Los Angeles Chargers vs Detroit Lions

The 2025 NFL Hall of Fame Game on July 31 at Tom Benson Stadium in Canton, Ohio, opened the preseason with a clash between the Los Angeles Chargers and the Detroit Lions that ended in a 34–7 win for Los Angeles. The night started with a bang as the Chargers forced a fumble on the opening kickoff, setting the tone for a game dominated by takeaways. Fans not only witnessed the return of the Hall of Fame Game for the Los Angeles Chargers for the first time since 1994, but also got a glimpse of how deep and prepared their roster looks heading into the new season.

Stepping in for Justin Herbert, backup quarterback Trey Lance delivered a composed performance that gave Los Angeles a clear offensive edge. He completed 13 of 20 passes for 120 yards and threw two touchdown passes, including a crucial fourth‑and‑goal strike to Will Dissly. Running back Kimani Vidal also left his mark with two short-yardage touchdowns, showing that the Chargers’ ground game could keep defenses honest even when their starter rests.

The Lions struggled throughout the night, turning the ball over five times, which Los Angeles repeatedly converted into points. Detroit’s offense only managed 197 total yards, and their lone bright spot came with a three‑yard touchdown run from Craig Reynolds in the second quarter. Quarterbacks Kyle Allen and Hendon Hooker, both competing for the backup spot behind Jared Goff, combined for three interceptions, making it a difficult night for the coaching staff to evaluate positive momentum.

Los Angeles’ defense and special teams were relentless, with Nikko Reed standing out after returning an interception 60 yards to set up a score, while Tony Jefferson and Myles Purchase added their own picks. TeRah Edwards and Tre’Mon Morris‑Brash contributed with timely sacks as the Chargers’ front created chaos throughout the game. This level of intensity from second- and third‑string defenders gave head coach Jim Harbaugh a lot to smile about as the team built confidence early in the preseason.

While the Chargers celebrated a balanced showing on both sides of the ball, the Lions still found some positives. Cornerback Rock Ya‑Sin, rookie receiver Isaac TeSlaa, wideout Dominic Lovett, and linebacker Ahmed Hassanein were among those who stood out despite the lopsided score. For Los Angeles, this preseason opener was about sending a message that their roster depth is ready to compete, while for Detroit it was an early reality check heading into a long campaign. The replay of this game captures every moment of a preseason opener that mixed sharp execution, costly mistakes, and flashes of emerging talent.