Overview
- McCarthy was ruled out at halftime after a Brian Burns strip-sack that Tyler Nubin returned 27 yards for a touchdown just before the break.
- Head coach Kevin O’Connell reported negative X-rays and said additional evaluations are planned, leaving McCarthy’s short‑week status uncertain.
- Running back Jordan Mason exited with an ankle injury and center Ryan Kelly was ruled out with a concussion, his third this season and sixth of his career.
- Backup Max Brosmer went 7-of-9 for 52 yards and led the fourth-quarter drive for Will Reichard’s go-ahead field goal as Minnesota improved to 7–8.
- Independent medical voices floated a possible metacarpal fracture scenario for McCarthy, but that remains unconfirmed pending team testing.