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3 big moments from Chargers vs. 49ers

This was a second-half nailbiter between two decimated teams. Oh and then there’s Philip “Jekyll-and-Hyde” Rivers

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Summing up the U-T Now Chargers vs. 49ers Conversation in three quick hits.

What. A. Comeback. The Chargers' playoff hopes are somehow still alive.

The first half was just abysmal for the Chargers, who gave up a 52-yard touchdown run to Frank Gore on the 49ers' opening drive, and two Colin Kaepernick touchdown passes to Anquan Boldin and Bruce Ellington.

San Francisco stormed to a 21-0 lead, thanks in part to some help from Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers, who had two interceptions -- including a pick-six -- by half time. But all that becomes inconsequential until the third quarter when the big plays and momentum swings intensified.

1 -- Liuget scores a butt touchdown

Otherwise known as the Chargers' more cheery take on the New York Jets' infamous 2012 butt fumble, but with better results.

San Diego was down 28-14 when Dwight Freeney sacked Kaepernick, causing a fumble that Corey Liuget miraculously recovered in the end zone. Under his rump.

Liuget scores a TD!

Suddenly, the Chargers are back in the game, trailing San Francisco by seven.

View the photo gallery: Chargers at 49ers 12/20/2014

2 -- Run, Kap, run!

But Kaepernick decided to call upon his 2012 self to reel off this 90-yard touchdown run. It was his longest career rushing score, and his first rushing TD of the season.

Run, Kap, run!

3 -- Rivers: Pick after pick after pick. TD after TD after TD after TD

To be fair, Rivers was probably not 100 percent against San Francisco. His three interceptions through the first three quarters really hurt the Chargers. But he interspersed those with four touchdown passes, including this gem to Malcom Floyd to tie the game with 32 seconds remaining in regulation.

Rivers to Floyd for the game-tying TD

4 -- Because, if they go to OT, we go to OT: Niners fumble! Chargers' ball

Quinton Patton fumbles for the 49ers and San Diego recovers.

Quinton Patton fumbles for the Niners

After missing two field goals last week, kicker Nick Novak drilled a 40-yard field goal in overtime to win it for San Diego!

Kicker Nick Novak redeems himself with the game-winning 40-yard FG

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