INGLEWOOD, Calif. — The Los Angeles Chargers remain undefeated through two preseason games after a strong 27-13 victory over the New Orleans Saints on Sunday afternoon at SoFi Stadium.
The game opened with a sluggish offensive performance from quarterback Taylor Heinicke, who struggled to find rhythm. Heinicke completed just 1 of 5 passes for 8 yards and posted a passer rating of 39.6. A sack that initially appeared to result in a safety was overturned after official review, keeping the early scoreboard quiet.
Ric Tapia – The Sporting Tribune
Taylor Heinicke #4 of the Los Angeles Chargers throws during the first half against the New Orleans Saints at SoFi Stadium on August 10, 2025 in Inglewood, California.
Lance outperforming expectations
Head Coach Jim Harbaugh made a pivotal change by inserting Trey Lance to start the second quarter. The move paid immediate dividends. Following a turnover created by the defense, kicker Cameron Dicker knocked through a 44-yard field goal to put the Chargers up 3-0.
On the next possession, Lance capped off a methodical drive with a 5-yard rushing touchdown, though the two-point conversion attempt was unsuccessful. Still, the energy had shifted—and the Chargers were in full control.
In the third quarter, cornerback Eric Rogers electrified the crowd with a momentum-shifting pick-six. The play was followed by a successful two-point conversion—Lance connecting with Dalevon Campbell—to extend the lead to 17-3.
Lance finished the game 7-of-14 for 55 passing yards and led the team in rushing with 48 yards, showcasing dual-threat capabilities and strong leadership. Reports emphasize his poise, football IQ, and leadership. Coaches have described him as extremely intelligent, composed, and highly competitive—even at just age 25.
“Shoutout to the defense,” Lance said. “It’s fun to be at home here at SoFi, it’s a cool feeling.”
Recently signed with the Chargers, Lance has a fresh chance to compete for playing time and reestablish his value in a system under Harbaugh that knows his strengths
In the two preseason games, Lance has showcased his potential by completing smart and timely throws, demonstrating his ability to lead multiple scoring drives while also showing a strong command of the offense. His mobility has been a significant asset, as he often extends plays and keeps drives alive with his legs. Notably, he played a crucial role in leading the offense to 17 unanswered points, highlighting his effectiveness on the field. More importantly, he has passed the eye test with flying colors—exuding confidence, composure, and control throughout the games.
Lance possesses the raw physical upside that originally made him the No. 3 overall pick in 2021. His arm strength enables him to make every throw with both velocity and precision, while his mobility allows him to be a significant threat on designed runs and scrambles, easily outmaneuvering defenders. Standing at 6’4” and weighing 225 lbs, he has the prototypical size and build for a quarterback, further enhancing his potential on the field.
These traits have never gone away—they’ve just been underutilized or poorly developed. With the Chargers, we’re now seeing flashes of what a fully-realized Lance could be
This version of Lance is also more mentally resilient. After being buried on depth charts in San Francisco and Dallas, he’s stayed quiet, worked hard, and now appears laser-focused on proving himself—not with words, but with action
If he continues to shine through the rest of the preseason, teams like the Patriots, Falcons, Raiders, or Broncos—all of whom have QB uncertainty—could, and should, come calling.
Harbaugh Hits Thunder Alley
Before kickoff, Coach Harbaugh made good on a promise from last season and paid a visit to Thunder Alley—the Chargers’ legendary tailgate scene.
“It was incredible,” Harbaugh said. “The energy, the vibe—it knocked my socks off, and I’m not even wearing socks.”
Rams’ joint practice is off
The Los Angeles Chargers have cancelled the joint practice with the Rams due to rising injury concerns within their roster. Rams head coach Sean McVay confirmed that Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh deemed the risk too significant to proceed. Harbaugh confirmed on Sunday after the game.
“Yeah, that’s the biggest reason,” Harbaugh said. “We still got two more preseason games to go, so yeah, that’s the truth.”
The decision underscores a cautious, health-first approach by the coaching staff, prioritizing player recovery over the competitive benefits of a joint practice. With multiple injuries and extra preseason preparation (including the Hall of Fame Game), preserving player availability for the regular season is the clear focus.
The Rams will now need to adjust their preparation schedule and scramble to find alternative competitive work—either through extra internal drills or potentially new joint practice options. The Rams are currently in discussion with the Saints for a possible joint practice on Thursday.