What it means: The Titans could have ensured they’d still be in first place in the AFC South at the end of the weekend. But, instead, at 5-3 they will have one more loss than the winner of Monday night’s Texans-Colts battle.

What I didn’t like: Tennessee’s defense just didn’t get it done on third down, allowing Philip Rivers and the Chargers to covert 12 out of 18 third-down attempts. That helped San Diego to a 37:47 to 22:13 time of possession advantage and 71 offensive plays for the Chargers. That’s too much time and too many plays for even a good defense. Jason McCourty’s interception was the game’s lone turnover, but the Titans needed more.

What I didn’t like, Part II: The Titans were hardly the first team to fail to contain Antonio Gates. But whether it was a breakdown or by design, they simply can’t have a linebacker like Will Witherspoon deep downfield covering Gates on his 48-yard touchdown that put San Diego ahead for good.

Injury issues: Kenny Britt suffered a right hamstring injury and coach Jeff Fisher said after the game it will take the receiver a good while to return. Other options emerged for Tennessee in this game, but the Titans need Britt on the field to be at their best. Vince Young didn’t finish the game after rolling his ankle -- it was the same ankle (along with a knee) he injured against Jacksonville.

What’s next: The Titans will rest up through a bye week before returning to action with a game at Miami.