Tomlinson Becomes Rushing Leader

SAN DIEGO (AP) -- It looks like LaDainian Tomlinson got what he wanted for Christmas. He's the new NFL rushing leader and his team is peaking at the right time for the playoffs. L.T. produced his

Tuesday, December 25th 2007, 3:12 pm

By: News On 6

SAN DIEGO (AP) -- It looks like LaDainian Tomlinson got what he wanted for Christmas. He's the new NFL rushing leader and his team is peaking at the right time for the playoffs. L.T. produced his fourth straight 100-yard game in the San Diego Chargers' 23-3 win over Denver Monday night.

Tomlinson had a 17-yard scoring run among his 107 yards and then sat out most of the second half.

The 10-and-5 Chargers have won five straight and nine of 11. They need to beat Oakland on Sunday to secure the AFC's Number-3 playoff seed.

Tomlinson has 1,418 yards in pursuit of his second straight rushing title. His route was made easier when Pittsburgh's Willie Parker, who finished the season with 1,316 yards, broke his right lower leg on Thursday night. L.T.'s closest pursuer is Minnesota rookie Adrian Peterson, who has 1,305 yards.

San Diego's Nate Kaeding kicked field goals of 40, 23 and 29 yards. Denver's Jason Elam kicked a 23-yarder.

The Chargers held the 6-and-9 Broncos without a touchdown in the season series. The Bolts beat the Broncos 41-3 at Denver in October.

It was a rough night for Broncos quarterback Jay Cutler, who was born in Santa Claus, Indiana. Cutler was sacked four times, lost a fumble and threw two interceptions.