But those proclamations were more like acknowledgments that it's never good to lose a game.

They really mean it this time.

"We have to win," linebacker Stephen Cooper said.

All around the locker room, the sentiment was repeated as the Chargers prepared for tomorrow's game against the Indianapolis Colts fully aware of their standing behind the Denver Broncos in the AFC West and the fact that Denver hosts the Oakland Raiders tomorrow.

As the number of remaining games dwindles, the deficit cannot get any larger than the two games at which it stands.

General Manager A.J. Smith said he will not concede the playoffs are out of reach unless the Chargers are mathematically eliminated, but he can read the numbers on the wall.

"Striking distance is one and two (games)," Smith said. "You go three down with five to go, you start doing your math. ... Three games, you're in trouble."

Super sub

Jacques Cesaire, who has started games at both ends and filled in at nose tackle during his career, is expected to start at end tomorrow in place of Luis Castillo, who suffered a groin strain last week at Pittsburgh and has not practiced since.

"It's getting better," Castillo said, yet he conceded his situation was "very doubtful."

This is nothing new for Cesaire, an undrafted free agent in 2003 out of Southern Connecticut State, a nonscholarship Division II school.

Cesaire is the ultimate example of depth on the Chargers roster. He is technically not a starter, but he has started 33 games over the past five seasons. He is probably good enough to start on some teams but was content in 2006 to sign a five-year, $5.6 million contract and contribute however he could with the Chargers.

"I am very, very grateful for the opportunity to start," said Cesaire, who had two sacks against the Steelers. "I get on my knees every day and thank God I get to play Football."

Nuts 'n' Bolts

* As expected, backup cornerback Cletis Gordon (knee) is out for the Colts game. Corner Antonio Cromartie (hip) yesterday worked the entire practice for the first time this week and is listed as probable.

* Colts safety Bob Sanders (knee) is questionable after not practicing all week.

* With six receptions against Indianapolis, LaDainian Tomlinson would become one of only five players (Marcus Allen, Tiki Barber, Marshall Faulk and Emmitt Smith) with 10,000 career rushing yards and 500 catches. Tomlinson is the Chargers' all-time leading rusher and third-leading receiver, behind Charlie Joiner (586) and Kellen Winslow (541).

* The fan who brings the most nonperishable food items to Qualcomm Stadium tomorrow will receive a Philip Rivers autographed Football. The San Diego Food Bank will have red bins at every entrance to collect food for families in need.