Oakland was rallying, Denver was losing and the Raiders had the San Diego Chargers backed up inside the 1 midway through the fourth quarter. With the stage set for the Raiders to win the AFC West and end an eight-year playoff drought, Oakland's defense once again failed in what was a recurring theme in a disappointing season. Philip Rivers needed just four plays to drive the Chargers the length of the field, with his third touchdown pass being the decisive blow in San Diego's 38-26 victory Sunday that ended Oakland's playoff hopes.