Blackout lifted for Chargers vs. Chiefs in Week 9

A collection of business signed on as supporters of Thursday night's "Salute to Service" game between the San Diego Chargers and the Kansas City Chiefs, promising enough ticket purchases to lift the local television blackout, the Chargers reported on Monday.

Thanks to USAA, Panera Bread, Ashford University, KFMB-TV CBS 8, Donovan's Steak and Chop House and Donovan's Prime Seafood, the San Diego area will be able to enjoy the game locally on KFMB-TV. The game will also be broadcast nationally on the NFL Network.

"We're excited by the reaction from our corporate partners to support our annual Salute to Service game," said Chargers Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer A.G. Spanos. "Their support is making it possible for men and women from our local military bases to enjoy a great experience at the game Thursday night. Their actions are also making it possible for everyone at home to see the team play. We're grateful for their support."

The NFL's rules changed during the 2012 offseason to allow teams to avoid blackouts if they sell 85 percent of available tickets, but the Chargers were one of four NFL teams that declined the new policy. Teams that chose to reduce the threshold are obligated to share a larger portion of ticket revenues with the visiting team. If a game isn't sold out 72 hours prior to the start, the NFL states it cannot be televised locally.

The Chargers (3-4) currently sit one game behind the Denver Broncos for a share of the AFC West lead. The Chiefs are in the cellar of the entire AFC at 1-6.

This story originally appeared at SB Nation.