Heading into their week 9 match-up with division rival Detroit, the Minnesota Vikings had a big challenge ahead of them. They were on the road, taking on one of the best teams in the NFL, and they were being led by a largely untested young quarterback.
In what turned out to be a close contest, the Vikes bested the Lions, 27-24. And that young QB, JJ McCarthy, answered the challenge. The former 2024 first-round pick threw for 143 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception, while limiting his mistakes and simply managing the game.
Following the victory, the usual game balls were handed out, and head coach Kevin O'Connell talked to his team about winning against adversity.
"I'm so f***ing proud of every guy in this room," O'Connell said in his locker room speech. "You guys just came together even more [today]. This a huge when, with the circumstances we've been in."
"What I saw were guys on the sideline figuring out, 'I'm going to go make the play'. Not for any other reason than the teammate beside them. Tough circumstances. The environment against us... So give it up for each other."
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The Vikings (now 4-4) will host the Ravens (3-5) in week 10. They are currently in last place in the NFC North, but only one win currently separates all four teams from the top spot.