Kyle Allen: Hall of Fame Game 2025 | Interceptions vs Chargers

The 2025 NFL Hall of Fame Game kicked off the new football season in dramatic fashion as the Houston Texans clashed with the Los Angeles Chargers in Canton, Ohio. While the spotlight was meant to shine on the inductees of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, quarterback Kyle Allen unexpectedly stole headlines—for better or worse.

Allen’s performance was polarizing. Fans and analysts zeroed in on his multiple interceptions against a young and aggressive Chargers defense. In this in-depth analysis, we’ll break down his performance, what it means for his NFL future, and how the Hall of Fame Game might shape the Texans’ quarterback room heading into the 2025 season.

Who Is Kyle Allen?

Before diving into the game, let’s revisit who Kyle Allen is and what brought him to this critical moment.

Kyle Allen, an undrafted quarterback out of the University of Houston in 2018, has built a career as a reliable backup and occasional starter. He has spent time with the Carolina Panthers, Washington Football Team, Buffalo Bills, and now the Houston Texans.

Career Stats Before 2025

• Games Played: 30

• Touchdowns: 26

• Interceptions: 21

• Completion Rate: 62.4%

• Passing Yards: 4,900+

Despite not being a franchise quarterback, Allen is known for his strong arm, quick release, and football IQ—traits that make him a valuable backup in a league that thrives on quarterback depth.

Hall of Fame Game 2025 Overview

The Hall of Fame Game is often more symbolic than competitive, but it still serves as a critical stage for players fighting for roster spots or attempting to redefine their career narratives.

Final Score

Chargers 24, Texans 17

Attendance

Over 20,000 fans gathered at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium to witness the NFL’s return after the offseason lull.

Kyle Allen’s Performance vs Chargers

Allen started the game for the Texans and played the entire first half. His stat line was mixed:

• Completions: 12/20

• Passing Yards: 145

• Touchdowns: 1

• Interceptions: 2

• Sacks: 1

• QB Rating: 58.7

The numbers don’t tell the whole story, so let’s examine his game quarter by quarter.

First Quarter: A Promising Start

Allen began the game with poise, leading a 60-yard drive that ended with a 15-yard touchdown pass to tight end Brevin Jordan. He showed good timing, command of the offense, and control of the pocket.

The Texans’ offensive line held up well early on, allowing Allen to make clean throws against a base Chargers defense.

Second Quarter: Trouble Surfaces

Things unraveled quickly in the second quarter. On a 2nd-and-10 from the Texans’ 35-yard line, Allen misread coverage and threw directly into the arms of rookie cornerback Jalen Thompson, who returned it 28 yards to set up a Chargers field goal.

Later in the half, with under two minutes remaining, Allen tried to force a deep throw under pressure. The ball was underthrown and intercepted again—this time by safety JT Woods.

Both interceptions raised concerns about Allen’s decision-making under pressure and his risk management.

Breaking Down the Interceptions

Interception #1

• Coverage: Zone

• Intended Receiver: Nico Collins

• Result: Intercepted by CB Jalen Thompson

Allen failed to recognize that the safety dropped into a robber role, baiting him into the throw.

Interception #2

• Coverage: Single-high safety

• Intended Receiver: John Metchie III

• Result: Intercepted by S JT Woods

This throw was under duress and didn’t have enough velocity to reach the sideline. It was a classic example of trying to do too much on a broken play.

Social Media Reactions

The NFL community was quick to weigh in.

• @NFLonFOX: “Kyle Allen’s INTs are a reminder that every snap counts—even in the preseason.”

• @TexansWire: “Brevin Jordan looks sharp, but Kyle Allen’s turnovers are concerning. Could this open the door for rookie QB J.T. Daniels?”

Hashtags like #KyleAllen, #TexansCamp, and #HOFGame2025 trended briefly on X (formerly Twitter) following the game.

What Does This Mean for Allen’s Future?

While the Hall of Fame Game is preseason and doesn’t impact standings, it can heavily influence depth chart decisions—especially for veteran backups.

QB Competition in Houston

With rookie quarterback J.T. Daniels pushing for the No. 2 spot behind starter C.J. Stroud, Allen’s job security is now uncertain.

Coach DeMeco Ryans after the game:

“Kyle had some strong moments and some he’d like back. We’re going to evaluate everything as camp continues.”

This lukewarm statement suggests the Texans are keeping options open.

Kyle Allen’s Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths

• Strong arm

• Experience in multiple NFL systems

• Calm under normal conditions

• Can serve as a mentor to younger QBs

Weaknesses

• Prone to forced throws under pressure

• Inconsistent accuracy on deep passes

• Limited upside as a starter

Player Comparison: Kyle Allen vs Backup QBs

While Allen holds more experience than some, his turnover issues could tip the scales in favor of younger talent.

Expert Takes

NFL Analyst Mina Kimes:

“Kyle Allen’s not the worst QB to have as a safety net, but you can’t have a backup who’s turnover-prone. That kills games fast.”

ESPN’s Adam Schefter:

“The Texans will give Kyle Allen a chance to rebound, but expect more reps for J.T. Daniels in Week 2 of the preseason.”

Can Kyle Allen Bounce Back?

Historically, Allen has shown resilience. After struggling in Carolina, he bounced back in Washington with a few solid starts. He knows how to navigate adversity, but time may be running out.

Keys to Recovery

1. Limit Turnovers – Even if he doesn’t score, he must avoid putting the defense in bad situations.

2. Short Throws & Play Action – Stick to what works; Allen is efficient in quick-game concepts.

3. Show Leadership – A calm presence in meetings and on the sidelines can make a difference.

What’s Next for the Texans?

The Texans continue their preseason campaign with a game against the Dallas Cowboys next week. Expect split reps between Allen, J.T. Daniels, and third-stringer E.J. Perry.

If Allen fails to clean up the turnovers, he may be relegated to QB3—or worse, waived before the season opener.

Final Thoughts

Kyle Allen’s performance in the 2025 Hall of Fame Game wasn’t a complete disaster, but his interceptions cast a long shadow. As the preseason unfolds, Allen must prove that his experience outweighs the risks that come with his playstyle.

For the Texans, every decision counts as they build depth behind C.J. Stroud. The Hall of Fame Game may have been just the beginning of a quarterback controversy in Houston.