Chargers' 34-20 loss to Bengals decides AFC West

Without Owens and Ochocinco — the self-described Batman and Robin — the passing game was super.

"They ran great routes and made big plays," Palmer said. "They made some of the biggest plays we've had all season."

Notes: Chargers RB Mike Tolbert was carted off the field after putting his head down on a first-quarter run, leaving him face-down and motionless. Coach Norv Turner said he has a sprained neck and shoulder and should be fine. Tolbert gave a thumbs-up sign as he left the field. ... Rivers is 21-2 while starting regular-season games in December and January. The Chargers also lost at home to Oakland on Dec. 5. ... Simpson has played the last two weeks because T.O. and Ochocinco were hurt. Before those two games, he had only one career catch in 2½ seasons.