Sgt. Ken Bettinger at Hall of Fame GameSgt. Ken Bettinger (Photo via X)
Fans were split over the rendition of the American national anthem ahead of Thursday night’s Hall of Fame Game.

The first NFL preseason game of the year featured the Los Angeles Chargers and Detroit Lions, with Staff Sergeant Ken Bettinger of the Ohio National Guard doing the honors.

Bettinger serenaded the crowd at the Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton. However, it was clear that singing wasn’t his day job, so fans on social media had differing views.

“My man just sang the national anthem in like 4 different keys in the Hall Of Fame Game. That’s usually talent, but I think… not so much this time,” one user shared via X.

 

“no troll this one of the worst National Anthem’s I’ve ever heard,” another claimed.

Others lauded Bettinger’s efforts, suggesting that celebrities getting to perform the Star Spangled Banner ahead of games should happen somewhat less. 

“That’s a good national anthem. Normalize having people that live it sing it instead of so called famous people. Let someone who loves their country and truly put there life on line to protect it sing it,” someone wrote.

“Bruh sang that National Anthem with his soul,” another claimed.

NFL Honored Monday’s Shooting Victims Before Hall Of Fame Game

Photo of Roger Goodell for article on NFL teamsRoger Goodell (Photo via Imagn Images)
The NFL held a moment of silence for the victims of Monday’s shooting incident in the building housing its headquarters in New York City before Bettinger took center stage ahead of the Hall of Fame Game. Four people were killed while another was critically injured.

The gunman is believed to have targeted the league’s office but took the wrong bank of elevators.

The Chargers won the game pretty convincingly, beating Detroit 34-7 on the night.