Chargers...41 Buccaneers...24

Philip Rivers and the San Diego Chargers did everything they could to save their season.

The NFL’s highest-rated passer threw for 287 yards and four touchdowns, helping the Chargers beat Tampa Bay, 41-24, to keep their playoff hopes alive and deal a tough blow to the Buccaneers’ chances.

After their third consecutive victory in what amounted to elimination games, San Diego (7-8) got help when Buffalo beat Denver, 30-23. The Broncos and Chargers meet next week in San Diego in a showdown for the division title.

Tampa Bay (9-6) could have clinched a wild-card spot with a win and some help.

Quoteworthy: “I think we are playing like a playoff team. . . . Hopefully, it’s not too late.” -- LaDainian Tomlinson, Chargers running back