Chargers analyst provides key insights on how the Vikings can get a much-needed win on Thursday night

To get a sense of what the Vikings are going to see on Thursday night, I spoke with A to Z Los Angeles' Brentley Weissman.

Minnesota Vikings vs. Los Angeles Chargers preview

How is Justin Herbert handling the bevy of offensive line injuries?

Herbert is naturally a very polarizing player. He was off to a great start to the season and was in the MVP conversation. His offensive line has deteriorated over the course of the season, and with that, Herbert’s play has naturally declined. While he is still showing flashes of early-season brilliance, the beating he has taken is starting to catch up to him. He has been hit more than any quarterback besides Cam Ward, and because of that, he is speeding up his operation and forcing throws he may not have otherwise made. He is a bit more prone to mistakes playing with a weak offensive line, but he still shows enough athleticism and playmaking ability to make things happen. 

The running game has been a calling card for Jim Harbaugh coached teams. How is that looking with Najee Harris and Omarion Hampton?

Kimani Vidal played admirably in the first game without Hampton, who is out with an injury, but struggled against a good Indianapolis Colts defense. Vidal was bottled up and was unable to create yards if the play wasn’t perfectly blocked up. Vidal and Hassan Haskins both are quality back-ups, but they aren’t dynamic by any means. With the offensive line in the shape that it is, it's difficult for these backs to churn out yards on the ground consistently. 

The defense gave up 38 points to the Indianapolis Colts. Is it a liability?

First, I must give credit to the Colts offense, which is arguably the best in the NFL as we stand here today. With that said, the Chargers' defense is a mess right now. The team lacks a pass rush, and their linebackers and secondary is constantly in the wrong spots. Even more concerning, the unit’s top playmakers, Derwin James and Daiyan Henley, are missing tackles and blowing assignments. If those two stars aren’t playing up to their standard, then it's hard to see this unit turning around anytime soon. 

Final Score Prediction

The Vikings' receiving core will certainly cause the Chargers' secondary issues. The team’s corners were routinely out of position and failed to stay in phase against the Colts' receivers. In comparison to the Vikings receivers, the Colts aren’t anything to be stressed about. Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison will almost certainly find open space against the Chargers. With that being said, the Chargers have their back against the wall and they know this is a must-win at home. The team is getting healthier, and the talent is still there for them to be a contender this season. I expect a high-scoring game, but ultimately, I trust Justin Herbert to make more plays than Carson Wentz.

Final Score: Chargers 28, Vikings 21

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