The 2002 San Diego Chargers season, the first under head coach Marty Schottenheimer, was highlighted by a spectacular 6-1 start and the continued emergence of star running back LaDainian Tomlinson, who rushed for 1,683 yards and earned Pro Bowl honors. Led by quarterback Drew Brees and a defense featuring Pro Bowlers Junior Seau and Donnie Edwards, the team finished with a balanced 8-8 record and remained competitive throughout the year, securing exciting overtime victories over the Raiders, 49ers, and Broncos.