ALLEN PARK — The captivating appeal of the Detroit Lions in prime-time has now officially arrived in the preseason.
For the first time since 1991, the Lions will kick off the NFL’s on-field activities for the year, taking on Jim Harbaugh’s Los Angeles Chargers in the yearly Hall of Fame Game held in Canton, Ohio.
The preseason opener last year featuring the Chicago Bears and Houston Texans took place on August 1, so adjust your calendars, as this year’s preseason is beginning sooner. The Lions and Chargers will face each other on July 31 in Canton. It’s 8 o’clock in the evening. Thursday evening start that will air on NBC.
“This matchup showcases two squads that can be deemed genuine contenders for a spot in Super Bowl LX next February,” said Jim Porter, president and CEO of the Pro Football Hall of Fame in a statement.
“Their matchup straight away in Canton, Ohio, is sure to set an exciting tone for another amazing NFL season.”
The Lions and Chargers had the longest absences from the preseason kick-off event, and both generate a certain intrigue, making this logical.
The Lions have participated in the preseason opener on three occasions. They defeated the Denver Broncos in 1991, were defeated by the Denver Broncos in 1976, and lost to Washington in 1965, so it’s been some time.