The Los Angeles Chargers will take on the Minnesota Vikings in Week 8 of the 2025 NFL season at SoFi Stadium on Thursday night. Both teams lost their last games and really need a win to get back in the groove. The Chargers are 4-3, while the Vikings are 3-3, both fighting to stay strong in their divisions.

Vikings Struggling with Quarterback Issues

Minnesota has had a tough time at quarterback this season. Their starter, J.J. McCarthy has missed several games with an ankle injury. Backup Carson Wentz stepped in and has gone 2-2 as a starter. Wentz’s play has been up and down, and the Vikings risk falling behind in the tough NFC North if they can’t improve. 

Their offense hasn’t been great either, ranking low in key stats (26th in EPA per play) before Week 7. In Week 7, their defense gave up over 300 passing yards and a bunch of touchdowns in a loss to Philadelphia, showing more problems on that side of the ball.

Chargers’ Rocky Season So Far

The Chargers started the season well, winning their first three games, but now stand at 4-3 after a rough loss to the Colts last week. Their defense has been a concern, letting up big plays and lots of points, they gave up 38 points to the Colts in just three quarters! Injuries have hit their offense hard too. 

Important players on their offensive line have been hit. Left tackle Joe Alt is dealing with a high-ankle sprain and may miss time, adding to the Chargers’ line concerns since Rashawn Slater is already out for the season. Running back Omarion Hampton is also hurt. Despite all this, the Chargers are still expected to win at home, though their recent results at SoFi Stadium haven’t been great against betting spreads.

Key Quarterback Matchup

The quarterbacks will be the key factor in this game. Chargers’ Justin Herbert has been solid in 2025, throwing for nearly 1,500 yards with 10 touchdowns and 4 interceptions in seven games. He’s especially important given the struggles in the running game and injuries on the line. 

Herbert faces a Vikings defense that loves to blitz, so he’ll need to stay quick and find open receivers fast. On the flip side, Wentz’s inconsistency means the Vikings will have to work hard to protect him and avoid turnovers.

Who Has the Edge?

The Chargers hold some important advantages here. Their offense has looked better than Minnesota’s, and even though their defense isn’t strong, they face a Vikings offense that’s struggled to score consistently. 

McCarthy's return is uncertain, so it’s likely Wentz will start again. Minnesota’s defense must find ways to slow down Herbert’s passing or Los Angeles could pull away.

Key Player to Watch

• Justin Herbert expected to carry Chargers offense amid injuries
• Herbert’s ability to pick apart Vikings’ blitz-heavy defense will be crucial
• Carson Wentz needs a clean game against a tough Chargers defense

What to Expect

Thursday Night Football can be unpredictable, and this Vikings-Chargers matchup is no exception. While many bettors may struggle to call it right, our playmakers at Bankroll U thrive in the chaos — using data-driven insights to deliver picks that actually hit the mark.

Game Viewing Information

• Date: Thursday, Oct 23
• Time: 8:15 p.m. EST
• Venue: SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles

This game is an important test for both teams as they fight for a playoff spot in the second half of the season.