Chargers-Vikings Best Start ’Em, Sit ’Em: Fantasy Football Week 8

Justin Herbert (QB, Chargers) — Herbert is coming off one of his biggest fantasy outings of the season, throwing for 420 yards and three touchdowns in a loss to Indianapolis. Despite protection issues — the Chargers have allowed 20 sacks through seven games — Herbert remains a top fantasy quarterback. The Vikings rank 28th in total defense and 30th in scoring defense, giving Herbert another high-volume opportunity at home. Expect plenty of work for Keenan Allen, Ladd McConkey, and rookie tight end Oronde Gadsden II, who has become a legitimate fantasy sleeper.

Justin Jefferson (WR) — Regardless of who’s under center for Minnesota, Jefferson remains a matchup-proof WR1. Even with Carson Wentz starting for the injured J.J. McCarthy, Jefferson has averaged 10+ targets per game, including 128 yards last week against Philadelphia. The Chargers have been stingy against wideouts, but Jefferson’s route precision and volume make him an automatic start.

Jordan Addison (WR) — Addison has been a revelation since returning from suspension, averaging 94.3 yards and 17.4 PPR points over three games. He caught nine passes for 128 yards last week and has quickly become Wentz’s trusted second option. With defenses focusing on Jefferson, Addison should see favorable matchups once again.

Sit ’Em: Carson Wentz and Quentin Johnston

Carson Wentz (QB, Vikings) — While serviceable as a streamer, Wentz faces a dangerous Chargers pass rush. He’s thrown four interceptions in four starts, and his offensive line ranks in the bottom ten in protection. With limited prep time on a short week, Wentz is a risky QB2 play.

Quentin Johnston (WR, Chargers) — Johnston’s usage has dipped sharply, seeing only 10 targets over the last two games. Even with Herbert airing it out last week, he managed just 30 yards on two catches, salvaged only by a touchdown. His declining role behind McConkey and Gadsden makes him a fade for Week 8.

Running Back Decisions: Start Jordan Mason, Sit Kimani Vidal

Jordan Mason (RB, Vikings) — Mason’s workload is trending up, logging 77% of snaps last week and scoring in back-to-back games. The Chargers have surrendered seven touchdowns to RB1s over their last three contests, making Mason a strong flex or RB2 start. It is unclear at this time if the Vikings will play Aaron Jones, who was on the injury reserve until Tuesday.

Kimani Vidal (RB, Chargers) — Vidal’s production cratered last week with just 35 total yards, and he now faces a Minnesota defense allowing the 18th fewest rushing yards per game. With Los Angeles likely to lean pass-heavy again, Vidal’s fantasy ceiling is capped.

Final Takeaway

This matchup offers plenty of fantasy intrigue — high-volume passing, emerging rookies, and backfields in flux. Start Herbert, Jefferson, Addison, and Mason with confidence. Sit Wentz, Johnston, and Vidal until their roles or matchups improve.

Thursday night’s battle at SoFi may not fix either team’s season, but it could make or break yours in fantasy football.