Who Should I Start? Taylor Heinicke or Trey Lance

Sunday, August 10, 8:51 PM

Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Taylor Heinicke had a very rough outing in his first preseason game, leading all three drives in the first quarter against the New Orleans Saints. The 32-year-old is competing with Trey Lance to be Justin Herbert's backup, looked inaccurate and stiff, and sailed the ball multiple times. He finished with only one completion for five yards and also took a safety that was later overturned. Heinicke's 2024 season as a backup with the Chargers saw him complete just three passes for 28 yards, and this performance does little to cement his hold on the backup role.

Sunday, August 10, 9:00 PM

Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Trey Lance started the second quarter of the team's 27-13 preseason win against the New Orleans Saints and eventually led a 14-play, 85-yard scoring drive towards the end of the half. The 25-year-old, a former first-round pick, got it done more with his legs than his arm, completing seven of 14 passes for 55 yards through the air while rushing for 48 yards and a touchdown on seven carries. Although he was up and down with his accuracy and had a fumbled snap, Lance looked confident and poised, building off the momentum he gained in the Hall of Fame Game last week. Overall, Lance easily outplayed backup Taylor Heinicke and made a strong case to be Justin Herbert's primary backup this season.