Overview
- The Vikings fell to 4-6 and 1-4 at home after a 19-17 defeat to the Bears, their seventh one-score game of the season.
- J.J. McCarthy went 16-for-32 for 150 yards with two interceptions, mixing a poised late touchdown drive with persistent accuracy problems and drops by receivers.
- Kevin O’Connell said he believes McCarthy’s accuracy will improve with mechanics work and reps, and he acknowledged he must balance the quarterback’s development with team needs, not ruling out a benching when asked.
- A 56-yard kickoff return by Devin Duvernay set up Cairo Santos’ decisive field goal, with O’Connell citing missed lane discipline by young special-teamers on the play.
- Per the Associated Press, Minnesota’s offense has multiple sub-20-point outings and low marks in plays and first downs, though its rushing average ranks in the league’s top ten.