News Summary
The 2025 NFL preseason begins with the Pro Football Hall of Fame Game, featuring the Detroit Lions and Los Angeles Chargers. Both teams look to improve after disappointing playoff exits last season. Key starting quarterbacks are expected to sit out, with a competitive battle shaping up for the Chargers. The Lions are favored by 1.5 points, additional insights on betting odds, coaching changes, and the upcoming Hall of Fame enshrinement ceremony are also highlighted.
Canton, Ohio – The 2025 NFL preseason kicks off this Thursday with the highly anticipated Pro Football Hall of Fame Game, featuring the Detroit Lions facing off against the Los Angeles Chargers. The game is set for an 8 p.m. ET kickoff at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium.
Both teams are looking to rebound from disappointing postseason exits last year. The Detroit Lions finished the 2024 season with an impressive 15-2 record, securing the top seed in the NFC. In contrast, the Los Angeles Chargers recorded an 11-6 finish, claiming second place in the AFC West. Despite their strong regular-season performances, both teams fell short in their respective playoff matches and are eager to contend for the championship this coming season.
As preseason games typically feature fewer star players, the starting quarterbacks for both teams are expected to sit out the matchup. Lions quarterback Jared Goff has not participated in a preseason game since 2022. Similarly, Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert has never thrown a preseason pass in his five-year career, making their absence likely.
In terms of betting odds, the Lions are favored by 1.5 points, with an over/under total points scored set at 32.5. Detroit stands as a -135 money-line favorite, while the Chargers sit at +114.
The matchup is marked by notable coaching changes, particularly for the Lions, who have lost both their coordinators to head coaching positions. Meanwhile, Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh and general manager Joe Horvitz are entering their second year with the team, aiming to build upon last season’s efforts.
The Lions have proven to be resilient during recent preseason outings, recording a 4-2 straight-up performance over the last two years. In preparation for the season, the Chargers are focusing on bolstering their running game with rookie Omarion Hampton and the recently signed Najee Harris, who will not participate in this game.
As for the quarterback situation for the Chargers, a competitive battle is anticipated, featuring Trey Lance expected to start, followed by DJ Uiagalelei who is anticipated to play in the second half. Veteran Taylor Heinicke will not be on the field for this game. Historical trends indicate that underdogs have triumphed in the Hall of Fame Game for the past three seasons, adding an intriguing layer to this matchup.
This game also serves as a precursor to the enshrinement ceremony for the Class of 2025, including celebrated players such as Antonio Gates, Eric Allen, Jared Allen, and Sterling Sharpe, which takes place on August 2.
The Hall of Fame Game will be broadcast on NBC, featuring football commentators Mike Tirico and Cris Collinsworth. Fans can also stream the game through NFL+. Additionally, new users interested in placing bets may take advantage of promotional offerings from various platforms, including bonuses after placing minimum wagers.
Expert predictions and analysis surrounding the game are available to those interested in detailed insights as the season approaches. With excitement building, the stage is set for what promises to be an engaging start to the NFL preseason.
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Additional Resources
- NFL.com: 2025 Hall of Fame Week How to Watch
- Wikipedia: Pro Football Hall of Fame Game
- NBC: 2025 Pro Football Hall of Fame Game How to Watch
- Google Search: 2025 NFL Preseason
- Action Network: 2025 Hall of Fame Game Betting Promos
- Encyclopedia Britannica: National Football League
