Fourth-Quarter Surge Decides Game
The Los Angeles Chargers pulled away from the Houston Texans in the final period, outscoring their hosts 21-0 to claim a 27-7 victory in their preseason opener at NRG Stadium on Friday, August 14, 2026. While the contest remained tight through the first half, the Chargers’ offensive efficiency in the fourth quarter proved insurmountable for Houston.
The game began with defensive battles, but Los Angeles struck first in the opening period when Cameron Dicker connected on a 34-yard field goal to take a 3-0 lead. The Texans responded quickly, with Davis Mills finding Jared Wayne on a 5-yard pass, followed by a Chris Freeman extra point, to seize a 7-3 advantage.
However, the momentum shifted in the second quarter when Amar Johnson broke loose for a 7-yard run. Cameron Dicker’s kick tied the game at 7-7, giving the Chargers their first lead of the contest.
Offensive Production in the Second Half
The Chargers’ offense found its rhythm in the third quarter as Dicker added another field goal, this time from 48 yards out, pushing the lead to 13-7. The decisive blow came in the fourth quarter. Johnson scored again, this time on a 1-yard run, and converted a two-point conversion by running the ball himself, extending the Chargers' advantage to 21-7.
Los Angeles sealed the win late in the game. DJ Uiagalelei connected with Devonte Ross on a 3-yard touchdown pass. Although the subsequent point-after attempt failed, the six points were enough to secure the margin. The final score stood at 27-7.
