Week 8 of the NFL Season sees six teams on a bye. With all those teams out, combined with injuries, that puts pressure on those of us setting fantasy lineups. Every game counts. And that starts with Thursday’s battle between the Minnesota Vikings and the Los Angeles Chargers.

Both the Vikings and Chargers were playoff teams in 2024. Both have lofty aspirations in 2025, but both have suffered a lot of injuries. That makes this Thursday night clash in Los Angeles an interesting challenge.

For the Vikings, J.J. McCarthy will be the emergency quarterback, but Carson Wentz is still starting. Given the landscape, he’s a QB2. In the backfield, the team opened Aaron Jones’ window to return from IR. Even if active, I am hesitant. I like Jordan Mason as an RB2, but I’d hold off on any other Vikings in the backfield. Justin Jefferson is a low-end WR1, while Jordan Addison is a WR2 this week. T.J. Hockenson is a TE2 with upside for me.

For the Chargers, Justin Herbert has been solid. He’s a low-end QB1. I suspect the Chargers will want to throw and need to throw. In the backfield, Hassan Haskins is doubtful, so it’s all about Kimani Vidal. He’s an RB2. In the passing game, I like Quentin Johnston and Ladd McConkey as WR2s, while Keenan Allen is a WR3 with upside. I like Oronde Gadsen as a TE2 with upside. He could be a sneaky play.

Now, on to the Week 8 picks.

NFL Picks, Week 8:

Chargers Over Vikings
Falcons Over Dolphins
Bengals Over Jets
Patriots Over Browns
Eagles Over Giants
Bills Over Panthers
Ravens Over Bears
49ers Over Texans
Buccaneers Over Saints
Broncos Over Cowboys
Colts Over Titans
Steelers Over Packers
Chiefs Over Commanders

Last Week: 14-1
Season: 66-41

Matthew Fox is a graduate of the Radio, Television and Film program at Biola University, and a giant nerd. He spends his free time watching movies, TV, and obsessing about football. He is a member of the FSWA. You can find him @knighthawk7734 on Twitter and as co-host of the Fantasy Football Roundtable Podcast.