Chase Daniel effective in first career start

Chiefs quarterback Chase Daniel got the start in San Diego with Alex Smith resting, and the fourth-year backup played well. Daniel completed 21 of 30 throws for 200 yards and a touchdown and scrambled seven times for 59 yards. He did not commit a turnover.

Daniel hit receiver Dexter McCluster for a 2-yard touchdown in the first quarter. Daniel spread the ball to seven different receivers and led his team into range for the game-winning field goal. Alas, Ryan Succop missed the 41-yarder.

Daniel will go back to backing up Smith in Saturday's wild card game at Indianapolis.