargers had one final chance, starting from their own 10 with 1:51 to play. A 43-yard catch by Walker helped them reach a 2nd and 4 at the Seattle 27, before a holding penalty backed them up. McMahon threw incomplete with 10 seconds to play, then was sacked by Rufus Porter and the clock ran out. Miller finished with 7 catches for 116 yards. Week 7: vs. New York Giants San Diego Chargers 1989 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week Seven: New York Giants at San Diego Chargers – Game summary October 22 1:00 p.m. PDT Giants 3 3 7 7 Chargers 0 3 3 7 Jack Murphy Stadium, San Diego, California 48,566 68 °F 1, relative humidity 80%, wind 8 mph Dale Hamer CBS Pat Summerall and John Madden Box score First quarter NYG – Raul Allegre 21-yard field goal, 8:52. Giants 3–0. Drive: 13 plays, 72 yards, 6:08. Second quarter SDG – Chris Bahr 26-yard field goal, 4:01. Tied 3–3. Drive: 11 plays, 45 yards, 5:40. NYG – Raul Allegre 40-yard field goal, 0:00. Giants 6–3. Drive: 14 plays, 56 yards, 4:01. Third quarter NYG – Ottis Anderson 4-yard run (Raul Allegre kick), 6:31. Giants 13–3. Drive: 9 plays, 48 yards, 5:21. SDG – Chris Bahr 30-yard field goal, 3:07. Giants 13–6. Drive: 7 plays, 43 yards, 3:24. Fourth quarter NYG – Ottis Anderson 4-yard run (Raul Allegre kick), 6:30. Giants 20–6. Drive: 12 plays, 87 yards, 7:13. SDG – Vencie Glenn 81-yard fumble return (Chris Bahr kick), 2:27. Giants 20–13. Top passers NYG – Phil Simms – 22/33, 232 yards, INT SDG – Jim McMahon – 12/27, 133 yards, INT Top rushers NYG – Ottis Anderson – 27 rushes, 96 yards, 2 TD SDG – Tim Spencer – 11 rushes, 34 yards Top receivers NYG – Odessa Turner – 5 receptions, 47 yards SDG – Darrin Nelson – 3 receptions, 38 yards San Diego's offense was kept out of the end zone as they slipped to another defeat.Little offensive success comes from dull game plan https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77701811/chargers-13-20-giants-23-october-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 23 October 1989Match report continued https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77701957/chargers-13-20-giants-23-oct-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 23 October 1989 The Chargers managed only two first downs on their first three drives, and trailed 3–0 midway through the 2nd quarter. McMahon kept their next drive alive with when he barely ran for enough to convert a 4th and 3 from the Giants 30, allowing Bahr to tie the scores with a 26-yard kick. New York appeared to have answered with a touchdown, but Mark Bavaro's catch was ruled out by penalty, and Raul Allegre made his second field goal as time expired in the half.1989 week 7 gamebook, Giants at Chargers 22 October 1989 The Chargers had the ball to start the second half, but McMahon was intercepted at his own 48. Ottis Anderson had two big four-yard runs on the ensuing drive - one to convert a 4th and 1, the other for a touchdown. A field goal pulled San Diego back within seven, and a sack by Williams on Phil Simms forced the Giants to punt from near their own goal line. The Chargers took over on the New York 44, but could muster only a single yard before being forced to punt. Simms then led an 87-yard touchdown drive, and Anderson scored again with 6:28 to play. After three McMahon incompletions, a fake punt failed to fool New York, and the Giants took over in Charger territory. The San Diego defense pulled the team back into the game, Smith punching the ball free for Glenn to recover and return 81 yards for an easy touchdown with 2:19 on the clock. The Giants then went three-and-out, and San Diego had a last chance to tie, taking over at their own 46 with 1:46 still to work with. Their last drive soon stalled, however, comprising two penalties, a sack and three incompletions before New York took over on downs and ran the clock out. San Diego were outgained 327–179. Taken together with his 103-yard interception return two seasons earlier, Glenn owned the club records for longest touchdowns on both fumble returns and interception returns up to this point.Chargers longest interception return touchdown through 1989 https://stathead.com/tiny/K1Y2k stathead.comChargers longest fumble return touchdown through 1989 https://stathead.com/tiny/xCI02 stathead.com Week 8: at Seattle Seahawks San Diego Chargers 1989 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week Eight: San Diego Chargers at Seattle Seahawks – Game summary October 29 1:00 p.m. PST Chargers 0 0 0 7 Seahawks 3 0 0 7 Kingdome, Seattle, Washington 59,691 Dome Gene Barth NBC Charlie Jones and Merlin Olsen Box score First quarter SEA – Norm Johnson 27-yard field goal, 2:03. Seahawks 10–7. Drive: 9 plays, 40 yards, 3:27. Second quarter No scoring plays. Third quarter No scoring plays. Fourth quarter SDG – Arthur Cox 14-yard pass from Jim McMahon (Chris Bahr kick), 1:53. Seahawks 17–16. Drive: 10 plays, 55 yards, 5:33. SEA – Brian Blades 21-yard pass from Dave Krieg (Norm Johnson kick), 0:40. Seahawks 10–7. Drive: 8 plays, 71 yards, 1:13. Top passers SDG – Jim McMahon – 9/12, 82 yards, TD SEA – Dave Krieg – 27/49, 311 yards, TD, 2 INT Top rushers SDG – Marion Butts – 7 rushes, 44 yards SEA – Curt Warner – 15 rushes, 40 yards Top receivers SDG – Wayne Walker – 3 receptions, 36 yards SEA – Brian Blades – 10 receptions, 117 yards, TD A change at quarterback did little to spark the Chargers, as they lost a game that saw only three points scored through the first 58 minutes.Krieg's late toss to Blades cuts Chargers off at the pass, 10–7 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/87453137/chargers-7-10-seahawks-30-oct-1989/ Los Angeles Times 30 October 1989 Rookie Billy Joe Tolliver was given the nod over McMahon, but he led the team to only three first downs in eight possessions, as the Chargers were outgained 273–53 through three-quarters. They were kept in the game by a resilient defensive performance, with Patterson and Smith producing interceptions in their own territory, and an off day from Seattle kicker Norm Johnson, who made only one attempt out of four.1989 week 8 gamebook, Chargers at Seahawks 29 October 1989 McMahon entered the game in the 4th quarter, and the offense improved. They reached Seattle territory for the first time, before a penalty on James Fitzpatrick wiped out a third down conversion, and they were forced to punt. Burt Grossman sacked Dave Krieg on the next drive, and the Chargers got the ball back in good field position at their own 45. McMahon's 22-yard pass to Miller opened the drive, and San Diego drove inside the Seattle 10 before penalties brought them to a 3rd and goal at the 14. McMahon found Arthur Cox in the end zone, the tight end diving to make the catch at full stretch. Up 7–3 with 1:53 to play, San Diego were unable to prevent a Seattle response. Krieg converted a 4th and 3 before finding Brian Blades for a 21-yard touchdown, 40 seconds from time. San Diego reached their own 46 in response, before an unusual finish - McMahon's pass was batted back to him, he caught it and was tackled at midfield as time expired. Tolliver completed 6 of 17 passes for 41 yards and an interception. The Chargers sacked Krieg five times, with O'Neal and Grossman claiming two each. Week 9: vs. Philadelphia Eagles San Diego Chargers 1989 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week Nine: Philadelphia Eagles at San Diego Chargers – Game summary November 5 1:00 p.m. PST Eagles 0 7 0 10 Chargers 7 0 10 3 Jack Murphy Stadium, San Diego, California 47,019 62 °F 1, relative humidity 82%, wind 8 mph Dick Jorgensen CBS Tim Brant and Dan Jiggetts Box score First quarter SDG – Anthony Miller 6-yard pass from Jim McMahon (Chris Bahr kick), 6:07. Chargers 7–0. Drive: 14 plays, 73 yards, 5:40. Second quarter PHI – Gregg Garrity 4-yard pass from Randall Cunningham (Steve DeLine kick), 2:24. Tied 7–7. Drive: 7 plays, 77 yards, 3:09. Third quarter SDG – Chris Bahr 23-yard field goal, 5:39. Chargers 10–7. Drive: 7 plays, 60 yards, 3:39. SDG – Anthony Miller 69-yard pass from Jim McMahon (Chris Bahr kick), 3:33. Chargers 17–7. Drive: 1 play, 69 yards, 0:09. Fourth quarter PHI – Steve DeLine 43-yard field goal, 13:26. Chargers 17–10. Drive: 10 plays, 45 yards, 5:07. PHI – Keith Byars 3-yard run (Steve DeLine kick), 10:11. Tied 17–17. Drive: 3 plays, 23 yards, 1:34. SDG – Chris Bahr 49-yard field goal, 0:04. Chargers 20–17. Drive: 7 plays, 60 yards, 1:44. Top passers PHI – Randall Cunningham – 19/29, 236 yards, TD, INT SDG – Jim McMahon – 14/29, 264 yards, 2 TD, INT Top rushers PHI – Robert Drummond – 14 rushes, 77 yards SDG – Marion Butts – 16 rushes, 72 yards Top receivers PHI – Robert Drummond – 5 receptions, 74 yards SDG – Anthony Miller – 5 receptions, 129 yards, 2 TD A major stroke of luck in the final seconds helped San Diego upset the 6–2 Eagles.Second try a charm for Bahr https://www.newspapers.com/clip/87454408/chargers-20-17-eagles-6-nov-1989/ Los Angeles Times 6 November 1989 McMahon, restored to the starting line-up, led a 14-play, 73-yard drive on the game's opening possession, converting four third downs with pass completions. Three of these went to Miller, including a six-yard touchdown pass. Miller brought the ball in one-handed at the five, ducked out of a tackle and darted into the end zone to open the scoring. The Charger defense foiled two good Eagle chances in the 2nd quarter: Randall Cunningham fumbled a red zone snap, with Cedric Figaro recovering, and Sam Seale intercepted a third down pass at his own 23. Cunningham did manage a touchdown on the next Eagles possession, and a missed 33-yard field goal by Bahr left the scores level at halftime.1989 week 9 gamebook, Eagles at Chargers 5 November 1989 Philadelphia drove into Charger territory at the start of the second half, but Grossman sacked Cunningham on third down to force a punt. McMahon's 37-yard completion to a wide-open Joe Caravello set up a Bahr field goal and a 10–7 lead. Leslie O'Neal then forced a punt with another third down sack of Cunningham. San Diego struck on the very next play with a 69-yard touchdown by Miller. McMahon faked a handoff before finding the receiver in stride behind two defenders at the Eagle 25. After a Philadelphia field goal, McMahon's third down pass bounced off the hands of Jamie Holland and was intercepted by Eric Allen in Charger territory. Keith Byars tied the scores three plays later, with ten minutes to play. On the next drive, McMahon converted a 3rd and 13 with a 16-yard pass to Walker; the Chargers reached the edge of field goal range before Brinson lost a fumble at the Eagle 35. Philadelphia reached a 3rd and 1 at the San Diego 44 in response, but Grossman made a tackle for no gain, and the Eagles opted to punt with two minutes left. San Diego took over at their own 9-yard line, and faced a 2nd and 14 after an incompletion and a penalty. Butts then broke off consecutive gains of 13 and 6 yards to keep the drive alive. On the next play, McMahon and Walker teamed on a 49-yard completion up the right sideline. Two plays later, Bahr came in to attempt a 44-yard game-winner. He missed wide left, but Fitzpatrick had committed a false start penalty, negating the play. Given a second chance from 49 yards, Bahr was successful with four seconds to play. Miller had 5 catches for 129 yards and two touchdowns. O'Neal was credited with 3 1 2 out of 5 Charger sacks on the day. Week 10: vs. Los Angeles Raiders San Diego Chargers 1989 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week Ten: Los Angeles Raiders at San Diego Chargers – Game summary November 12 5:00 p.m. PST Raiders 3 6 3 0 Chargers 0 0 7 7 Jack Murphy Stadium, San Diego, California 59,151 64 °F 1, relative humidity 80%, wind 9 mph Jerry Markbreit ESPN Mike Patrick and Joe Theismann Box score First quarter RAI – Jeff Jaeger 23-yard field goal, 8:10. Raiders 3–0. Drive: 8 plays, 37 yards, 3:48. Second quarter RAI – Jeff Jaeger 36-yard field goal, 13:03. Raiders 6–0. Drive: 8 plays, 40 yards, 1:58. RAI – Jeff Jaeger 33-yard field goal, 0:15. Raiders 9–0. Drive: 6 plays, 36 yards, 0:37. Third quarter RAI – Jeff Jaeger 32-yard field goal, 5:26. Raiders 12–0. Drive: 11 plays, 42 yards, 7:33. SDG – Anthony Miller 91-yard kickoff return (Chris Bahr kick), 5:10. Raiders 12–7. Fourth quarter SDG – Tim Spencer 5-yard run (Chris Bahr kick), 8:48. Chargers 14–12. Drive: 4 plays, 23 yards, 2:14. Top passers RAI – Jay Schroeder – 12/25, 173 yards, 3 INT SDG – Jim McMahon – 9/20, 88 yards, INT Top rushers RAI – Bo Jackson – 21 rushes, 103 yards SDG – Tim Spencer – 10 rushes, 59 yards, TD Top receivers RAI – Willie Gault – 5 receptions, 88 yards SDG – Anthony Miller – 5 receptions, 54 yards Two big special teams plays sparked San Diego to another win.Kickoff return turns the tide for Chargers https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77737168/chargers-14-12-raiders-13-nov-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 13 November 1989Match report continued https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77737305/chargers-14-12-raiders-13-nov-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 13 November 1989 Los Angeles kicker Jeff Jaeger kicked the first of four Raider field goals in the 1st quarter. The Chargers were poised to tie the scores after driving inside the Los Angeles 10-yard line, but a botched snap prevented Bahr from attempting his kick; the Raiders drove 40 yards the other way for another Jaeger kick and a 6–0 lead. A McMahon bomb was then intercepted, but Raider quarterback Jay Schroeder also struggled, with Elvis Patterson and Roy Bennett picking off passes in Charger territory. After Bennett's interception, San Diego reached a 4th and 1 at the Los Angeles 43 - they went for the conversion, but McMahon was sacked, and Jaeger field goals either side of halftime pushed the Raider lead to 12–0.1989 week 10 gamebook, Eagles at Chargers 12 November 1989 Anthony Miller then produced a game-changing play, fielding a kickoff at his own 9, cutting to the right sideline and racing untouched for a 91-yard touchdown. Shortly afterwards, a Sam Seale interception set the Chargers up in Raider territory - they reached a first down at the eleven before Tim Spencer swept around right end and lost a fumble a yard from the goal line. The defense forced a punt which Ken Woodard partially blocked, and Figaro returned 14 yards to the 23. Given a second chance, Spencer caught an 8-yard pass, and followed up with carries of 4, 6 and 5 yards to give his side the lead, 8:38 from time. Schroeder appeared to have moved the Raiders into field goal range on the next drive, but his 19-yard scramble to the 22 was wiped out by penalty. O'Neal then sacked Schroeder, and the Raiders were forced to punt. San Diego ran out the last 4:21 of the clock, with Anthony Allen's 11-yard catch and Spencer's 9-yard run converting a pair of 3rd and 6 situations. McMahon completed 9 of 20 passes for just 88 yards and an interception. Week 11: at Pittsburgh Steelers San Diego Chargers 1989 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week Eleven: San Diego Chargers at Pittsburgh Steelers – Game summary November 19 1:00 p.m. EST Chargers 0 7 10 0 Steelers 3 3 7 7 Three Rivers Stadium, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 44,203 28 °F 1, relative humidity 61%, wind 12 mph, wind chill 18 Bob McElwee NBC Joel Meyers and Paul Maguire Box score First quarter PIT – Gary Anderson 49-yard field goal, 9:25. Steelers 3–0. Drive: 5 plays, 16 yards, 1:49. Second quarter SDG – Anthony Miller 20-yard pass from Jim McMahon (Chris Bahr kick), 11:53. Chargers 7–3. Drive: 9 plays, 79 yards, 4:09. PIT – Gary Anderson 28-yard field goal, 0:50. Chargers 7–6. Drive: 15 plays, 48 yards, 4:53. Third quarter SDG – Chris Bahr 27-yard field goal, 7:31. Chargers 10–6. Drive: 13 plays, 61 yards, 7:29. PIT – Rod Woodson 84-yard kickoff return (Gary Anderson kick), 7:14. Steelers 13–10. SDG – Anthony Miller 19-yard pass from Jim McMahon (Chris Bahr kick), 2:32. Chargers 17–13. Drive: 9 plays, 68 yards, 4:42. Fourth quarter PIT – Merril Hoge 1-yard run (Gary Anderson kick), 6:17. Steelers 20–17. Drive: 12 plays, 91 yards, 5:25. Top passers SDG – Jim McMahon – 19/36, 226 yards, 2 TD, INT PIT – Bubby Brister – 12/27, 142 yards Top rushers SDG – Tim Spencer – 22 rushes, 87 yards PIT – Tim Worley – 17 rushes, 53 yards Top receivers SDG – Anthony Miller – 7 receptions, 104 yards, 2 TD PIT – Mike Mularkey – 2 receptions, 34 yards In a reversal from the previous week, San Diego fell victim to a kickoff return touchdown and lost despite an excellent defensive performance.Fumbles, late drive give Pittsburgh a rare victory https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77759775/chargers-20-17-steelers-20-november-198/ Escondido Times-Advocate 20 November 1989Match report continued https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77759604/chargers-20-17-steelers-20-nov-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 20 November 1989 Both Lester Lyles and Dana Brinson fumbled punts in the opening quarter, but the Chargers trailed only 3–0 after Tim Worley fumbled through the end zone on one drive, and on another was stopped by Gary Plummer for no gain on 4th and 1 from the San Diego 22. After that, the Chargers took the lead with a 79-yard touchdown drive that spanned the 1st and 2nd quarters. McMahon found Holland for 25 yards to move into Steeler territory, and Spencer converted a 4th and 1 with a 6-yard carry. On the next play, Miller caught a 20-yard touchdown pass over the middle. Pittsburgh later pulled three points back on a drive that saw Figaro flagged for running into the punter. San Diego reached the Steeler 25 with six seconds left in the half, but risked running another play and the clock ran out as McMahon threw incomplete.1989 week 11 gamebook, Chargers at Steelers 19 November 1989 San Diego drove 61 yards in 13 plays to open the 3rd quarter, running over seven minutes off the clock and going up 10–6 through a Bahr field goal. On the ensuing kickoff, Rod Woodson cut to the left sideline and outran the Charger coverage team for an 84-yard touchdown. The Chargers came straight back with a 68-yard touchdown drive. During the drive, a penalty left them facing a 2nd and 20 from the Steeler 39. On the next three plays, Miller had catches of 18 yards, 2 yards to pick up a first down, and 19 yards for the touchdown after McMahon bought time by rolling to his right. Following an exchange of punts, Pittsburgh drove all the way from their own 9-yard line to a 1st and goal at the Charger 1. After three runs netted zero yards, Merril Hoge took the ball up the middle on fourth down, easily scoring with 6:17 to play. The Chargers reached 2nd and 5 at the Steeler 42 in response, but McMahon threw an interception straight to David Little with 2:22 on the clock. San Diego's final possession consisted of a false start, a sack, and three incompletions. San Diego outgained Pittsburgh 359–191. Miller caught 7 passes for 104 yards and two touchdowns. Week 12: at Indianapolis Colts San Diego Chargers 1989 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week Twelve: San Diego Chargers at Indianapolis Colts – Game summary November 26 1:00 p.m. EST Chargers 0 3 0 3 Colts 0 3 0 7 Hoosier Dome, Indianapolis, Indiana 58,822 Dome Gordon McCarter NBC Joel Meyers and Paul Maguire Box score First quarter No scoring plays. Second quarter SDG – Chris Bahr 33-yard field goal, 10:39. Chargers 3–0. Drive: 11 plays, 42 yards, 5:08. IND – Dean Biasucci 22-yard field goal, 0:54. Tied 3–3. Drive: 6 plays, 74 yards, 1:24. Third quarter No scoring plays. Fourth quarter SDG – Chris Bahr 33-yard field goal, 3:41. Chargers 6–3. Drive: 4 plays, -8 yards, 2:15. IND – Bill Brooks 25-yard pass from Jack Trudeau (Dean Biasucci kick), 1:54. Colts 10–6. Drive: 6 plays, 87 yards, 1:47. Top passers SDG – Jim McMahon – 18/32, 173 yards IND – Jack Trudeau – 14/24, 153 yards, TD, INT Top rushers SDG – Tim Spencer – 20 rushes, 78 yards IND – Eric Dickerson – 17 rushes, 30 yards Top receivers SDG – Jamie Holland – 4 receptions, 58 yards IND – Bill Brooks – 8 receptions, 101 yards, TD As they had done in Seattle earlier in the season, San Diego lost to a late touchdown despite conceding only ten points in the game.No offense, but Chargers are without one https://www.newspapers.com/clip/87455645/chargers-6-10-colts-27-nov-1989/ Los Angeles Times 27 November 1989Match report continued https://www.newspapers.com/clip/87455381/chargers-6-10-colts-27-nov-1989/ Los Angeles Times 27 November 1989 After an early exchange of punts, O'Neal forced Eric Dickerson to fumble, with Les Miller recovering at the Indianapolis 25. However, Darrin Nelson fumbled the ball back to the Colts only two plays later. Later, Glenn intercepted Justin Trudeau at the Charger 43, and San Diego managed to get close enough for Bahr to open the scoring with a 33-yard kick. Indianapolis kicked a field goal of their own before halftime, and the scores stayed level through the 3rd quarter, with Bahr missing from 44 yards out.1989 week 12 gamebook, Chargers at Colts 26 November 1989 San Diego began a 14-play drive on the final play of the 3rd quarter, moving from their own 22 to the Colt 6, with Holland's 33-yard catch the biggest play. They set up to attempt a field goal on fourth and goal, but a bad snap forced holder David Archer to try a pass, which fell incomplete. The Charger defense then forced a three-and-out; Phil McConkey returned the punt 20 yards to the 24, and a facemask penalty moved the ball to the 12-yard line. McMahon found Nelson for a touchdown on third down, but Anthony Miller was flagged for offensive pass interference, and San Diego had to settle for Bahr's 38-yard kick with 3:41 to play. The Colt offense then awoke, gaining 87 of their game total of 264 yards on a six-play touchdown drive, Trudeau hitting Bill Brooks for a 25-yard score with 1:54 left. Needing a touchdown, San Diego began their reply on their own 31, and gained nine yards on three plays before McMahon threw incomplete. McMahon finished 18 of 33 for 173 yards, while being sacked five times. He was benched for the final four games of the season, and did not play for the Chargers again.Amid odor, Tolliver finds a fresh start https://www.newspapers.com/clip/86840261/tolliver-starts-3-dec-1989/ Los Angeles Times 3 December 1989 Week 13: vs. New York Jets San Diego Chargers 1989 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week Thirteen: New York Jets at San Diego Chargers – Game summary December 3 1:00 p.m. PST Jets 7 0 0 13 Chargers 0 7 3 7 Jack Murphy Stadium, San Diego, California 38,954 65 °F 1, relative humidity 19%, wind 9 mph Tom Dooley NBC Joel Meyers and Paul Maguire Box score First quarter NYJ – Johnny Hector 9-yard pass from Ken O'Brien (Pat Leahy kick), 2:20. Jets 7–0. Drive: 7 plays, 47 yards, 3:12. Second quarter SDG – Marion Butts 40-yard run (Chris Bahr kick), 5:01. Tied 7–7. Drive: 1 play, 40 yards, 0:10. Third quarter SDG – Chris Bahr 39-yard field goal, 2:07. Chargers 10–7. Drive: 10 plays, 50 yards, 3:28. Fourth quarter NYJ – Roger Vick 1-yard run (Pat Leahy kick), 9:19. Jets 14–10. Drive: 7 plays, 47 yards, 3:37. NYJ – Roger Vick 14-yard run (kick failed), 7:55. Jets 20–10. Drive: 2 plays, 16 yards, 0:52. SDG – Anthony Miller 8-yard pass from Billy Joe Tolliver (Chris Bahr kick), 3:25. Jets 20–17. Drive: 3 plays, 49 yards, 0:58. Top passers NYJ – Ken O'Brien – 9/20, 81 yards, TD, INT SDG – Billy Joe Tolliver – 24/51, 230 yards, TD, 2 INT Top rushers NYJ – Johnny Hector – 20 rushes, 106 yards SDG – Marion Butts – 5 rushes, 42 yards, TD Top receivers NYJ – Al Toon – 7 receptions, 57 yards SDG – Anthony Miller – 7 receptions, 70 yards, TD Billy Joe Tolliver replaced McMahon as starting quarterback, but the result was another narrow defeat.The defense can't quite get it right https://www.newspapers.com/clip/87456399/chargers-17-20-jets-4-dec-1989/ Los Angeles Times 4 December 1989 After Johnny Hector had scored the opening touchdown for the Jets, Jamie Holland ran the ensuing kickoff back 34 yards, then drew a 31-yard pass interference penalty that moved the ball to the New York 20-yard line. Tolliver was intercepted two plays later, and San Diego came up empty handed. Butts was later stuffed on a 4th and 1 try, but tied the scores in five minutes before halftime with a 40-yard run. He burst up the middle and shrugged off four tacklers en route to his first touchdown since week 6.1989 week 13 gamebook, Jets at Chargers 12 December 1989 In the 3rd quarter, Lester Lyles stopped a dangerous drive with a one-handed interception, and Anthony Miller's 30-yard reception helped set up a 39-yard Bahr field goal. Roger Vick scored a pair of touchdowns in the final quarter, either side of another Tolliver interception. Down 20–10, the Chargers were forced to punt with barely six minutes to play, but got a break when Vick fumbled, with O'Neal recovering at the New York 49. Tolliver led his team on a quick touchdown drive, finding Miller for a 5-yard score with 3:25 to play. After a Jets three-and-out, Tolliver completed five consecutive passes, positioning Bahr for a 37-yard field goal with 13 seconds left. The kick skewed far to the right of the posts, costing San Diego a chance to win in overtime. Seale, Byrd and Lyles all had interceptions for San Diego. Williams had two of the defense's five sacks. Week 14: at Washington Redskins San Diego Chargers 1989 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week Fourteen: San Diego Chargers at Washington Redskins – Game summary December 10 1:00 p.m. EST Chargers 14 0 0 7 Redskins 0 7 9 10 Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium, Washington, DC 47,693 27 °F 1, relative humidity 55%, wind 12 mph, wind chill 17 Howard Roe NBC Dick Enberg and Bill Walsh Box score First quarter SDG – Anthony Miller 25-yard pass from Billy Joe Tolliver (Chris Bahr kick), 11:34. Chargers 7–0. Drive: 6 plays, 78 yards, 3:26. SDG – Wayne Walker 5-yard pass from Billy Joe Tolliver (Chris Bahr kick), 2:54. Chargers 14–0. Drive: 9 plays, 80 yards, 4:33. Second quarter WAS – Ricky Sanders 45-yard pass from Mark Rypien (Chip Lohmiller kick), 0:15. Chargers 14–7. Drive: 7 plays, 93 yards, 1:29. Third quarter WAS – Chip Lohmiller 38-yard field goal, 11:04. Chargers 14–10. Drive: 8 plays, 44 yards, 3:56. WAS – Chip Lohmiller 31-yard field goal, 6:29. Chargers 14–13. Drive: 9 plays, 40 yards, 3:24. WAS – Chip Lohmiller 32-yard field goal, 2:07. Redskins 16–14. Drive: 9 plays, 47 yards, 3:00. Fourth quarter SDG – Marion Butts 10-yard run (Chris Bahr kick), 8:04. Chargers 21–16. Drive: 8 plays, 61 yards, 4:19. WAS – Gary Clark 33-yard pass from Mark Rypien (Chip Lohmiller kick), 7:27. Redskins 23–21. Drive: 4 plays, 39 yards, 0:37. WAS – Chip Lohmiller 28-yard field goal, 3:22. Redskins 26–21. Drive: 6 plays, 2 yards, 3:51. Top passers SDG – Billy Joe Tolliver – 24/39, 350 yards, 2 TD WAS – Mark Rypien – 23/39, 302 yards, 2 TD, INT Top rushers SDG – Marion Butts – 22 rushes, 72 yards, TD WAS – Earnest Byner – 16 rushes, 60 yards Top receivers SDG – Anthony Miller – 8 receptions, 152 yards, TD WAS – Ricky Sanders – 4 receptions, 98 yards, TD An excellent start came to nothing as San Diego lost for the eighth time in ten games.San Diego loses close one (again) as Tolliver shines https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77778982/chargers-21-26-redskins-11-dec-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 11 Dec 1989Match report continued https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77779011/chargers-21-26-redskins-11-dec-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 11 December 1989 The Chargers took the opening kickoff and drove 78 yards in 6 plays, with Tolliver and Miller combining for a 49-yard gain and a 25-yard touchdown. After forcing a punt, they drove 80 yards in 9 plays - this time, Walker made the big plays, with a 43-yard catch and a 4-yard touchdown. A Byrd interception helped keep Washington at bay until shortly before halftime, when Byrd was beaten by Ricky Sanders for a 45-yard touchdown catch.1989 week 14 gamebook, Chargers at Redskins 10 December 1989 Washington had three consecutive field goal drives in the 3rd quarter, while the Chargers twice went three-and-out. Down 16–14, San Diego improved in the final quarter. Tolliver found Nelson for 32 yards on 3rd and 7, and Butts scored from the 10 with 8:04 to play. The lead lasted only 37 seconds, as Washington followed a 51-yard kickoff return with a 33-yard touchdown pass from Mark Rypien to Gary Clark on 4th and 4. Soon afterwards, a bad exchange on the snap between Center Courtney Hall and Tolliver led to a fumble that Washington recovered, and turned into another field goal. San Diego's final drive began on their own 30 with 3:22 to play, and took them to a 4th and 3 from the Washington 6 with 83 seconds left. Tolliver's final pass was knocked away from Walker, and Washington ran out the clock. The Chargers gained a season-high 427 yards. Tolliver was 24 of 39 for 350 yards and two touchdowns. Miller had 8 catches for 152 yards and a touchdown, while Walker caught 7 for 105 yards and a touchdown. Week 15: at Kansas City Chiefs San Diego Chargers 1989 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week Fifteen: San Diego Chargers at Kansas City Chiefs – Game summary December 17 1:00 p.m. EST Chargers 0 7 3 10 Chiefs 0 13 0 0 Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, Missouri 40,623 11 °F 1, relative humidity 67%, wind 11 mph, wind chill -3 Jerry Seeman NBC Joel Meyers and Paul Maguire Box score First quarter No scoring plays. Second quarter KAN – Nick Lowery 36-yard field goal, 10:20. Chiefs 3–0. Drive: 7 plays, 22 yards, 2:01. KAN – Nick Lowery 30-yard field goal, 5:40. Chiefs 6–0. Drive: 4 plays, 4 yards, 2:14. KAN – Todd McNair 11-yard pass from Steve DeBerg (Nick Lowery kick), 1:45. Chiefs 13–0. Drive: 5 plays, 76 yards, 0:49. SDG – Andy Parker 1-yard pass from Billy Joe Tolliver (Chris Bahr kick), 0:17. Chiefs 13–7. Drive: 8 plays, 68 yards, 1:23. Third quarter SDG – Chris Bahr 43-yard field goal, 6:26. Chiefs 13–10. Drive: 11 plays, 61 yards, 5:18. Fourth quarter SDG – Anthony Miller 5-yard pass from Billy Joe Tolliver (Chris Bahr kick), 14:56. Chargers 17–13. Drive: 9 plays, 80 yards, 3:03. SDG – Chris Bahr 20-yard field goal, 8:41. Chargers 20–13. Drive: 9 plays, 44 yards, 5:17. Top passers SDG – Billy Joe Tolliver – 13/30, 171 yards, 2 TD, INT KAN – Steve DeBerg – 14/33, 142 yards, TD, 2 INT Top rushers SDG – Marion Butts – 39 rushes, 176 yards KAN – Christian Okoye – 18 rushes, 60 yards Top receivers SDG – Anthony Miller – 5 receptions, 93 yards, TD KAN – Stephone Paige – 4 receptions, 42 yards A standout performance by Marion Butts led the Chargers to a sweep of the playoff-chasing Chiefs.NFL Standings, week 14, 1989 https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/standings.cgi?week=14&year=1989&wk_league=NFL pro-football-reference.comNo Butts about it, Chargers surprise Chiefs https://www.newspapers.com/clip/87457277/chargers-20-13-chiefs-18-dec-1989/ Los Angeles Times 18 December 1989Match report continued https://www.newspapers.com/clip/87457158/chargers-20-13-chiefs-18-dec-1989/ Los Angeles Times 18 December 1989 San Diego produced an error-riddled first half, with Tolliver throwing an interception, and both Tolliver and Walker losing fumbles. The Chiefs turned two of these turnovers into field goals, and added a touchdown after Bahr missed a 42-yard field goal. Down 13–0 with 1:45 left in the half, Tolliver got the offense moving, with completions on three consecutive plays covering 66 yards. Three plays later, he found tight end Andy Parker for a 1-yard touchdown with 17 seconds on the clock.1989 week 15 gamebook, Chargers at Chiefs 17 December 1989 San Diego maintained their momentum after the break. Nelson's 27-yard carry was the longest play of a 61-yard drive, ending in a field goal. After a Chiefs punt, the Chargers drove 80 yards in 9 plays to take the lead. Butts carried 5 times for 45 yards on the drive, while Miller had a 25-yard reception and a 5-yard touchdown catch. When Bahr hit his second field goal of the game on the following drive, San Diego had scored on four consecutive possessions, and led by seven points with 8:43 to play. After a Chief punt, Butts lost a fumble at his own 36-yard line, but Lyles sacked Steve DeBerg for a 10-yard loss and Kansas City were forced to punt again. The Chiefs had one more possession, converting a fourth down as they drove from their own 36 to the Charger 19, but Bennett intercepted DeBerg in the end zone with 12 seconds to play. Butts ran 39 times for 176 yards, both of which proved to be career highs.Marion Butts Career Game Log https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/ButtMa00/gamelog/ pro-football-reference.com Week 16: vs. Denver Broncos San Diego Chargers 1989 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week Sixteen: Denver Broncos at San Diego Chargers – Game summary December 24 1:00 p.m. PST Broncos 0 7 3 6 Chargers 0 6 3 10 Jack Murphy Stadium, San Diego, California 50,524 63 °F 1, relative humidity 30%, wind 7 mph Tom White NBC Charlie Jones and Merlin Olsen Box score First quarter No scoring plays. Second quarter SDG – Chris Bahr 22-yard field goal, 8:29. Chargers 3–0. Drive: 16 plays, 68 yards, 8:27. DEN – Bobby Humphrey 12-yard pass from John Elway (David Treadwell kick), 5:56. Broncos 7–3. Drive: 8 plays, 72 yards, 2:33. SDG – Chris Bahr 41-yard field goal, 0:25. Broncos 7–6. Drive: 11 plays, 64 yards, 1:31. Third quarter SDG – Chris Bahr 53-yard field goal, 12:43. Chargers 9–7. Drive: 4 plays, 5 yards, 1:25. DEN – David Treadwell 24-yard field goal, 6:15. Broncos 10–9. Drive: 6 plays, 22 yards, 6:28. Fourth quarter SDG – Tim Spencer 1-yard run (Chris Bahr kick), 7:34. Chargers 16–10. Drive: 11 plays, 81 yards, 5:45. DEN – Jeff Alexander 1-yard run (kick failed), 0:35. Tied 16–16. Drive: 2 plays, 41 yards, 0:56. SDG – Chris Bahr 45-yard field goal, 0:00. Chargers 19–16. Drive: 5 plays, 45 yards, 0:31. Top passers DEN – Gary Kubiak – 12/17, 97 yards, INT SDG – Billy Joe Tolliver – 22/48, 305 yards, 4 INT Top rushers DEN – Bobby Humphrey – 15 rushes, 51 yards SDG – Anthony Miller – 3 rushes, 38 yards Top receivers DEN – Vance Johnson – 5 receptions, 38 yards SDG – Darrin Nelson – 6 receptions, 92 yards San Diego overcame six turnovers to beat the playoff-bound Broncos.Chargers get a late break, top Broncos https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77781694/chargers-19-16-broncos-25-dec-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 25 December 1989Match report continued https://www.newspapers.com/clip/77781640/chargers-19-16-broncos-25-dec-1989/ Escondido Times-Advocate 25 December 1989 Butts converted a 4th and 1 in the 2nd quarter, and Bahr put the Chargers up 3–0. Denver, who had clinched the #1 seed in the AFC,NFL Standings, week 15, 1989 https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/standings.cgi?week=15&year=1989&wk_league=NFL stathead.com pulled John Elway after he had thrown a touchdown to Bobby Humphrey in response. Shortly before halftime, Miller had catches of 18 and 15 yards, while also gaining 24 yards on an end-around, enabling Bahr to pull it back to 7–6. Tolliver was intercepted three times in the first half, but none of those turnovers led to Denver points.1989 week 16 gamebook, Broncos at Chargers 24 December 1989 Glenn intercepted Denver backup Gary Kubiak at the Bronco 40 two plays into the 3rd quarter. San Diego only drove five yards from there, but Bahr tied the club record for longest field goal with a 53-yarder.Charger field goals by distance through 1989 https://stathead.com/tiny/6qHTQ pro-football-reference.com McConkey fumbled a punt shortly afterwards, and Denver went back ahead with a field goal of their own. Denver were back in Charger territory on their next drive, but O'Neal forced and recovered a fumble from Humphrey. Tolliver was intercepted again shortly afterwards, but made amends on the next Charger drive. Starting from his own 19, Tolliver converted a 3rd and 7 with a 14-yard pass to Nelson, then went deep and found the same player for 49 yards. The pair combined again to convert a 3rd and 9 with a 10-yard gain, bringing up 1st and goal from the 4. Three plays later, Spencer scored on 4th and goal from the 1 for a 16–10 lead midway through the final quarter. Following an exchange of punts, Denver drove to the Charger 29 before O'Neal's fourth down sack stopped them with under two minutes to play. Three plays later, Miller fumbled on a reverse, then Glenn was twice flagged for pass interference and Denver tied the score with 35 seconds left (a failed conversion kept them from taking the lead). Tolliver then completed passes to four different receivers, moving the ball from the Charger 28 to the Bronco 27. From there, Bahr made a 45-yard field goal as time expired. San Diego had seven sacks in total. Tolliver was 22 of 48 for 305 yards, while becoming the first Charger quarterback to win while throwing no touchdowns and four interceptions.Charger quarterbacks winning with 0 touchdowns and 4+ interceptions https://stathead.com/tiny/z0qns stathead.com Standings Awards Three Chargers were selected for the 1990 Pro Bowl,1989 NFL Pro Bowlers https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1989/probowl.htm pro-football-reference.com December 23, 2023 with Lee Williams also named a 2nd-team All-Pro by the Associated Press.1989 NFL All-Pros https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1989/allpro.htm pro-football-reference.com December 23, 2023 Player Position Pro Bowl starter Pro Bowl reserve AP 1st team All-Pro AP 2nd team All-Pro Anthony Miller Wide receiver Leslie O'Neal Linebacker Lee Williams Defensive end References San Diego Chargers Category:San Diego Chargers seasons Category:1980s in San Diego San Diego Chargers f