Game Recap

RB Amar Johnson scored two rushing touchdowns and D.J. Uiagalelei threw another as the Chargers beat down Houston 27-7. The Chargers defense set a physical tone early, shutting down the Texans’ offense after their opening drive and recording a massive fourth-down goal-line stop. Under new Offensive Coordinator Mike McDaniel, the offense established its identity by leaning heavily on a hard-nosed running game. Running back Amar Johnson stole the show, breaking loose for a 55-yard reception to the 1-yard line before capping the drive with a short touchdown plunge and a successful two-point conversion. You could just tell the Chargers came ready to play!

go off, amar !!! pic.twitter.com/k5F37BJcqg

— Los Angeles Chargers (@chargers) August 14, 2026

The quarterback protection looked incredibly efficient executing the new system. Trey Lance started under center and moved the chains effectively before giving way to DJ Uiagalelei, who provided immediate sparks through the air, including a 3-yard touchdown strike to Devonte Ross. Undrafted rookie linebacker Lander Barton added to the dominant defensive display by securing a crucial fumble recovery to firmly put the game away. Anytime a defense only allows 7 points all night, its a sign of a great defensive performane. Dicker the Kicker did have a rare missed a PAT.

Team Statistics

Key Individual Stats

Passing

Trey Lance: 12/20, 164 yards, 0 TD, 1 INT (65.4 RTG)

DJ Uiagalelei: 6/9, 120 yards, 1 TD, 0 INT (146.8 RTG) []

Rushing

• Trey Lance: 3 carries, 27 yards
• Gregory Desrosiers: 10 carries, 27 yards
• Jaret Patterson: 5 carries, 25 yards
• Amar Johnson: 6 carries, 17 yards, 2 TDs [1]

Receiving

• Amar Johnson: 2 receptions, 68 yards
• KeAndre Lambert-Smith: 4 receptions, 58 yards
• Johnny Pascuzzi: 3 receptions, 39 yards
• Devonte Ross: 2 receptions, 14 yards, 1 TD [1]

Defense & Special Teams

• Jahmeer Carter: 1 sack, 2 tackles for loss
• Lander Barton: 1 fumble recovery
• Cameron Dicker: 2/2 Field Goals (Long of 48), 1/2 Extra Point

The Los Angeles Chargers will host the San Francisco 49ers for their next preseason matchup on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at SoFi Stadium.

Game Details

• Kickoff Time: 7:00 PM PDT
• Location: SoFi Stadium (Inglewood, CA)
• Local TV Broadcast: CBS2 LA
• National TV Broadcast: NFL Network

Matchup Outlook

This game marks the 52nd preseason meeting between the two historic California franchises, making the 49ers the Chargers’ most frequent exhibition opponent in franchise history. Because the coaching staff will want to keep building continuity in Offensive Coordinator Mike McDaniel’s dynamic system, expect another extended look at quarterbacks Trey Lance and DJ Uiagalelei against a highly talented San Francisco defensive unit.

Additionally, the running back room will be a major point of focus. Head Coach Jim Harbaugh and McDaniel have noted they plan to use a “hot hand” approach in the backfield this season. Young backs like Amar Johnson and Gregory Desrosiers will look to build on tonight’s strong rushing momentum to solidify their roles in the rotation.

Interestingly, this exhibition serves as a direct preview of a high-stakes regular-season showdown, as the Chargers will host the 49ers right back at SoFi Stadium in Week 15 on Thursday Night Football.