RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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The Chargers opened their 2026 preseason with a convincing 27-7 victory over the Texans at Reliant Stadium.
Here is our recap of the preseason opener:
It was over when...
Quarterback DJ Uiagalelei connected with wide receiver Devonte Ross for a three-yard touchdown pass with just over 10 minutes remaining in the fourth quarter. The score capitalized on a fumble recovery by undrafted rookie linebacker Lander Barton. It extended the Chargers' lead to a comfortable 27-7 cushion.
3 stars of the game
QB DJ Uiagalelei : 120 passing yards, 1 touchdown, 146.8 passer rating.
RB Amar Johnson : 85 total yards, 2 rushing touchdowns, two-point conversion
WR KeAndre Lambert-Smith : 4 receptions, 58 yards.
Quick hits
Quarterback Trey Lance started under center with the opportunity to make his case to be Justin Herbert's primary backup, but put up a mixed performance. Lance threw for 164 yards but was plagued by some turnover-worthy throws, including a costly interception. He finished with a 65.4 passer rating.
Quarterback DJ Uiagalelei pulled ahead in the quarterback battle with a highly efficient outing, completing crisp passes for 120 yards and a striking touchdown to wide receiver Devonte Ross.
Running back Amar Johnson found the end zone twice on the ground and broke open a massive 55-yard reception to lead the team in total yards.
Wide receiver KeAndre Lambert-Smith was a reliable spark plug for the offense, moving the chains effectively with a team-high 4 catches.
Tight end Johnny Pascuzzi also had himself a day, proving to be a highly dependable target with 3 catches for 39 yards.
Rookie Jake Slaughter started at center, but I was particularly impressed with his performance at left guard. Slaughter kept defenders at bay in pass protection and identified stunts really well, while also showing athleticism at the second level in the run game.
Branson Taylor got some run at left guard and both tackle spots, also showing some good stuff in pass pro.
Kayode Awosika, who started at right guard, hardly played in this game, which could indicate that the starting left guard is his job to lose.
On the defensive side, Chris O'Leary's unit was stiff. After allowing an opening-series touchdown, they went on to produce three turnovers, five punts, and zero points.
Defensive lineman Jahmeer Carter logged a sack. TeRah Edwards and Jacobian Guillory II also flashed in the trenches.
Cornerback Avery Smith broke up a pass and made a tackle for loss.
Safety Kendall Williamson and linebacker Emany Johnson came on strong as open-field tacklers, with each making a stop behind the line of scrimmage for a tackle for loss.
Linebacker Lander Barton recovered a fumble.
Wide receiver Derius Davis is the frontrunner to be the starting punt returner, but it's worth noting that they had three others field punts: Wide receivers Brenen Thompson, Luke Grimm, and Devonte Ross.
What's next?
The Chargers will continue practicing before heading back to SoFi Stadium for their second preseason matchup against the 49ers on Thursday, August 20.
This article originally appeared on Chargers Wire: Chargers top Texans in preseason opener: Recap of LA's win
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