No, it is not 2007, but Philip Rivers and Antonio Gates proved that they are still a reliable passing combination on Sunday, as the San Diego Chargers defeated the defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks by a score of 30-21.

Gates flashed the skills that will surely make him a future member of the Hall of Fame throughout this game, as he hauled in seven receptions for 96 yards and three touchdowns. The 36-year-old tight end may not be as fast or talented as he once was, but he knows how to get open, and his rapport with Rivers is as good as any duo in the league.

Rivers completed 28 of 37 passes on the afternoon for 284 yards and the three touchdown passes to Gates. He did not throw an interception. Rivers looked on point all afternoon against easily the best defense in the NFL, which is led by the fear “Legion of Boom” secondary. This aerial display by Rivers and company against such a tough defense is a great sign for the Chargers.

The Seahawks’ offense was solid in this one, led by the always reliable Russell Wilson, who completed 17 of 25 passes for 202 yards and a touchdown. Jermaine Kearse led the receiving core for the Seahawks as he caught four passes for 61 yards. Robert Turbin and Marshawn Lynch were each on the receiving end of Wilson’s two touchdown passes.

After an incredible season debut against the Green Bay Packers, the Seahawks inexplicably pretty much ignored Lynch in the running game against the Chargers. Lynch only carried the ball six times for 36 yards.

Late in the first quarter, wide receiver Percy Harvin lined up in the backfield and took a pitch to the left for a 51-yard touchdown run. Harvin showed his incredible speed and athleticism on the play, but it did appear that he stepped out of bounds towards the end of his run. The play was not reviewed, and the touchdown was upheld.

The Chargers are now 1-1 on the season with a win over a Seahawks team that many consider to be the best in the NFL. Sure, the Denver Broncos are the favorites in the AFC West, but do not count out the Chargers, this team is for real.