Minnesota Vikings 19 San Diego Chargers 16

By Jason Kirk | Saturday, August 27, 2005 | ( 0 )

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The Minnesota Vikings had two key injuries tonight, with one of them being the deciding factor in a 19-16 exhibition victory over the San Diego Chargers. Kicker Paul Edinger, who has been competing with Aaron Elling for the kicking job, started the game after Elling hurt his leg during warm-ups. Edinger converted four field goals, including a 50-yarder to propel the Vikings past the Chargers. The Minnesota Vikings also lost running back Mewelde Moore, who was filling in for the injured Michael Bennett, in the second quarter with a sprained ankle. Moore finished the game with six carries for 21 yards and caught a pass for 11 yards. Daunte Culpepper continued his hot streak during the pre-season finishing the game going 12-for-14 for 197 yards, but no touchdowns.

The biggest story for the San Diego Chargers in tonight's game was the loss of rookie outside linebacker, Shawne Merriman. The 12th overall choice in this year's draft, left the first quarter with an injured left knee. The severity of the injury is unknown. Merriman had been competing with Ben Leber for a starting position. After holding out the first week of training camp while his contract was negotiated, Merriman missed the Chargers' first exhibition game. In his NFL debut last Sunday against the St. Louis Rams, he had three tackles. Cleo Lemmon, San Diego's third-string quarterback, led the Chargers' quarterbacks tonight going 14-of-19 for 136 yards and a touchdown. Drew Brees was 4 of 6 for 68 yards and threw an early touchdown to Keenan McCardell.

Other key stats:

Minnesota Vikings
Moe Williams 2 CAR 18 YDS
Nate Burleson 5 REC 97 YDS

San Diego Chargers
Philip Rivers 4/11 15 YDS

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