The Los Angeles Chargers kicked off their preseason with a 34-7 win over the Detroit Lions at the Hall of Fame Game in Canton, Ohio. For players vying for 53-man roster spots, this game provided valuable opportunities to make an impression.
Trey Lance, who got the start at quarterback, played a solid game despite not playing most of the Chargers’ starters. He completed 13 of 20 passes for 120 yards and two touchdowns without turning the ball over or taking a sack. Coach Jim Harbaugh and offensive coordinator Greg Roman’s structured game plan allowed Lance to showcase his athleticism, and he played within himself.
Lance’s performance included a bootleg touchdown to Will Dissly and a go-ball downfield catch to rookie receiver KeAndre Lambert-Smith for 28 yards. He also showed smart quarterbacking, avoiding turnovers and finding checkdowns when they were open.
Positive signs from center Zion Johnson included consistent movement in the running game and a crucial blitz pickup on a long completion to Lambert-Smith. The Chargers’ coaching staff has emphasized avoiding turnovers, and Lance took to this approach.
Reed, a rookie cornerback, was the player of the game for the defense with a pass breakup and interception. He demonstrated great instincts and timing in coverage, forcing incompletion and returning an interception 60 yards.
Edge rusher Caleb Murphy also made his case for a roster spot by playing with the first-team special teams units and making two tackles on special teams. Murphy’s physicality and power against the run, including a tackle for loss, may give him an edge over rookie Kyle Kennard.
With this performance, Lance has continued to rise as a contender for Herbert’s backup role, while Reed and Murphy have made strong cases for their inclusion on the 53-man roster.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6530317/2025/08/01/chargers-trey-lance-hall-of-game-game