Vikings Routed 37-10; Wentz Struggles, McCarthy Questioned

The Minnesota Vikings were routed 37-10 by the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 8, a loss that all but ends realistic hopes for a meaningful 2024 run and raises questions about the franchise’s quarterback direction. Carson Wentz, wearing a visible shoulder brace, completed 15 of 27 for 144 yards with one touchdown, one interception, a fumble and multiple sacks, intensifying concerns about his availability after reports an insider called his shoulder “very severe.” The offense was stifled — no Viking reached 100 scrimmage yards; Justin Jefferson had 74 yards and Aaron Jones 15 — while Justin Herbert and Chargers rushers produced several big plays. A viral sideline clip of rookie J.J. McCarthy moving nimbly prompted fan and media accusations that his prolonged absence for a high-ankle sprain looks suspicious, though the team says he is not ready to return. Lineup and injury issues on the offensive line (Christian Darrisaw active, Brian O’Neill inactive) compounded protection problems, and the loss dropped Minnesota to 3-4.