KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) -It used to be LaDainian Tomlinson and Larry Johnson were the most prolific running backs in the NFL, AFC West foes trading yards and scores in football's best running back rivalry.

Now, L.T. vs L.J. is just OK.

At least Tomlinson has reason to hope.

Johnson is mired in a seemingly never-ending cycle of frustration.

Tomlinson took another step toward recovery from a nagging ankle injury, churning out 71 hard-fought yards on 23 carries Sunday in a 37-7 victory the struggling San Diego Chargers desperately needed. Across the field, Johnson muddled through the mud for 49 yards, never a factor in another disappointing loss for the Kansas City Chiefs.