Chargers crush Vikings 37-10 with Herbert masterclass in Week 8

October 23, 2025, NFL Inglewood, United States (Photo: Chargers)

On the night of Thursday, October 23, 2025, the Chargers delivered their best performance of the season, beating the Minnesota Vikings 37-10 at SoFi Stadium. Coming off a short week after a loss to the Colts, Jim Harbaugh’s team responded with character and jumped to a 14-0 lead in the first quarter thanks to the intensity of their offense. The win, which moves them to 5-3 and back atop the division, was celebrated by leaders like Khalil Mack and Tuli Tuipulotu, who noted how happy they were to play again so soon to erase the bitter taste. Harbaugh, meanwhile, emphasized the physicality his players showed in all phases.

The game started with a play that could have changed its course: an apparent pick‑6 on the Chargers’ first drive was reversed upon review. From there, Justin Herbert led an unstoppable offense. He connected with Oronde Gadsden for an eight‑yard touchdown and, on the next drive, rookie Kimani Vidal capped a three‑yard run for his first NFL score. Herbert extended the lead just before halftime with a 27‑yard strike to Ladd McConkey, while Cameron Dicker added field goals of 43, 34 and 45 yards. Minnesota could only muster a 54‑yard field goal and a four‑yard pass from Carson Wentz to Jordan Addison. In the final quarter, Herbert found Tre’ Harris for the receiver’s first professional touchdown, sealing a 37‑10 rout that was never in doubt.

The night belonged to Justin Herbert, who completed 18 of 25 passes for 227 yards and three touchdowns with a passer rating of 122.8. He also ran for 62 yards, complementing a rushing attack that totaled 207 yards and featured Kimani Vidal’s 117 yards and a touchdown. Herbert praised the rookie: “We’re lucky to have him… he’s done a great job taking advantage of the opportunity.” Through the air, rookies Ladd McConkey (88 yards and a touchdown) and Oronde Gadsden (77 yards) stood out, while Tre’ Harris added his first NFL score. The defense also shone: the Chargers sacked Carson Wentz five times, with Justin Eboigbe contributing two and Khalil Mack, Odafe Oweh and Tuli Tuipulotu adding one each, and limited the Vikings to just 191 total yards. Cam Hart led the secondary with three pass break‑ups, and even after Derwin James Jr. left in the first quarter with an ankle injury, the unit maintained its level.

The resounding win restored confidence to a locker room that now looks to the second half of the season with optimism. At 5-3, the Chargers enjoy a mini bye before visiting the Tennessee Titans in Week 9. Harbaugh expressed satisfaction with the team’s spirit and granted an extra day of rest as a reward. Zion Johnson and Ladd McConkey agreed that by not “shooting themselves in the foot” they finally played a complete game. On defense, Mack and Justin Eboigbe noted the leadership of the group and the determination to bounce back, even after losing Derwin James Jr. early. While Minnesota falls to 3-4, Los Angeles regains its identity and looks like a formidable opponent for the second half of the schedule.