The NFL preseason kicks off with the 2025 Hall of Fame Game, and sharp bettors know this is one of the best opportunities of the summer to find +EV bets … if you understand how to read the matchups. Tonight’s Chargers-Lions showdown isn’t just a ceremonial exhibition. With quarterback depth (hello, Trey Lance), coaching quotes and roster usage patterns, there’s real value buried in the Hall of Fame Game odds. Here’s what you need to know before getting into your first taste of NFL preseason betting.
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Hall of Fame Game Odds: Chargers-Lions Best Bets & Trey Lance
Unlike regular-season games, NFL preseason betting is about interpreting limited but valuable information. That’s especially true in the Hall of Fame Game, which gives both teams an extra preseason contest. This means deeper rotations, more conservative play calling and (sometimes) an edge for the side with more stable or talented second- and third-string units.
The most important piece of information in any preseason matchup is who’s under center, and how long they’re expected to stay there. In tonight’s case, all eyes are on Chargers quarterback Trey Lance.
The Trey Lance Factor
Lance is expected to start for the Chargers and play into the third quarter. That’s a significant edge in a game where most starters won’t see the field.
Last year, Lance led the entire NFL in preseason dropbacks. His production was uninspiring, but the opportunity was there. This time around, he’ll be playing in a Greg Roman offense, a system that historically caters to mobile quarterbacks like Lamar Jackson.
That’s meaningful. Roman’s playbook emphasizes structure, tempo and designed runs, exactly what Lance needs to succeed. He’ll also have talented rookies like Omarion Hampton and Tre Harris on the field, giving him real weapons against a Lions defense that will be deep into its second unit.
What to Expect from the Lions
Dan Campbell made his philosophy clear this week: He wants his quarterbacks to keep it simple. His quote:
“Don’t try to do anything flashy. Do what you’re asked to do … even if that means we’ve got to punt, that’s OK.”
The Lions will rotate between Hendon Hooker and Kyle Allen, and Campbell has already ruled out top draft picks. This appears to be a tune-up game, not one they’re trying to win.
Detroit’s coaching staff is also breaking in new offensive and defensive coordinators. That adds another layer of conservatism. Don’t expect big swings or extended drives.
Best Bet for Hall of Fame Game Odds
The Chargers are available at +105 on the moneyline at bet365, and that’s where the value is. With Lance playing deep, Roman calling plays and Detroit pulling back its top talent, Los Angeles has the better setup, especially early in the game.
We’re staying away from the total (32.5), which is tough to handicap given late-game uncertainty and third-string rotations.
