Chargers’ Defense Dominates in 27-13 Preseason Win Over Saints

Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times

LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Chargers leaned on a stout defense and timely big plays to defeat the New Orleans Saints 27-13 in Sunday’s preseason clash at SoFi Stadium. It wasn’t the most polished offensive outing for Jim Harbaugh’s team, but the Chargers’ defense dictated the tone from start to finish — forcing turnovers, recording five sacks, and stifling New Orleans in key situations. Rookie defensive back Eric Rogers delivered the highlight of the night with a 43-yard interception return for a touchdown early in the fourth quarter. The pick-six gave Los Angeles a commanding lead, though Rogers later exited with an injury.

“That was as good a play as I’ve ever seen,” Harbaugh said. “I love guys that play like they want to be on this team.”

The Chargers also came up big at the goal line and forced a pivotal strip-sack in the first half. Rookie Jamaree Caldwell recorded a nine-yard sack on Tyler Shough in the third quarter, while Caleb Murphy brought down Saints starter Spencer Rattler twice in the second quarter. Trey Lance, in the middle of a crowded quarterback competition, was the most productive signal-caller for Los Angeles. He completed 7 of 14 passes for 55 yards and led the team in rushing with 48 yards on seven carries, including a five-yard touchdown scramble. Taylor Heinicke started but completed just one pass for eight yards, while rookie DJ Uiagalelei connected on a 49-yard bomb to Dalevon Campbell late in the game. Kicker Cameron Dicker chipped in two field goals from 44 and 40 yards to round out the Chargers’ scoring. New Orleans rotated three quarterbacks, with Shough providing the biggest spark. He finished 15 of 22 for 165 yards and a 54-yard touchdown pass to Mason Tipton. However, his third-quarter interception to Rogers proved costly. Rattler, the starter, struggled under defensive pressure, and Jake Haener was unable to generate momentum late. “For all three, there’s going to be some good moments, some moments we’d like to have back,” Saints head coach Kellen Moore said.

Injury NotesThe Saints saw center/guard Will Clapp leave the game on the second play of the first quarter, while receiver Bub Means and tight end Mason Pline also exited with injuries. For the Chargers, defensive back Deane Leonard and guard Karsen Barnhart both left the field in the second half.

What’s NextThe Chargers will meet their crosstown rivals, the Los Angeles Rams, on Aug. 16. The Saints return home to face the Jacksonville Jaguars on Aug. 17.