It was over when ...
Clinton Hart intercepted Peyton Manning's pass -- Manning's career-high sixth interception -- with no time left, allowing the Chargers to hold on and beat the Colts. Barely. The Colts were on the verge of securing an improbable comeback, but Mr. Automatic, Adam Vinatieri, missed a 29-yard field goal with 1:31 left. The Colts forced the Chargers to go three-and-out on the ensuing possession and had one last chance, but Manning could not pull out the comeback.
Game balls
Chargers return man Darren Sproles became the first player since Dante Hall in 2002 to return both a kickoff and punt for a touchdown. Sproles took the opening kickoff 89-yards for a touchdown -- the Chargers first since 2001 -- and returned a punt 45-yards for a touchdown later in the first quarter. ... Cornerback Antonio Cromartie had three interceptions but did not score a touchdown for the first time in three games.
Noteworthy
Manning's six interceptions are a Colts record. ... The Colts had more injuries this week, the most notable a foot injury to defensive end Dwight Freeney in the fourth quarter.