Planning road trip to a Chargers game during Sept - any recommendations on what bars to hit before and/or after the game (games at 1:00 in the afternoon ?

If you haven't already booked a hotel, I suggest you stay at one which is close to a Trolley station. You can take the Trolley to Qualcomm Stadium for the game, then after to downtown where there are many bars and restaurants. You can try Junior Seau's restaurant and bar in Mission Valley (Seau's), also Trophy's Sports Bar and Grill in the Hazard Center. These are not very far from the stadium, but probably too far to walk. Go Chargers!
Are you coming for Sept 15 or Sept 29?

trophey's is fun or just go to the stadium and join the tailgate parties.

topping for Abe.

if you have a vehicle, go early and enjoy the atmosphere of the tail gate party in ghe parking lot.