LT: a hint?

Pre-game introductions are typically so much noise and fury. For once, here tonight in San Diego, they produced a fascinating development: LaDainian Tomlinson, the Chargers' all-world running back, broke out of the inflated Chargers' helmet in the southwest corner of Qualcomm Stadium and tore through the lines of teammates with what looked to be his characteristic speed.

You know, the speed that had marked LT's play before the first half of this season, when he was slowed by nagging injuries.

If LT is on, the Chargers are -- just to be obvious -- way more formidable. Dating to his rookie season in 2001, when Tomlinson runs for more than 100 yards, San Diego is 36-11.