Trey Lance showcased his potential, throwing for 120 yards and two touchdowns, leading the Los Angeles Chargers to a decisive 34-7 victory over the Detroit Lions in the Hall of Fame game, marking the start of the NFL preseason.
The game commenced with a poignant moment of silence honoring four victims of a recent shooting incident targeting the league's New York headquarters. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell confirmed that he visited an injured employee from the incident, noting improvements in the individual’s condition.
Heightened security measures surrounded Tom Benson Stadium and the Pro Football Hall of Fame village, reflecting the somber atmosphere. Meanwhile, key players from Detroit, including Jared Goff and Amon-Ra St. Brown, remained sidelined, as Coach Dan Campbell opted to rest his starters after a record-breaking season.
On the Chargers' side, Coach Jim Harbaugh also chose to rest several starters, including Justin Herbert. Rookie running back Omarion Hampton had limited action, carrying the ball twice for 9 yards.
The Chargers capitalized on a fumble recovery during the opening kickoff, quickly converting it into a touchdown. Lance executed a flawless touch pass on fourth-and-2 to Will Dissly, who secured a 5-yard touchdown catch.
Following an interception by undrafted rookie cornerback Nikko Reed, who returned it 60 yards, Kimani Vidal scored from 2 yards out, extending the lead to 14-0. The Lions struggled offensively, with Kyle Allen throwing another interception to Tony Jefferson after advancing to the Chargers' 23-yard line.
Craig Reynolds managed to score a 3-yard touchdown run for Detroit, narrowing the gap. However, Lance responded with a 19-yard completion to Tucker Fisk and later connected with KeAndre Lambert-Smith for a 15-yard touchdown pass, concluding the first half at 21-7.
Despite limited starts in his career, Lance's performance was notable as he transitioned from the 49ers to the Chargers after two seasons with Dallas. He completed 13 of 20 passes before handing off to rookie DJ Uiagalelei.
For Detroit, Allen and Hendon Hooker are vying for the backup quarterback position behind Goff. Allen completed 9 of 14 passes but struggled with two interceptions. Hooker has seen limited action since being drafted in 2023.
In a third-quarter mishap, Detroit's special teams faltered again when Jakobie Keeney-James mishandled a punt, allowing the Chargers to recover at the Lions' 5-yard line. Los Angeles settled for a field goal from Cameron Dicker.
The scoring concluded with Vidal's second touchdown run late in the fourth quarter. Aidan Hutchinson, Detroit's standout edge rusher, expressed excitement for the upcoming season opener against the Green Bay Packers.
Before the game, Hutchinson engaged with fans, signing autographs and building anticipation for the season ahead. Dicker, who had an impressive field goal record last season, initially hit the upright on a long attempt but successfully converted his next two tries.
This Hall of Fame game also served as a precursor to the upcoming inductions of notable players including Eric Allen and Antonio Gates into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
The Chargers will host the New Orleans Saints on August 10, while the Lions are set to visit the Atlanta Falcons on August 8.
