The Chargersopened their 2026 preseason with a convincing 27-7 victory over theTexansatReliant Stadium.Here is our recap of the preseason opener:It was over when...QuarterbackDJ Uiagaleleiconnected withwide receiver Devonte Rossfor a three-yard touchdown pass with just over 10 minutes remaining in the fourth quarter. The score capitalized on a fumble recovery by undrafted rookie linebackerLander Barton. It extended the Chargers' lead to a comfortable 27-7 cushion.3 stars of the gameQBDJ Uiagalelei: 120 passing yards, 1 touchdown, 146.8 passer rating.RBAmar Johnson: 85 total yards, 2 rushing touchdowns, two-point conversionWRKeAndre Lambert-Smith: 4 receptions, 58 yards.Quick hitsQuarterbackTrey Lancestarted under centerwith the opportunity to make his case to beJustin Herbert'sprimary backup, but put up a mixed performance.Lancethrew for 164 yards but was plagued by some turnover-worthy throws, including a costly interception. He finished with a 65.4 passer rating.Quarterback DJ Uiagaleleipulled ahead in the quarterback battlewith a highly efficient outing, completing crisp passes for 120 yards and a striking touchdown towide receiver Devonte Ross.Running backAmar Johnson found the end zone twice on the ground and broke open a massive 55-yard reception to lead the team in total yards. Wide receiverKeAndre Lambert-Smithwas a reliable spark plugfor the offense, moving the chains effectively with a team-high 4 catches.Tight endJohnny Pascuzzialso had himself a day, proving to be a highly dependable target with 3 catches for 39 yards.Rookie Jake Slaughter started at center, but I was particularly impressed with his performance at left guard. Slaughter kept defenders at bay in pass protection and identified stunts really well, while also showing athleticism at the second level in the run game.Branson Taylor got some run at left guard and both tackle spots, also showing some good stuff in pass pro.Kayode Awosika, who started at right guard, hardly played in this game, which could indicate that the starting left guard is his job to lose.On the defensive side,Chris O'Leary's unit was stiff. After allowing an opening-series touchdown, they went on to produce three turnovers, five punts, and zero points.Defensive linemanJahmeer Carterlogged a sack. TeRah Edwards and Jacobian Guillory II also flashed in the trenches.Cornerback Avery Smith broke up a pass and made a tackle for loss.SafetyKendall Williamsonandlinebacker Emany Johnsoncame on strongas open-field tacklers, with each making a stop behind the line of scrimmage for a tackle for loss.LinebackerLander Barton recovered a fumble.Wide receiver Derius Davis is the frontrunner to be the starting punt returner, but it's worth noting that they had three others field punts: Wide receivers Brenen Thompson, Luke Grimm, and Devonte Ross.What's next?The Chargers will continue practicing before heading back to SoFi Stadium for their second preseason matchup against the49erson Thursday, August 20.This article originally appeared on Chargers Wire: Chargers top Texans in preseason opener: Recap of LA's win