NFL Preseason Begins with an electrifying matchup as the Detroit Lions and Los Angeles Chargers face off Thursday night in the Hall of Fame Game. The long-anticipated exhibition opener not only kicks off the NFL’s preseason schedule but also sets the tone for two franchises aiming for deep playoff runs.
Last season, the Lions recorded the best regular season in franchise history with 15 wins and the coveted No. 1 seed, quickly becoming Super Bowl betting favorites. However, their dream season ended abruptly with a one-and-done playoff exit. With NFL Preseason Begins as their fresh start, Detroit enters the 2025 campaign with a loaded roster and unfinished business to address.
The Chargers, meanwhile, also suffered a disappointing playoff exit last year in a wild-card loss to Houston. But under new head coach Jim Harbaugh, they made a six-win improvement and revitalized their outlook. As NFL Preseason Begins, Los Angeles is determined to build upon that momentum.
Lions Enter NFL Preseason Begins with Championship Mindset
Lions head coach Dan Campbell is entering his fifth season and knows the challenges ahead. “It’s a new season, it’s a new beginning,” Campbell said, reflecting on the start of NFL Preseason Begins. “You understand what that road looks like, and there’s going to be nothing easy about it. The goal remains the same: win the division, get in the tournament, and compete for the Lombardi Trophy.”
The Lions boast a star-studded offense led by quarterback Jared Goff, wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, running back Jahmyr Gibbs, and offensive lineman Penei Sewell. However, fans shouldn’t expect to see these starters in action during the Hall of Fame Game. Hendon Hooker and Kyle Allen will share quarterback duties as they compete to be Goff’s backup.
This Hall of Fame Game also marks the debut of Detroit’s two new coordinators. John Morton takes over as offensive coordinator, replacing Ben Johnson, while Kelvin Sheppard has stepped in as defensive coordinator after Aaron Glenn’s departure. Campbell acknowledged the adjustment period: “There’s trust and communication that takes time. But we’ll get there. That’s what these early NFL Preseason Begins games are for.”
Chargers Lean on Jim Harbaugh’s Leadership
The Chargers are entering NFL Preseason Begins with renewed optimism under Jim Harbaugh, who previously guided the San Francisco 49ers to a Super Bowl appearance in his second season back in 2012. Harbaugh is hoping to replicate that magic in Los Angeles.
He will give Trey Lance the start at quarterback in the opener. The 25-year-old former third overall pick has bounced around the league but has impressed during training camp. “He’s had a heck of a camp,” Harbaugh said. “I just want to get Trey Lance game experience. That’s critical as NFL Preseason Begins.”
Veteran Justin Herbert will sit out the game, while rookie DJ Uiagalelei, an undrafted free agent, is expected to take the field in the second half. Veteran Taylor Heinicke will be available as the emergency third quarterback.
The Chargers will also showcase rookie running back Omarion Hampton, the 22nd overall pick, and wide receiver Tre Harris, a second-round selection. Both players are eager to make a statement as NFL Preseason Begins.
Hall of Fame Game Sets the Stage for the Season
The Hall of Fame Game is more than just an exhibition; it symbolizes the beginning of a new football journey. Held just two days before the Pro Football Hall of Fame induction ceremony, it allows teams to evaluate new players, test schemes, and build chemistry.
For the Lions, NFL Preseason Begins as a chance to regain their confidence after last year’s postseason disappointment. For the Chargers, it is an opportunity to lay the foundation of a championship-caliber team under Harbaugh.
Fans will be watching closely to see which young players can step up and earn a spot on the 53-man roster. The Lions’ top two draft picks, defensive tackle Tyleik Williams and guard Tate Ratledge, won’t play in the game, but several depth players will look to impress.
Key Storylines as NFL Preseason Begins
- Lions’ Redemption: After a historic regular season and a painful playoff loss, Detroit enters NFL Preseason Begins focused on proving last year was no fluke.
- Harbaugh’s Debut: Jim Harbaugh’s return to the NFL sidelines is one of the most anticipated moments as NFL Preseason Begins. Can he quickly mold the Chargers into contenders?
- Backup QB Battles: Both teams will use the Hall of Fame Game to evaluate their quarterback depth. Hendon Hooker and Kyle Allen are vying for the Lions’ backup job, while Trey Lance gets a crucial audition with the Chargers.
- Rookies on Display: The exhibition will be a proving ground for first-year players like Omarion Hampton and Tre Harris.
Coaches Embrace the Grind
Dan Campbell remains as passionate as ever about the work required for success. “There’s a price to be paid to get yourself back into the dance,” he said as NFL Preseason Begins. “If we let that slide at all, we won’t be where we want to be. That’s why these games matter.”
Harbaugh shares a similar philosophy. While the final score of the Hall of Fame Game won’t determine a championship, the preparation and effort are vital. “Every rep counts,” he said. “NFL Preseason Begins with opportunities, and we’re going to take full advantage of them.”
Looking Ahead
The Hall of Fame Game is just the start of a long journey. Once NFL Preseason Begins, teams have limited time to evaluate talent, install new systems, and prepare for the grueling regular season.
For the Lions and Chargers, the stakes are clear. Both franchises have the talent to make deep postseason runs, but consistency and depth will be key. As the lights shine on Canton, Ohio, Thursday night, the message is simple: NFL Preseason Begins, and the quest for the Lombardi Trophy starts now.
Why This Matters
With so much talent on display and new leadership shaping both franchises, the Hall of Fame Game carries significant weight. Whether it’s seeing rookies take their first professional snaps or veterans returning to form, the energy surrounding the matchup highlights why fans love this time of year.
As NFL Preseason Begins, the Lions and Chargers are determined to prove they belong in the championship conversation. This game is the first step on that path.