Week 8 NFL Matchup: Vikings vs. Chargers
Tonight marks the start of Week 8 in the 2025 NFL season, with the Minnesota Vikings facing off against the Los Angeles Chargers. The Chargers are coming in as 3-point favorites, and the game has an over/under of 44.5 points. As we reach the midpoint of the season, both teams find themselves around a .500 record, and securing a win could significantly boost their playoff aspirations.
Here’s a look at some key DFS plays for this Thursday night showdown.
Quentin Johnston, WR, Minnesota Vikings (FLEX $9,200, CPT $13,800)
The Chargers’ receiving corps has been performing well in the early season, and they managed to show some improvement, despite a 38-24 loss to the Colts last Sunday. Johnston himself had a quieter game, catching only two of six targets for 30 yards and a touchdown, but he has found the end zone five times this season as a third-year wide receiver.
While I don’t think Justin Herbert will be tossing the ball 55 times like he did last week, I do expect Johnston to be a primary target, especially for big plays. He’s been consistently getting to the end zone this year, making him a solid choice to feature prominently in the lineup.
Kimani Vidal, RB, Los Angeles Chargers (FLEX $8,800, CPT $13,200)
Vidal struggled last week, managing just 35 yards against the Colts, a significant drop from his 124 yards the previous game against the Dolphins. This dip can likely be attributed to the Chargers needing to pass heavily after falling behind early, but he still recorded nine carries and four receptions.
I think the Chargers might aim to establish their run game early this time, especially with Joe Alt potentially coming back. It seems like they’ll want to achieve that—his leadership has been a positive influence, adding value to tonight’s game.
Jordan Addison (FLEX $8,400, CPT $12,600)
As for Minnesota, their quarterback dilemma is a bit tricky right now. With JJ McCarthy sidelined, Carson Wentz is at the helm. However, the duo of Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison remains a strong offensive asset. Addison has really stepped up since returning from a three-game suspension, having tallied nine targets for 128 yards against the Eagles.
The Chargers’ secondary will be challenged with covering both wide receivers, and with extra attention likely on Jefferson, Addison could find some opportunities. I’m leaning towards him as a potential captain pick for this matchup.
Will Reichard, K, Minnesota Vikings (FLEX $6,600, CPT $9,900)
Reichard was a key player for the Vikings in their recent game, going a flawless 5-for-5 on field goals, in addition to scoring an extra point. It’s likely the Vikings will lean on him again while playing on the road, and the conditions at SoFi Stadium should be favorable for him to deliver another strong performance.
Jalen Naylor, WR, Minnesota Vikings (FLEX $4,600, CPT $6,900)
Naylor has been a consistent contributor to the Vikings this season, catching two of four targets for 37 yards last week. Though he often doesn’t get the same spotlight as Jefferson, Addison, or TJ Hockenson, there’s always a chance he could shine if Wentz decides to focus on him. He might be worth considering for your lineup.
Tre Harris, WR, Los Angeles Chargers (FLEX $3,200, CPT $4,800)
The Chargers have an array of emerging pass-catching options, and Harris is starting to make a name for himself. While his stats might not yet be eye-catching, he has scored in each of the last two games and has been on the field for a significant portion of the Chargers’ offensive snaps. Considering his low price, he might be a smart addition to a DFS roster.
