DENVER >> San Diego linebacker Manti Te’o suffered a concussion late in the first half and didn’t return to today’s AFC divisional playoff game against the Denver Broncos.

Punter Mike Scifres was also shaken up late in the first half. He has a back injury and his return is questionable.

Te’o was hurt trying to tackle running back Knowshon Moreno near the goal line. The rookie linebacker was helped to the sideline and then headed into the locker room for evaluation.

Scifres was banged up trying to make a tackle on Eric Decker’s long punt return. Scifres stayed down for several minutes before being helped to the bench.

The Chargers lost to Peyton Manning and the Broncos 24 to 17.

The Broncos (14-3) controlled the game for 3 1/2 quarters before Philip Rivers capitalized on an injury to cornerback Chris Harris Jr. to stage a comeback reminiscent of Baltimore’s shocking win at Denver exactly a year earlier.

This time, however, Manning rescued the Broncos from the brink of another crushing collapse and sent them into the title game for the first time in eight seasons.

They’ll host the New England Patriots (13-4) on Sunday. Get ready for Brady vs. Manning once more.