National Football League

Rivers doesn't practice, expects to play vs 49ers

Published Dec. 17, 2014 5:00 p.m. ET

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SAN DIEGO (AP) Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers didn't practice Wednesday, although he participated in a morning walkthrough and said he expects to play against the San Francisco 49ers on Saturday night when the Chargers try to keep alive their playoff hopes.

''At this point in the week I have no doubt'' about playing against the 49ers, Rivers said.

''I expect him to play,'' coach Mike McCoy said.

Neither Rivers nor McCoy would come out and say the move was to give Rivers some rest, but Rivers at least hinted it was.

''I hate not practicing but at some point you've got to do what's best for me and the team. Practicing today just wouldn't have been beneficial moving toward Saturday,'' Rivers said.

The quarterback is listed as having chest and back injuries, although the team hasn't said what the specific injuries are.

Asked if it could be termed a maintenance day, he said: ''Sure. Sounds good.''

Rivers said he had a say in the decision that he wouldn't practice Wednesday.

Asked if he anticipates practicing Thursday, he said: ''We'll see. I don't think there'll be any fireworks.''

After losses to New England and Denver, the Chargers (8-6) need to win out and get some help from other teams in order to make the playoffs for a second straight year.

Also Wednesday, running back Ryan Mathews missed another day of practice and McCoy officially ruled out wide receiver Keenan Allen, who broke his right collarbone in Sunday's 22-10 loss to Denver.

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