The Alec Lewis Show The Athletic’s Daniel Popper previews Vikings-Chargers, talks Minnesota’s weird statistical profile and more : Ep. 122 | Presented by First Resource Bank
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Oct 22, 2025 
Daniel Popper, a Chargers reporter for The Athletic and author of 'Hops With Pop,' dives into the upcoming Vikings-Chargers matchup. He unpacks the Vikings’ unusual statistical profile, and discusses the injury woes of the Chargers’ offensive line. Their conversation touches on how to contain Justin Herbert's escapability and the impact of rookie O'Rondae Gadsden. Popper also analyzes whether the Vikings can establish a run game against the Chargers’ defenses, and assesses the significance of key player matchups.
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Vikings' Stats Don’t Tell The Whole Story
- Daniel Popper finds the Vikings’ statistical profile peculiar and hard to parse from numbers alone.
- He trusts film study to reveal that Minnesota’s defense is more concerning than its offense right now.
Watch Tackle Injuries Before Betting The Line
- Expect the Chargers' offensive line to be a worst-case scenario due to multiple injuries and backups starting.
- Monitor Joe Alt and Trey Pipkins' practice status because their returns could materially improve protection.
Pocket Strength Fuels Herbert's Escapes
- Jonathan Allen is a key matchup because the Chargers’ interior OL is susceptible to quality interior rushers.
- Justin Herbert’s pocket escapability is driven as much by strength as by quickness.