Chargers rout 49ers, keep hopes alive

Vincent Jackson had a career-high three touchdown catches and Philip Rivers surpassed 4,000 yards passing for the third straight season as the Chargers beat the San Francisco 49ers, 34-7, in San Diego last night to stay alive in the AFC West race.

The Chargers (8-6) pulled within a half-game of division leader Kansas City (8-5).

Jackson, who missed the first 10 games because of a contract dispute, had his first three TD grabs of the season, of 58, 11 and 21 yards.

The 49ers (5-9) could wind up 7-9 and in a three-way tie and still win the NFC West, the NFL's weakest division.

Vikes' game still outdoors

The executive vice president of the NFL stood at the edge of snowy TCF Bank Stadium in Minneapolis and vowed that it will be the site of Monday night's Vikings-Bears game despite concerns about player safety on its frozen field.

"We are planning on playing here," NFL VP Eric Grubman said as workers continued to clear snow and ice from the outdoor facility. "If we can't, at that point we'll figure out what we'll do next."

Favre to finish out season

Brett Favre says he's committed to finishing the season with the Vikings - even if he can't play. Favre said he is unsure if his sprained shoulder and hand numbness will heal in time for him to play another game.

Browns to start McCoy

Browns rookie quarterback Colt McCoy will start Cleveland's final three games this season, beginning Sunday against Cincinnati. McCoy sat out the past three games after suffering an ankle sprain Nov. 21. - AP