Minnesota Vikings vs Los Angeles Chargers

The Minnesota Vikings are set to face the Los Angeles Chargers on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. Kickoff is scheduled for 8:15 p.m. ET, marking the primetime clash for Thursday Night Football. The atmosphere around the stadium is expected to be electric, as both teams seek to build momentum heading into the second half of the season. For the Vikings, this is an important away test after a mixed run of results, while the Chargers return home eager to solidify their playoff aspirations.

Injury concerns have been a dominant storyline leading up to the game. Minnesota will be without their rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who continues to recover from an ankle injury, meaning veteran Carson Wentz will start once again. Running back Aaron Jones Sr. has been reactivated from injured reserve, although his workload remains uncertain after limited practice time. The Chargers, meanwhile, have issues along their offensive line with Joe Alt and Trey Pipkins III both questionable, and running back Hassan Haskins ruled out. Both coaching staffs have been adjusting their game plans accordingly, knowing depth will be tested.

From a tactical perspective, Kevin O’Connell is expected to adopt a measured, run-heavy approach with the Vikings offense, using short passes and play-action to minimize risk with Wentz under center. Minnesota’s defense, coordinated by Brian Flores, will rely on creative blitz packages to pressure Justin Herbert and disrupt the Chargers’ rhythm. On the other side, Jim Harbaugh has encouraged an aggressive mindset, pushing for explosive plays through the air and fast tempo on offense while trusting his defensive front to contain Minnesota’s ground attack. The battle in the trenches is expected to define the tone of the night.

In the days leading up to kickoff, the press has been divided about which side holds the advantage. Some outlets highlight Minnesota’s resilience and Wentz’s growing comfort in the system, while others question whether the Vikings can handle the Chargers’ speed and offensive depth on the road. The Los Angeles Chargers have been praised for their home form and adaptability under Harbaugh, but skepticism remains over their defensive consistency, particularly in the secondary.

In pregame studio analysis, former players and analysts emphasized the importance of execution and composure. Many pointed out that if the Vikings can protect Wentz and establish the run early, they can control the tempo and frustrate Los Angeles. However, analysts also agreed that the Chargers’ vertical passing game and home-field advantage could tilt the balance their way. With both teams dealing with injuries and inconsistency, Thursday night’s matchup promises to be a test of coaching adjustments, quarterback efficiency, and mental toughness under the lights.

NFL 2025-26 Week 7 – Thursday, October 23, 2025, Minnesota Vikings vs Los Angeles Chargers Full Game Replay

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