Breaking down the numbers: Grading Detroit Lions QB Kyle Allen’s preseason performance versus the Los Angeles Chargers in Hall of Fame game

Photo Courtesy of Jeff Nguyen/Detroit Lions

By Nate McCray

In the NFL, preseason games are often seen as testing grounds, opportunities for backups to make statements and coaching staff to evaluate potential contributors. For Detroit Lions backup quarterback Kyle Allen, Thursday night’s Hall of Fame Game against the Los Angeles Chargers offered just that: a chance to command the huddle and flash his grasp of the offensive system. While the stat sheet showed flashes of efficiency, it also revealed areas of concern that will need to be cleaned up if Allen hopes to cement himself as the Lions' trusted QB2.

Allen finished the night with 91 passing yards and a 64% completion rate, going 9-of-14 through the air. However, the two interceptions he tossed cloud what could’ve been an otherwise solid outing. Both turnovers were more mental than mechanical, telegraphed throws where Allen fixated on his primary target. The first came under pressure on a blitz, and while the throw completion percentage under duress (83%) was impressive, that particular play exposed Allen’s tendency to stare down receivers. The second pick came in the red zone toward the back right pylon, an aggressive throw that might have had better results with a quicker read or a pump fake to shift the safety.

When kept clean, Allen looked sharp. Of his 16 total drop backs, he was afforded solid protection on 13 of them, staying upright and largely unpressured. It’s no surprise, then, that his most effective moments came when the offense was in rhythm and ahead of schedule.

Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson appeared to lean into Allen’s strengths with play-action and screen concepts. On play-action, Allen went 3-for-4 for 51 yards, showcasing timing, confidence, and command. He was equally efficient on-screen passes, completing both of his attempts for an additional 14 yards. These plays clearly provided comfort, structure, and rhythm for the veteran backup, suggesting that a schemed, controlled environment suits his playing style best.

Allen’s precision in the short game also deserves mention. He completed every pass he attempted between 0–9 yards and behind the line of scrimmage, demonstrating timing and accuracy in the quick game. However, a glaring hole in his passing map was the complete absence of throws to the left side of the field. Whether that was dictated by play design or defensive looks, it's a trend that will certainly raise eyebrows in the film room. In the NFL, being able to attack the full field is non-negotiable.

Final Grade: D-

Kyle Allen’s performance was a mixed bag. He showed command of structure, particularly of play-action and short throws, but his decision-making in crucial moments left points off the board. The two interceptions, especially in high-leverage red zone territory, are the kind of mistakes that can tilt games come regular season. Still, the efficiency in certain packages and resilience under pressure are encouraging signs.

If Allen wants to lock in the backup role behind Jared Goff, he’ll need to eliminate the mental errors and prove he can scan and deliver across the full width of the field. Preseason or not, every snap matters, and Thursday night gave both promise and pause in evaluating the Lions' quarterback depth.