Chargers likely to have Rivers, Gates

Dec 14, 2007 - 11:01 PM SAN DIEGO (Ticker) -- The San Diego Chargers are expected have both quarterback Philip Rivers and tight end Antonio Gates in the lineup when they play the Detroit Lions on Sunday, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune.

Rivers sprained the medial collateral ligament in his left knee during the second quarter on Sunday's 23-17 overtime win at Tennessee, while Gates suffered a severe back bruise in the game's opening quarter.

While Rivers and Gates have been limited in practice this week, the newspaper reported on its web site Friday that both players will likely be ready to go when the Chargers (8-5) host the Lions (6-7).

"I felt good," Rivers told the paper after practicing Thursday. "It's getting better. But it's a process. How you feel Thursday isn't necessarily how you're going to feel on Sunday. It's important to get some reps in practice rather than go out cold."