Position by position breakdown: Chargers and Broncos

Orton's Grade II sprain will keep him out this weekend "barring miracle."

How talented are the Chargers at quarterback? Their backup, Billy Volek, is far more accurate than either Raiders QB JaMarcus Russell or Broncos left-hander Chris Simms, who the Bolts may face on Sunday if starter Kyle Orton can't go.

Norv Turner said the Bolts are preparing for either gimpy veteran Kyle Orton or No. 2 QB Chris Simms. Is there anyone erractic enough on the scout team to mimic Simms? In relief of Orton, Simms was 3 for 13 with an interception last Sunday. He has 18 interceptions and 12 TDs in his career to go with 47 sacks in 21 games.

The Eagles were forced to settle for a field goal against the Chargers Sunday after sustaining a 260-yard, 64-play drive that featured six separate red-zone appearances and took 52 minutes off the game clock. "It's disappointing not to score a touchdown when you keep a drive alive for more than three and a half quarters," said quarterback Donovan McNabb, who completed 32 of his 66 passes, converted 26 first downs, and was carted off the field for X-rays twice during the drive. "At least we came away with three points. Those 120 yards in penalties really hurt our field position, but those conversions on third and 21, third and 64, and the fake punt on fourth and 72 showed that this team never quits." Backup QB Michael Vick took one snap from center during the nearly hour-long drive, failing to complete a screen pass.

Everyone except Clary and Hardwick back at practice ... Orton doesn't practice in Denver -- ka

No betting line yet for Charger/Bronco game

The ligaments in Kyle Orton's left ankle are torn. He certainly isn't.

Orton adamantly wants to start Sunday against San Diego and help the Denver Broncos snap out of a monthlong funk that has wiped out their 3½-game cushion over the Chargers in the AFC West.

Funny-man Jacques Cesaire's Musings on the Cutler-era Broncos

I loved these quotes, even if they're now outdated. Figured this was as good a week as any to dust them off. "They have bad hair. They don't know how to cook." - on why he dislikes the Broncos "They have bad teeth." "What else don't I like about them? They watch Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman. Who does that? Who watches Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman? That's what I want to know. I heard the Denver Broncos watch it. I'm just sayin'." "Supercuts." - when asked what he would say to Cutler should he sack him

Understanding the NFL Running Game