Minnesota opened the 2025 slate with a crisp preseason win over Houston, led by J.J. McCarthy’s return in a single early drive that set the rhythm for the night. Will Reichard silenced camp concerns with a perfect two-for-two on field goals (long 48) and clean extra points, giving the Vikings a confident kicking baseline. The backup QB trio generated momentum, with Max Brosmer and Sam Howell orchestrating multiple TD drives and extending plays on the move, while Brett Rypien struggled to connect. Bryson Nesbit’s helmet moment provided a lighter subplot as Minnesota’s defense, under Brian Flores, pressured the Texans relentlessly—two sacks, 11 QB hits, a forced fumble, and three picks, while Texans were held under 200 yards. Special teams shined again, a note Vikings needed after last season, hinting at depth-chart intrigue as McCarthy, Howell, and Brosmer push for meaningful reps. This blend of efficient kicking, QB depth, and a swarming defense sets up intriguing fantasy angles heading into the next preseason and the regular season.

J.J. McCarthy returns to Vikings action after a 364-day layoff, delivering a confident one-drive sample in Minnesota’s preseason opener against Houston. He moved well in and out of the pocket, escaping pressure and threading a short connection to Addison on his first play, then finding Addison again on an 18-yard throw under duress. An eight-yard scramble on fourth-and-4 to extend the drive highlighted his healthy knee and mobility in an encouraging return.

Jordan Addison quickly showed rapport with McCarthy, catching a quick strike on third down and another deeper ball for 18 yards, highlighting instant chemistry and route discipline. Will Reichard finished the opening possession with a 48-yard field goal, providing the Vikings with early points. Sam Howell took over later in the series for a final one-drive sample. Minnesota signaled intent to lean on McCarthy as the club’s future, with Addison poised to be a fantasy catalyst as the offense grows in this evaluation period.

The outing produced a couple of missteps (a batted RPO and an overthrow) but nothing that undermined the overall trend: McCarthy looked capable, Addison looked like a true weapon, Reichard provided a dependable leg, and the Vikings appear committed to building around their young quarterback. For fantasy managers, that combination supports buying Addison as a high-floor/ceiling option and keeping McCarthy on a longer leash as a potential breakout signal in dynasty/rookie formats.

Minnesota’s offense moved efficiently in the first half of a Chicago-like exhibition, with J.J. McCarthy efficiently feeding Jordan Addison on an opening flurry that produced a 3-0 lead on Reichard’s boot. Houston answered, led by Davis Mills, finishing a 14-yard connection to Braxton Berrios for a 7-3 edge. A late Vikings drive produced Sam Howell’s early involvement and a 1-yard Howell score after a series of big plays to Lucky Jackson and Jeshaun Jones. The half closed with Minnesota up 13-7 after Reichard added a 38-yard field goal. A scary moment as Rondale Moore twisted a leg on a punt return clouded the scene, but Minnesota heads to the locker room with momentum and hidden depth on both sides of the ball. Fantasy angles lean toward McCarthy Addison pairing and Mills’ Texans tempo, with Murphy and Reichard quietly shaping kicker and pass-rush outlook.

The Minnesota Vikings are set to face the Los Angeles Rams on Monday night, with a chance to advance to the Divisional Round of the playoffs against the Philadelphia Eagles. Key factors that could influence the outcome include turnovers, quarterback performance under pressure, and penalty management.

Matthew Stafford, the Rams' quarterback, has been remarkably efficient this season, with only eight interceptions and a low turnover rate. However, the Vikings' defense excels at creating turnovers, forcing a league-high 33 this season. Both teams have contrasting styles regarding penalties, with the Rams committing the fewest in the NFL, while the Vikings struggled in this area.

Stafford’s ability to evade sacks has been notable, ranking sixth among QBs in sack percentage. Nevertheless, he has had difficulty performing under duress. The Vikings' defense will need to apply pressure effectively to disrupt his rhythm. Additionally, the offensive line's performance will be critical, especially with Cam Robinson facing Jared Verse, a promising edge rusher.

As the NFL playoff season unfolds, fantasy football has taken center stage, especially with tonight's match between the Minnesota Vikings and Los Angeles Rams. The Vikings D/ST, previously a top-performing unit, must be approached cautiously after a disappointing performance against the Rams earlier this season. Despite their overall strong season, players should think twice before starting them in this matchup.

The Rams D/ST, while initially expected to struggle without star Aaron Donald, has showed resilience thanks to rookie sensation Jared Verse. However, considering their average fantasy points and past performances, they also may not be the best option for tonight’s game.

On the special teams front, kicker Will Reichard has had a noteworthy rookie season, highlighted by his impressive kicking from 50 yards. While kickers often face challenges early in their careers, Reichard's consistent scoring makes him a viable starter for fantasy players in tonight’s playoff action.