J.J. McCarthy is poised to reclaim his starting position this week for the Minnesota Vikings. As the team prepares for their matchup against the Washington Commanders, the coaching staff is focused on simplifying the game plan to aid the struggling quarterback.
The Vikings, currently at 4-8, will test their “less is more” strategy this Sunday afternoon in Minneapolis against the Commanders, who sit at 3-9. This game presents McCarthy with a chance to enhance his performance in what has been a challenging first season as a starter. After missing last week”s game against the Seattle Seahawks due to concussion protocol, he has returned to practice and is ready to lead the team.
In McCarthy”s absence, undrafted rookie Max Brosmer made his debut as a starter, but the result was disappointing as the Vikings were shut out 26-0. Brosmer threw four interceptions, underscoring the need for McCarthy”s return. This season, McCarthy has recorded six touchdowns against ten interceptions over six starts, illustrating the struggles he has faced.
Kevin O”Connell, the Vikings” head coach, emphasized that the current focus needs to be on decision-making rather than on technical adjustments like footwork or throwing mechanics. “It”s purely about decision-making at this point,” O”Connell stated. “I want him to have a clear head and a clear mind to just go play, but play with an understanding of, “The decisions that I make … have to be of the utmost importance.” Because we learned our turnover number is where it is. It”s not a winning formula.” He added that he does not want McCarthy to overthink or worry about fundamental changes, encouraging him instead to focus on making the throws and playing with rhythm.
On the other side, Dan Quinn, the coach of the Commanders, has not disclosed whether quarterback Jayden Daniels will return to action. Daniels has been sidelined for three games due to a dislocated left elbow and has yet to be cleared for contact. Although he participated in practice by throwing passes on a side field, Quinn indicated that a decision on Daniels” status would not come until at least Friday. In the meantime, veteran quarterback Marcus Mariota has stepped in, but he has struggled with a 1-5 record this season, throwing nine touchdowns and six interceptions.
The Commanders are looking to break a seven-game losing streak following a narrow 27-26 overtime defeat against the Denver Broncos last Sunday night. They seek their first win since October 5 when they take on the Vikings. Quinn noted some reasons for optimism, particularly regarding the performance of the Commanders” offensive line. He specifically praised right guard Sam Cosmi for his development alongside right tackle Josh Conerly Jr., stating, “It felt like him and Josh have felt more cohesive, and that continuity is helping because now they”ve been in that rhythm a good bit together.”
Historically, the Vikings have had the upper hand in recent encounters, winning the last three matchups. The Commanders are eager to secure their first victory over Minnesota since 2016, and they have not won in Minnesota since 2007, prior to the Vikings moving into U.S. Bank Stadium.
