2025-26 NFL Week 8 MIN vs. LAC Preview: Which team will bounce back on Thursday night? October 23, 2025 by Marc Jerbs

The Week 8 Thursday Night Football showdown between the Minnesota Vikings and the Los Angeles Chargers is set for October 23, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, with kickoff at 8:15 PM EDT. Both teams are looking to rebound after disappointing losses in Week 7. The Chargers currently hold a 4-3 record, while the Vikings sit at 3-3 and hope to climb back into NFC North contention.

Venue and Weather Conditions

The primetime clash will take place under ideal conditions at SoFi Stadium, one of the NFL's most advanced venues. The forecast for Inglewood predicts mostly sunny skies, a high of 72°F, and a low of 58°F, with light winds around 7 mph and 0% chance of rain. Fans can expect a comfortable evening for football with a moderate UV index of 3.

Historical Matchup Overview

Historically, the Minnesota Vikings hold a slight 8-7 edge in the all-time series against the Los Angeles Chargers. The two teams have never met in the postseason, but the Vikings have dominated recent matchups, winning six of the last ten since 1985. The Chargers, however, claimed the most recent victory — a 28-24 win in Minneapolis on September 24, 2023. Notably, the Vikings have won both games played in Los Angeles since the Chargers' move from San Diego in 2017.

Minnesota vs. Los Angeles Chargers Sports Bet Odds

The Chargers are the favorites to win the game. Here are our latest odds:

• The Chargers are favored by 3.5 points, with a money line of -183.
• The Vikings are the underdogs by 3.5 points, with a money line of +160.
• The Total is set at 45 points, with the over at -110 and the under at -110.

Team and Player Updates

Minnesota Vikings (3-3, 4th in NFC North)

The Vikings average 24.2 points per game (15th) and allow 20.8 points (T-10th). Their offense ranks 20th overall, while their defense sits 9th, thriving against the pass (7th).

Key Player Notes

• Carson Wentz (QB): Making his fifth straight start, Wentz has shown better control in wins (72.2% completion rate, 3 TDs, 0 INTs).
• J.J. McCarthy (QB): Remains sidelined with an ankle injury.
• Aaron Jones Sr. (RB): Questionable with a hamstring issue but may return after limited practice.
• Christian Darrisaw (T) and Brian O'Neill (T): Both questionable with knee injuries.
• C.J. Ham (FB) and Andrew Van Ginkel (OLB): Ruled out.
• Justin Jefferson (WR): Needs 40 yards to reach 8,000 career receiving yards, becoming the third player in NFL history to achieve that milestone in his first six seasons. Jefferson averages 123 yards in Thursday night games and has consistently performed well against the Chargers.

Los Angeles Chargers (4-3, 2nd in AFC West)

The Chargers boast the league's 4th-ranked offense, ranking 3rd in passing yards and 16th in rushing. They average 21.6 points per game (20th) and allow 23.3 (18th).

Key Player Notes

• Joe Alt (LT): Questionable but expected to play, which would strengthen pass protection.
• Trey Pipkins III (RT): Questionable with a knee issue.
• Hassan Haskins (RB): Out with a hamstring injury.
• Keenan Allen (WR): Needs eight receptions to surpass Antonio Gates as the Chargers' all-time receptions leader. Allen has recorded 8+ catches in five of six games versus Minnesota and continues to be Herbert's top target with 44 receptions and 435 yards this season.

Offensive and Defensive Matchups

Vikings Offense vs. Chargers Defense

The Vikings' offense thrives on explosive plays, led by Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison. A returning Aaron Jones Sr. could add balance to their ground attack. The Chargers' defense, though solid against the pass, has shown inconsistency in stopping elite receivers — a potential advantage for Minnesota's aerial game.

Chargers Offense vs. Vikings Defense

The Chargers' offensive line has been hit hard by injuries, forcing Justin Herbert to adapt quickly under pressure. Despite being sacked 20 times, Herbert leads the league with 1,913 passing yards and 13 touchdowns. He faces a fierce Brian Flores defense, which leads the NFL in blitz rate (43.6%). Expect Herbert to face heavy pressure, testing his ability to find quick outlets like Allen and Quentin Johnston.

Final Thought

This Week 8 primetime battle could prove pivotal for both squads. The Vikings must find offensive consistency and capitalize on red-zone chances, while the Chargers will need improved protection and defensive discipline to secure a win at home. With both teams desperate to rebound, fans can expect a tightly contested matchup where execution — not talent — decides the outcome.

2025-26 Minnesota Vikings vs. Los Angeles Chargers Team Stats

MINNESOTA VIKINGS	VS	LOS ANGELES CHARGERS
4th NFC North (3-3) Away (2-1) STRK L1	Standings	2nd AFC West (4-3) Home (3-1) STRK L1
214.8	Passing Yards Per Game	261.6
103.8	Rushing Yards Per Game	111.1
24.2	Points Per Game	21.6
184.0	Passing Yards Allowed Per Game	192.3
117.7	Rushing Yards Allowed Per Game	123.6