With both DraftKings and FanDuel now using similar formats — a multiplier slot (Captain/MVP) that costs 1.5× salary and earns 1.5× points — the nuances between sites come down to scoring systems and contest dynamics. DraftKings' full PPR scoring and larger prize pools reward a slightly different decision-making process than FanDuel's half-PPR and softer fields, but the core principles of Showdown roster construction apply across both.
Game Scripting and Roster Construction
Thursday night brings two teams licking their wounds on a short week. Minnesota fell to the defending champs in their own building, dropping to 3–3, while Los Angeles was handled at home by an upstart Colts squad, dropping to 4–3. Oddsmakers lean toward the Chargers in a low-scoring tilt, roughly 23–20.
Projecting a script isn't simple when both clubs are hovering around .500, but my lean is that they're headed in different directions. The Chargers have banked quality reps against quality opponents, including wins over the Chiefs and Broncos. The Vikings' victories, by contrast, have come against pedestrian competition with a combined 8–10 record. I expect Justin Herbert to expose Minnesota on Thursday and for Los Angeles to steady the ship, while the Vikings use the extended mini-bye to get J.J. McCarthy ready for Week 9.
A key hinge is Minnesota's identity under Brian Flores: they blitz at one of the league's highest rates, creating chances for opposing quarterbacks to exploit isolated matchups downfield. Until last week, the Vikings hadn't faced a top-tier passer. Then Jalen Hurts arrived and went 5-for-5 on throws of 20-plus air yards for 215 yards, carving up the back end when pressure didn't land. Herbert has the tools to replicate that template—quick middle-field access to Keenan Allen, then verticals outside when Minnesota heats it up. See below for deeper analysis and how it all translates to your builds.
Injury Roundup
Minnesota will stick with Carson Wentz at quarterback, with J.J. McCarthy (ankle) available only in an emergency. They'll be without fullback C.J. Ham (hand) and linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel. The key variables are at tackle: Christian Darrisaw and Brian O'Neill are both questionable. If either sits, temper expectations for the Vikings' run game and short-set protections; if both play, you can be more confident in Minnesota's ground volume and play-action efficiency.
The Chargers face similar concerns at tackle. Joe Alt and Trey Pipkins are questionable, and primary swing tackle Austin Deculus is also questionable. While unlikely, a scenario where multiple tackles sit would warrant a broad downgrade to the Chargers' offense and a modest upgrade to the Vikings' defense. Also watch RB2 behind Kimani Vidal. With Najee Harris and Omarion Hampton already out and Hassan Haskins leaving last Sunday with a hamstring injury, Los Angeles will need a practice-squad elevation. The identity of the call-up will profile as a cheap value piece for Showdown builds.
Captain Considerations
Vikings Showdown Players
Quarterback
Carson Wentz (FLEX)
After three turnovers in last week's loss to Philadelphia, it was a mild surprise to see Minnesota stick with Carson Wentz for Thursday night. Wentz has topped 300 yards in half of his starts this season, but both of those came in losses and were offset by six total giveaways. The matchup isn't doing him favors. The Chargers rank eighth against opposing quarterbacks despite a schedule that already includes Patrick Mahomes II, Bo Nix, Jaxson Dart, and Jayden Daniels—each a capable fantasy producer. I rarely fade quarterbacks in Showdown, but this is one of the spots where it's at least on the table. DFS Takeaway: Wentz's volume keeps him viable, yet turnover risk and a tougher-on-QBs opponent make him a leverage fade candidate, especially those that lean into Vikings field goals and RB usage.