New Orleans Saints vs Los Angeles Chargers Match Player Stats
The New Orleans Saints vs Los Angeles Chargers Match Player Stats from the August 11, 2025, NFL preseason game reveal how rushing efficiency, defensive pressure, and turnovers shaped a 27-13 victory for Los Angeles. The Chargers produced two rushing touchdowns and two interceptions returned by Eric Rogers, including a defensive touchdown, while New Orleans generated its most notable offensive highlight through Mason Tipton’s 54-yard touchdown reception. Although the Saints recorded more passing yards, Los Angeles made better use of its ground game and created decisive scoring opportunities through its defense. The final score tells only part of the story, so examining the individual player statistics provides a clearer understanding of how the contest unfolded.
Game details at a glance
| Match detail | Information |
| Matchup | New Orleans Saints vs Los Angeles Chargers |
| Date | August 11, 2025 |
| Competition | NFL preseason |
| Venue designation | Chargers listed as the home team |
| Final score | Chargers 27, Saints 13 |
| Winning team | Los Angeles Chargers |
| Losing team | New Orleans Saints |
| Saints passing yards | 239 |
| Chargers passing yards | 100 |
| Saints rushing yards | 61 |
| Chargers rushing yards | 148 |
| Saints passing touchdowns | 1 |
| Chargers rushing touchdowns | 2 |
| Chargers defensive interceptions | 2 |
| Defensive touchdown credited to | Eric Rogers |
The statistics in this breakdown are based on the supplied ESPN box-score data for the game. Where the source’s displayed team totals do not align perfectly with its individual player entries, those differences are identified rather than silently corrected. Because this was a preseason matchup, the figures should be interpreted as evidence of performance in this particular game, not as a complete measure of either team’s regular-season strength.
New Orleans Saints vs Los Angeles Chargers Match Player Stats: Final Score and Quarter-by-Quarter Breakdown
The Chargers won 27-13, but the scoring pattern shows that the teams remained close early before Los Angeles established a more comfortable advantage in the second half.
| Quarter | New Orleans Saints | Los Angeles Chargers |
| First quarter | 0 | 0 |
| Second quarter | 3 | 9 |
| Third quarter | 7 | 8 |
| Fourth quarter | 3 | 10 |
| Final score | 13 | 27 |
Neither team scored in the opening quarter. The Chargers then scored nine points in the second quarter, while New Orleans managed a field goal. Los Angeles added eight points in the third quarter and ten in the fourth, compared with seven and three points respectively for the Saints.
The second-half scoring difference is especially important. New Orleans showed it could produce a touchdown after halftime, but the Saints could not maintain enough scoring momentum to overcome the Chargers’ combination of rushing production and defensive takeaways.
A preseason score must also be understood in context. Coaches use these games to evaluate developing players, test different combinations, and assess execution under game conditions. A 27-13 result provides useful evidence about the performances recorded that night, but it does not independently establish how either team would perform with its regular-season lineup.
Saints Player Stats: Passing Performance
New Orleans used three quarterbacks during the contest: Spencer Rattler, Tyler Shough, and Jake Haener. Their combined numbers show that the passing game produced yardage, but turnovers and sacks reduced its overall effectiveness.
| Quarterback | Completions/Attempts | Passing Yards | TDs | INTs | Sacks |
| Tyler Shough | 15/22 | 165 | 1 | 1 | 2 |
| Spencer Rattler | 7/11 | 53 | 0 | 0 | 3 |
| Jake Haener | 5/8 | 41 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| Team total | 27/41 | 239 | 1 | 2 | 5 |
Tyler Shough: The Most Productive Saints Passer
Tyler Shough delivered the strongest passing performance for New Orleans by yardage and touchdown production. He completed 15 of 22 attempts for 165 yards and a touchdown, finishing with an 86.4 passer rating according to the supplied box score.
His completion percentage was approximately 68.2%, while his average gain was 7.5 yards per attempt. Those figures indicate that he was able to complete passes consistently and generate meaningful yardage.
Shough’s most memorable play came when he connected with Mason Tipton for a 54-yard touchdown. The throw gave the Saints an immediate scoring response after Los Angeles had extended its advantage to 17-3.
However, his performance also included two sacks for 12 yards lost and an interception returned for a touchdown by Eric Rogers. The interception was particularly costly because it produced points for the Chargers without requiring their offense to complete a scoring drive.
The key lesson from Shough’s outing is that passing production and overall quarterback efficiency are not interchangeable. His yardage and touchdown were encouraging, but the turnover had a direct impact on the result.
Spencer Rattler: A Difficult Start Under Pressure
Spencer Rattler completed seven of 11 passes for 53 yards, with no passing touchdowns or interceptions in the supplied individual statistics. He averaged 4.8 yards per attempt and recorded a 75.2 passer rating.
Rattler also rushed three times for 22 yards, averaging 7.3 yards per carry. His longest run covered 11 yards, making his mobility a useful part of his contribution.
The main concern was the pressure he faced. Rattler was sacked three times in the supplied player statistics, while the game recap specifically highlights two second-quarter sacks by Caleb Murphy. One of those plays resulted in a forced fumble recovered by Justin Eboigbe, setting up the Chargers’ first points.
This sequence demonstrates why quarterback evaluation must consider more than completions and interceptions. A quarterback can avoid throwing an interception and still lose valuable possession through a sack and fumble.
Rattler’s rushing numbers were a positive, but the pressure-related mistakes limited his ability to build sustained offensive drives.
Jake Haener: Limited Production and a Costly Turnover
Jake Haener completed five of eight attempts for 41 yards. He did not throw a touchdown, and his interception contributed to the Saints’ two-interception total.
His 35.9 passer rating was the lowest among the three New Orleans quarterbacks in the supplied data.
Haener’s small sample makes it difficult to draw broad conclusions about his ability. Eight passing attempts provide only a narrow view of a quarterback’s decision-making, accuracy, and command of an offense.
Nevertheless, the interception matters when reviewing this particular game. Eric Rogers secured his second interception against New Orleans in the fourth quarter, reinforcing the defensive performance that had already changed the scoreboard.
What the Saints’ Passing Numbers Reveal
The Saints completed 27 of 41 passes for 239 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions. Their 65.9% completion rate was respectable, but five sacks and the two turnovers complicated the overall picture.
Three findings stand out:
- Passing volume: New Orleans attempted 21 more passes than Los Angeles, reflecting a greater reliance on the passing game.
- Turnover cost: Both Saints interceptions went to Eric Rogers, with one returned for a touchdown.
- Protection problems: Five sacks cost New Orleans 20 yards and disrupted offensive possessions.
The Saints’ passing game was not entirely ineffective. Shough’s touchdown and the team’s 239 passing yards showed an ability to move the ball through the air. The greater challenge was turning that production into points without giving the opponent additional scoring opportunities.
Chargers Player Stats: Quarterback Performance
Los Angeles used Trey Lance, DJ Uiagalelei, and Taylor Heinicke at quarterback. Their combined passing production was modest, but Lance’s running ability and the team’s defensive contributions helped compensate for the limited passing output.
| Quarterback | Completions/Attempts | Passing Yards | TDs | INTs | Sacks |
| Trey Lance | 7/14 | 55 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| DJ Uiagalelei | 1/1 | 49 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Taylor Heinicke | 1/5 | 8 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| Team total | 9/20 | 100 | 0 | 0 | 3 |
Trey Lance: Rushing Ability Made the Difference
Trey Lance completed seven of 14 passes for 55 yards, with no passing touchdowns or interceptions. His passing average was 3.9 yards per attempt, and his listed passer rating was 60.1.
Those numbers alone do not explain his contribution.
Lance rushed seven times for 48 yards, averaging 6.9 yards per carry. He scored a rushing touchdown on a five-yard run in the second quarter, giving Los Angeles its first touchdown of the game.
His rushing ability also helped the Chargers sustain possessions. The official game recap describes important scrambles that moved the chains and advanced the ball into scoring territory.
Lance’s performance illustrates the value of a quarterback who can contribute as a runner when passing opportunities are limited. A quarterback’s rushing production can force defenders to account for another threat, potentially creating space for running backs and receivers.
It is equally important not to overstate the evidence. One preseason appearance cannot establish how consistently a quarterback will perform against different defensive schemes. Still, Lance’s 48 rushing yards and touchdown were concrete contributions to the win.
DJ Uiagalelei: A Memorable Deep Completion
DJ Uiagalelei attempted only one pass and completed it for 49 yards. The completion came on a late-game connection with Dalevon Campbell.
That single throw produced almost half of the Chargers’ listed team passing yards. It also demonstrated the potential impact of an explosive completion, even when the overall passing volume is low.
His sample size was extremely small, however. A single successful attempt cannot establish consistent accuracy, pocket performance, or decision-making across a full game.
Uiagalelei also recorded one rushing attempt for minus-one yard. His main statistical contribution was therefore the long passing completion rather than sustained quarterback play.
Taylor Heinicke: A Quiet Passing Line
Taylor Heinicke completed one of five attempts for eight yards, with no passing touchdowns or interceptions. He was sacked once for a loss of seven yards and finished with a 39.6 passer rating.
His numbers indicate a difficult passing sequence, but they should be interpreted within the limited opportunity recorded in this exhibition.
The Chargers did not need their quarterbacks to generate a large passing total to win. Their rushing attack, defensive turnovers, and ability to convert key opportunities into points provided the foundation for the final score.
Comparing the Two Quarterback Groups
| Statistical category | Saints | Chargers |
| Completions | 27 | 9 |
| Pass attempts | 41 | 20 |
| Passing yards | 239 | 100 |
| Passing touchdowns | 1 | 0 |
| Interceptions thrown | 2 | 0 |
| Sacks taken | 5 | 3 |
| Rushing yards | 61 | 148 |
| Rushing touchdowns | 0 | 2 |
New Orleans had the stronger passing output, while Los Angeles had the stronger rushing output. The Chargers also avoided throwing an interception in the supplied team totals.
This contrast is central to understanding the game. The Saints moved the ball more effectively through the air in terms of total yardage, but the Chargers built their offense around a more productive ground attack and benefited from defensive scoring.
Rushing Stats: How the Chargers Controlled the Ground Game
The rushing comparison provides one of the clearest explanations for the outcome. Los Angeles recorded 148 rushing yards on 34 attempts, while New Orleans managed 61 yards on 20 attempts.
| Team | Carries | Rushing Yards | Yards per Carry | Rushing TDs |
| New Orleans Saints | 20 | 61 | 3.1 | 0 |
| Los Angeles Chargers | 34 | 148 | 4.4 | 2 |
Los Angeles gained 87 more rushing yards and averaged approximately 1.3 more yards per attempt. The Chargers also scored both of their listed rushing touchdowns, making their ground production more valuable on the scoreboard.
Saints Rushing Leaders
| Player | Carries | Yards | Average | Longest Run |
| Spencer Rattler | 3 | 22 | 7.3 | 11 |
| Kendre Miller | 6 | 15 | 2.5 | 8 |
| Cam Akers | 4 | 9 | 2.3 | 3 |
| Jake Haener | 1 | 7 | 7.0 | 7 |
| Clyde Edwards-Helaire | 4 | 6 | 1.5 | 2 |
| Tyler Shough | 1 | 3 | 3.0 | 3 |
| Velus Jones Jr. | 1 | -1 | -1.0 | -1 |
Spencer Rattler led the Saints in rushing yards despite carrying the ball only three times. His 22 yards reflected his ability to gain ground outside conventional passing plays.
Kendre Miller received six carries but gained 15 yards, averaging 2.5 yards per attempt. Cam Akers and Clyde Edwards-Helaire also struggled to generate substantial yardage on their recorded opportunities.
The combined numbers suggest that New Orleans had difficulty producing consistent gains on the ground. Although Rattler’s mobility offered some explosive potential, the Saints did not record a rushing touchdown.
Chargers Rushing Leaders
| Player | Carries | Yards | Average | TDs | Longest Run |
| Trey Lance | 7 | 48 | 6.9 | 1 | 17 |
| Raheim Sanders | 10 | 42 | 4.2 | 1 | 14 |
| Hassan Haskins | 6 | 33 | 5.5 | 0 | 12 |
| Kimani Vidal | 6 | 16 | 2.7 | 0 | 9 |
| Nyheim Hines | 4 | 10 | 2.5 | 0 | 9 |
| DJ Uiagalelei | 1 | -1 | -1.0 | 0 | -1 |
Trey Lance led the Chargers in rushing yards, gaining 48 on seven carries and scoring a touchdown. His average of 6.9 yards per carry made him the most productive runner in the listed Chargers group by average gain among players with positive yardage.
Raheim Sanders contributed 42 yards on ten carries and added a rushing touchdown. His 11-yard scoring run in the fourth quarter helped extend the Chargers’ lead to 27-10.
Hassan Haskins also provided useful depth, gaining 33 yards on six attempts. His 5.5-yard average gave Los Angeles another runner capable of producing meaningful gains.
The value of this rushing distribution was not limited to total yardage. Multiple contributors kept the ground game productive, while Lance’s mobility added another challenge for the Saints’ defense.
Why the Rushing Difference Matters
A strong running game can help an offense in several ways:
- It creates opportunities to gain first downs without relying exclusively on passing.
- It gives quarterbacks options when defensive pressure limits throwing opportunities.
- It can help an offense sustain possessions and improve its chances near the goal line.
- It forces defenders to account for both running backs and mobile quarterbacks.
The Chargers benefited from these advantages during the game. Their 148 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns contrasted sharply with the Saints’ 61 yards and zero rushing scores.
The statistics do not prove that rushing alone decided the contest, because the defensive touchdown was also a major factor. They do show that Los Angeles had a clear advantage in ground production.
Receiving Stats: Mason Tipton and Dalevon Campbell Lead the Highlights
The receiving numbers reveal an important contrast. New Orleans produced more total receiving yardage and the game’s featured passing touchdown, while Los Angeles had a notable long completion and a more productive rushing attack.
Saints Receiving Leaders
| Receiver | Receptions | Yards | Yards per Reception | TDs | Longest Catch |
| Mason Tipton | 1 | 54 | 54.0 | 1 | 54 |
| Kevin Austin Jr. | 4 | 42 | 10.5 | 0 | 17 |
| Cedrick Wilson Jr. | 3 | 37 | 12.3 | 0 | 21 |
| Dante Pettis | 2 | 25 | 12.5 | 0 | 16 |
| Velus Jones Jr. | 4 | 16 | 4.0 | 0 | 13 |
| Marcus Yarns | 3 | 15 | 5.0 | 0 | 5 |
| Treyton Welch | 3 | 14 | 4.7 | 0 | 8 |
| Bub Means | 1 | 12 | 12.0 | 0 | 12 |
| Brandin Cooks | 1 | 10 | 10.0 | 0 | 10 |
The table highlights the leading listed receivers and is not a complete receiving roster.
Mason Tipton’s 54-Yard Touchdown
Mason Tipton delivered the most productive individual receiving play for New Orleans. He caught one pass for 54 yards and a touchdown.
His reception came in the third quarter after the Chargers had taken a 17-3 lead. The touchdown cut the margin to 17-10 and gave the Saints a meaningful response.
The play demonstrates how a single explosive reception can change the feel of a game. Tipton generated more receiving yards on one catch than several teammates produced across multiple receptions.
However, a 54-yard reception should not be confused with consistent high-volume production. His single catch was exceptionally productive, but it provides limited evidence about his ability to generate similar results across a larger sample.
Kevin Austin Jr. and Cedrick Wilson Jr.
Kevin Austin Jr. led the Saints in receptions among the players listed, catching four passes for 42 yards. His longest reception was 17 yards, and he averaged 10.5 yards per catch.
Cedrick Wilson Jr. recorded three catches for 37 yards, averaging 12.3 yards per reception. His longest catch covered 21 yards.
Both players provided more than one receiving option for the Saints’ quarterbacks. Their production helped New Orleans distribute the ball rather than depending entirely on Tipton’s touchdown.
Dante Pettis added two receptions for 25 yards. However, his involvement also intersects with the game’s decisive defensive story because Rogers intercepted a pass intended for Pettis.
Chargers Receiving Leaders
| Receiver | Receptions | Yards | Listed Longest Catch | TDs |
| Dalevon Campbell | 2 listed in supplied data | 62 | 49 | 0 |
| Oronde Gadsden | 2 | 15 | 8 | 0 |
| Brenden Rice | 1 | 12 | 12 | 0 |
| Hassan Haskins | 2 | 12 | 8 | 0 |
| Raheim Sanders | 1 | 11 | 11 | 0 |
Dalevon Campbell led the listed Chargers receivers with 62 receiving yards. He was involved in the team’s most notable long passing completion, catching a 49-yard pass from Uiagalelei late in the contest.
There is a source discrepancy worth noting: the supplied statistical text lists Campbell with two receptions for 62 yards but displays an average of 20.7 yards per reception. That average corresponds to three receptions, not two. The official Saints box-score page lists him with three catches for 62 yards. The yardage total is consistent, but the reception count in the supplied text appears inconsistent.
Oronde Gadsden finished with two catches for 15 yards. Brenden Rice added a 12-yard reception, while Haskins and Sanders contributed as receivers out of the backfield.
Receiving Efficiency Versus Receiving Volume
The Saints recorded 259 gross receiving yards in the supplied individual receiving total, while the Chargers recorded 112. The teams’ net passing yard totals were lower because sacks count against net passing yardage.
The key difference is that New Orleans’ passing game generated more volume, including Tipton’s touchdown, but did not avoid turnovers. Los Angeles had fewer completions, yet its ground game and defense reduced the need for a high-volume passing performance.
Receiving statistics become more meaningful when considered alongside targets, touchdowns, sacks, and turnovers. A receiver can gain substantial yardage without scoring, while a single catch can have a large impact if it produces a touchdown.
Defensive Player Stats: Eric Rogers Changes the Game
The defensive performance was one of the most important parts of the result. Los Angeles recorded two interceptions, and Eric Rogers returned one for a touchdown. That play gave the Chargers points directly from their defense and created a major obstacle for the Saints.
Eric Rogers: Two Interceptions and a Defensive Touchdown
Rogers recorded two interceptions for 43 return yards in the supplied box-score statistics, with one interception returned for a touchdown.
His first interception came in the third quarter when Shough attempted a pass intended for Dante Pettis. Rogers read the route, intercepted the ball, and returned it for a score. The defensive touchdown helped push the Chargers’ lead to 17-3 before Tipton’s touchdown narrowed the margin.
Rogers later intercepted Haener in the fourth quarter. The second interception reinforced Los Angeles’ ability to disrupt New Orleans’ passing game when the Saints needed to make up ground.
This performance illustrates why interceptions should be evaluated by both frequency and consequence. An interception ends an offensive possession, but a pick-six also immediately changes the scoreboard. Rogers delivered both kinds of impact.
His performance was particularly important because the Chargers’ offense had not produced a passing touchdown. The defense supplied a scoring play that the passing game did not.
Team Defensive Comparison
| Defensive category | Saints | Chargers |
| Total tackles | 58 | 76 |
| Solo tackles | 41 | 51 |
| Sacks | 3 | 5 |
| Tackles for loss | 6 | 7 |
| Passes defended | 5 | 4 |
| Quarterback hits | 4 | 6 |
| Interceptions | 0 | 2 |
| Defensive touchdowns | 0 | 1 |
Los Angeles led in total tackles, solo tackles, sacks, tackles for loss, and quarterback hits. New Orleans recorded one more pass defended, but it did not secure an interception.
The Chargers’ five sacks were particularly important because they disrupted the Saints’ passing rhythm and contributed to lost yardage. The Saints recorded three sacks against the Chargers, so both defenses generated pressure, but Los Angeles produced more of it.
Caleb Murphy’s Impact on the Pass Rush
Caleb Murphy was a major contributor to the Chargers’ defensive pressure. The official team recap credits him with two sacks and a forced fumble.
One of his most consequential plays occurred early in the second quarter. Murphy stripped Rattler, and Justin Eboigbe recovered the ball. That turnover gave Los Angeles a favorable field position and helped set up its opening field goal.
The sequence shows how a defensive play can affect more than one statistical category. Murphy generated pressure, forced a fumble, and helped create a scoring opportunity. Eboigbe’s recovery completed the play’s immediate impact.
Why Turnovers Were More Important Than Raw Yardage
New Orleans gained more net total yards than Los Angeles according to the official team statistics, yet the Saints lost by 14 points.
The explanation is not that yardage is unimportant. Rather, yardage alone does not measure how efficiently a team converts possessions into points or how much damage it allows through turnovers.
The Saints threw two interceptions and lost one fumble. The Chargers also lost one fumble, but they avoided interceptions and returned one of their defensive interceptions for a touchdown.
The difference between the teams can be summarized through three observations:
- New Orleans moved the ball effectively through the air but did not protect the ball consistently.
- Los Angeles produced a more effective rushing attack and gained extra scoring value from its defense.
- The Chargers turned a defensive mistake into seven points, while the Saints had no comparable defensive scoring play.
This is why turnover analysis is essential when reviewing football statistics. A team can gain substantial yardage but still lose if its mistakes create short fields or direct points for the opposition.
Special Teams Stats: Kicking, Punting, and Returns
Special teams contributed to the final margin through field goals, extra points, kick returns, and field position. Both teams made their listed field goals, but the Chargers created more touchdowns through other phases of the game.
Kicking Statistics
| Team | Kicker | Field Goals | Longest Field Goal | Extra Points | Total Points |
| Saints | Blake Grupe | 1/1 | 31 yards | 0/0 | 3 |
| Saints | Charlie Smyth | 1/1 | 50 yards | 1/1 | 5 |
| Chargers | Cameron Dicker | 2/2 | 44 yards | 1/1 | 7 |
The supplied individual kicking statistics show Blake Grupe making a 31-yard field goal and Charlie Smyth converting a 50-yard field goal and an extra point. Together, the Saints’ kickers accounted for eight points.
Cameron Dicker made both of his field goals, from 44 and 40 yards, and converted one extra point according to the scoring summary. His recorded total was seven points.
Both teams were successful on their field-goal attempts. The difference was that the Chargers had additional scoring from their rushing attack and defensive touchdown.
The kicking data also shows why field goals cannot always compensate for missed touchdown opportunities. New Orleans converted its two field goals, but its only offensive touchdown came through the passing game.
Punting Statistics
| Team | Punter | Punts | Gross Punt Yards | Average | Longest Punt |
| Saints | Kai Kroeger | 3 | 139 | 46.3 | 52 yards |
| Saints | James Burnip | 3 | 101 | 33.7 | 38 yards |
| Chargers | JK Scott | 6 | 290 | 48.3 | 58 yards |
Kai Kroeger averaged 46.3 yards across three punts, with a long of 52 yards. James Burnip averaged 33.7 yards on three punts, and the supplied data credits him with two punts inside the 20-yard line.
JK Scott punted six times for 290 yards, averaging 48.3 yards per punt. His longest punt traveled 58 yards, and two of his punts were recorded inside the 20.
Punting can influence field position even when it does not directly affect the score. A long punt may force an opponent to cover more ground, while a well-placed punt can make it harder to establish a drive.
The raw averages do not fully describe punt quality because they do not show every return, bounce, or final field position. Even so, Scott’s average and longest punt were strong entries in the supplied statistical record.
Kick Return Statistics
| Team | Returns | Total Return Yards | Average | Longest Return |
| Saints | 4 | 134 | 33.5 | 46 yards |
| Chargers | 4 | 89 | 22.3 | 33 yards |
New Orleans had the better kick-return yardage total. Its four returns generated 134 yards, compared with 89 for Los Angeles.
Velus Jones Jr. recorded two returns for 73 yards, including a long return of 46 yards. Kendre Miller added a 36-yard return, while Jayden Price returned one kick for 25 yards.
For the Chargers, Nyheim Hines had two returns for 54 yards, with a long of 33. Dalevon Campbell and Kimani Vidal contributed 23 and 12 yards, respectively.
The Saints’ advantage in kick returns did not translate into a win. That is an important reminder that individual phase statistics must be considered within the entire game. Strong returns can improve starting field position, but the offense must still convert that advantage into points.
Punt Return Statistics
| Team | Returns | Total Yards | Average | Longest Return |
| Saints | 4 | 25 | 6.3 | 12 yards |
| Chargers | 3 | 7 | 2.3 | 7 yards |
New Orleans also led in punt-return yardage, recording 25 yards on four returns. Donovan Peoples-Jones gained 17 yards on two returns, while Dante Pettis added eight yards on two returns.
The Chargers recorded seven punt-return yards across three attempts. Luke Grimm gained seven yards on one return, while Hines’ two listed punt returns produced no net yardage.
These figures suggest that the Saints had better return production in both kick-return and punt-return categories. However, return yardage alone does not reveal the full quality of special teams. Blocking, penalties, ball security, and starting field position also matter.
Complete Team Statistics Comparison
The broader team statistics provide context for the individual performances and explain why the final score differed from the yardage comparison.
| Team statistic | Saints | Chargers |
| Total net yards | 300 | 248 |
| Net passing yards | 239 | 100 |
| Net rushing yards | 61 | 148 |
| Total offensive plays | 66 | 57 |
| First downs | 17 | 15 |
| Rushing attempts | 20 | 34 |
| Passing attempts | 41 | 20 |
| Completions | 27 | 9 |
| Interceptions thrown | 2 | 0 |
| Sacks taken | 5 | 3 |
| Third-down conversions | 3/13 | 6/14 |
| Fourth-down conversions | 0/1 | 0/0 |
| Penalties | 7 | 4 |
| Penalty yards | 56 | 18 |
| Fumbles lost | 1 | 1 |
| Time of possession | 31:08 | 28:52 |
Team figures are based on the official game statistics. Some individual aggregates in the supplied text differ from the team totals, so those values should not be combined without checking the underlying box score.
The Saints Gained More Total Yards
New Orleans recorded 300 net total yards, compared with 248 for Los Angeles. The Saints also recorded 17 first downs, two more than the Chargers.
These figures show that the Saints were not completely shut down offensively. They generated passing production and moved the chains often enough to finish ahead in total yardage.
However, total yards are a measure of advancement, not a direct measure of scoring success. The Saints’ passing turnovers and lack of rushing touchdowns weakened their ability to turn those yards into points.
The Chargers Were More Effective on Third Down
Los Angeles converted six of 14 third-down attempts, a rate of approximately 42.9%. New Orleans converted three of 13, or approximately 23.1%.
That difference indicates that the Chargers were more successful at keeping drives alive on third down.
Third-down efficiency is useful because it measures how often an offense converts a difficult situation into another set of downs. The Saints’ lower rate meant more drives were likely to end before reaching scoring position.
Third-down performance is not the sole measure of an offense, but it helps explain how the Chargers could finish with fewer total yards while still winning comfortably.
Penalties Added to New Orleans’ Challenges
The supplied official team statistics list seven Saints penalties for 56 yards, compared with four Chargers penalties for 18 yards.
The Saints therefore lost an additional 38 yards to penalties relative to Los Angeles. Penalties can erase successful plays, create longer third-down situations, and make it harder to sustain drives.
These figures support the view that New Orleans faced several execution problems. The combination of penalties, sacks, and interceptions created obstacles that raw passing yardage does not capture.
Possession Time Was Not the Deciding Factor
The Saints held the ball for 31 minutes and eight seconds, while the Chargers recorded 28 minutes and 52 seconds.
New Orleans had a possession-time advantage of two minutes and 16 seconds. Yet Los Angeles won by 14 points.
This difference reinforces a broader football principle: possessing the ball for longer is useful only when drives produce points or limit the opponent’s opportunities. The Chargers made better use of their key scoring chances, particularly through the rushing attack and defensive touchdown.
Key Turning Points in the Game
The statistical record becomes more meaningful when connected to the sequence of events that shaped the result.
1. Caleb Murphy’s Strip-Sack
The Chargers opened the scoring with a 44-yard field goal after Murphy forced a fumble from Rattler and Eboigbe recovered it. The turnover gave Los Angeles a shorter route to scoring territory.
2. Trey Lance’s Rushing Touchdown
Lance’s five-yard scoring run extended the Chargers’ lead to 9-0. His ability to run with the ball gave Los Angeles a touchdown without requiring a successful passing play.
3. Eric Rogers’ Pick-Six
Rogers intercepted Shough and returned the ball 43 yards for a touchdown in the third quarter. This was the game’s most significant defensive scoring play because it gave the Chargers points directly from a turnover.
4. Mason Tipton’s Long Touchdown Reception
Shough responded with a 54-yard touchdown pass to Tipton, reducing the deficit to seven points. The play showed that New Orleans could still produce an explosive offensive result.
5. Raheim Sanders’ Fourth-Quarter Touchdown
Sanders’ 11-yard rushing touchdown helped extend the Chargers’ advantage to 27-10. The Saints added a 50-yard field goal afterward, but they did not score another touchdown.
Taken together, these plays explain the final result more clearly than any single statistical category. Los Angeles produced points through rushing, defense, and field goals, while New Orleans relied more heavily on passing yardage and field-goal opportunities.
What These Player Statistics Mean for Preseason Evaluation
Preseason games offer a different kind of evidence from regular-season contests. Coaches often evaluate players across different combinations, give opportunities to younger athletes, and examine how players respond to mistakes.
The figures from this matchup suggest several areas worth examining.
Quarterback Decision-Making
The Saints’ three quarterbacks combined for two interceptions and five sacks. Shough’s 165 passing yards and touchdown were encouraging, but the pick-six demonstrated the cost of a single poor result.
Lance, meanwhile, had no interceptions in the supplied data and contributed significantly as a runner. His passing production was limited, so his overall performance should be judged through both his passing and rushing contributions.
Running Back Competition and Depth
The Chargers’ rushing total was spread across Lance, Sanders, Haskins, Vidal, and Hines. That distribution demonstrated multiple contributors could produce positive gains.
New Orleans received some useful mobility from Rattler, but its listed running backs did not generate the same collective output. More games and practice evidence would be needed to determine whether the difference reflected individual ability, blocking, defensive alignment, or the specific opportunities each player received.
Defensive Pressure and Ball Disruption
Murphy’s forced fumble and sacks, combined with Rogers’ two interceptions, provided concrete evidence of disruptive defensive plays.
These events were especially valuable in a preseason environment because they showed players creating turnovers under live-game conditions. However, one performance should not be treated as a guarantee of future production.
Special Teams Reliability
Both teams made their listed field goals, while the Saints produced better return yardage. These contrasting results show that special teams performance can be evaluated across several independent areas rather than through kicking accuracy alone.
Coaches may also consider coverage discipline, decision-making on returns, punt placement, and whether special teams errors put the defense under unnecessary pressure.
Where to Verify the Official Box Score
For readers who want to review the underlying player-by-player figures, the New Orleans Saints’ official box score for the Chargers game provides the passing, rushing, receiving, and team-statistics tables.
When comparing statistics across different websites, pay attention to the distinction between gross passing yards, net passing yards, and total net yards. Sacks affect net passing yardage, while total offensive yardage combines passing and rushing contributions. Differences in displayed aggregates can otherwise make accurate player performances appear inconsistent.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What was the final score of the New Orleans Saints vs Los Angeles Chargers game?
The Los Angeles Chargers defeated the New Orleans Saints 27-13 in their NFL preseason matchup in August 2025. Los Angeles scored two rushing touchdowns and a defensive touchdown, while New Orleans recorded one passing touchdown.
2. Who was the leading passer in the Saints vs Chargers game?
Tyler Shough led all listed quarterbacks with 165 passing yards for New Orleans. He completed 15 of 22 attempts, threw one touchdown, and recorded one interception.
3. Which player scored the defensive touchdown?
Eric Rogers of the Los Angeles Chargers returned an interception 43 yards for a touchdown. He recorded two interceptions in the game, making his defensive performance one of the defining factors in the result.
4. Who led the game in rushing yards?
Trey Lance led the listed players with 48 rushing yards on seven carries. He averaged 6.9 yards per carry and scored a rushing touchdown. The Chargers collectively recorded 148 rushing yards.
5. Who caught the longest touchdown pass?
Mason Tipton caught a 54-yard touchdown pass from Tyler Shough. The third-quarter score reduced the Chargers’ lead to 17-10 and was New Orleans’ only touchdown in the game.
6. Why did the Chargers win despite recording fewer total yards?
The Chargers gained 248 net total yards compared with the Saints’ 300, but they produced 148 rushing yards, scored two rushing touchdowns, and benefited from a defensive interception returned for a touchdown. New Orleans also threw two interceptions and took five sacks, limiting the value of its passing production.
Conclusion
The New Orleans Saints vs Los Angeles Chargers Match Player Stats show how different aspects of football can determine a result even when the losing team gains more total yards. Los Angeles secured a 27-13 preseason victory by combining an effective rushing attack, defensive pressure, and timely turnovers.
Trey Lance contributed 48 rushing yards and a touchdown, while Raheim Sanders added another rushing score. Eric Rogers was the standout defensive player with two interceptions and a pick-six. For New Orleans, Tyler Shough delivered 165 passing yards and a touchdown, and Mason Tipton produced the game’s longest touchdown reception with a 54-yard score.
The Saints finished with more total net yards and more possession time, but their two interceptions, five sacks, and lower third-down conversion rate made it harder to convert offensive production into points. The Chargers were more productive on the ground and capitalized on the opportunities created by their defense.
Ultimately, the game demonstrated the importance of ball security, third-down efficiency, rushing production, and defensive takeaways. These statistics provide a useful record of the preseason matchup while leaving room for further evaluation across a larger sample of games.
