Overview
- McCarthy completed 16 of 32 passes for 150 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions, drawing boos during a third-quarter misfire to Justin Jefferson.
- He rebounded late with a composed 10-play, 85-yard drive to a go-ahead score with 50 seconds left before Chicago answered with the winning field goal.
- ESPN reported an off-target rate that climbed to roughly 32% during the game, including struggles on throws of 10-plus air yards, which limited the downfield attack.
- Cris Carter criticized McCarthy’s performance on social media, while Jefferson publicly defended his quarterback and said he will spend extra time building their connection.
- Coach Kevin O’Connell declined to discuss a potential benching, noting missed “pitch and catch” opportunities, as the 4-6 Vikings weigh development against playoff hopes with undrafted rookie Max Brosmer as the inexperienced backup and outside analysts urging consideration of veteran options.