Colts bid for perfect season ends

Manning shows frustration as a perfect season slips away

The Indianapolis Colts' attempt to record only the second unbeaten season in NFL history ended with a 26-17 home loss to the San Diego Chargers.

Nate Kaeding kicked four field goals and Michel Turner had a late touchdown to frustrate the Colts, who had hoped to emulate the 1972 Miami Dolphins.

Cornerback Quentin Jammer intercepted a pass by Peyton Manning with one minute 35 seconds left to seal the victory.

The win keeps the Chargers level with Pittsburgh for an AFC wild card spot.

And Indianapolis (13-1) will turn their thoughts to a run at the Super Bowl, for which they will still be favourites.

In Saturday's action, New England quarterback Tom Brady threw for three touchdowns to lead the Patriots to a 28-0 win over Tampa Bay.

The defending Super Bowl champions sealed the AFC East division title as Brady made his 85th consecutive start despite a left shin injury.

But the Buccaneers' Chris Simms was less fortunate, being sacked seven times as the New England defence held his offensive line-up to 138 yards.

The Patriots (9-5) have outscored their last three opponents 79-10.

Brady completed 20 of 31 passes for 258 yards, giving him a career-high 3,888 yards this season.

Meanwhile, Tiki Barber ran for a team-record 220 yards and scored two touchdowns to bring New York Giants to the brink of a division title with a 27-17 win over Kansas City.

And Denver Broncos clinched their seventh play-off berth in 10 seasons under head coach Mike Shanahan with a 28-17 win over the Buffalo Bills.