Overview

• J.J. McCarthy completed 4-of-7 passes for 30 yards and converted a fourth-and-4 scramble over 12 snaps in Minnesota’s 20-10 preseason win, underscoring confidence in his knee recovery
• Coaches indicated McCarthy’s brief opener likely concludes his preseason work as the team shifts to joint practices with the Patriots ahead of next Saturday’s game
• Rondale Moore suffered a significant leg injury fielding a punt, underwent an MRI and now faces an uncertain return after coach Kevin O’Connell expressed limited optimism
• Sam Howell (11-of-13 for 105 yards, rushing touchdown) and undrafted rookie Max Brosmer (5-of-8, touchdown) impressed in relief, intensifying the battle for the No. 2 quarterback role
• Defensive depth stood out with Gabe Murphy logging 1.5 sacks and Kahlef Hailassie recording two interceptions while the starters sat out the opener