In the end, the Minnesota Vikings didn't have much choice.
J.J. McCarthy is returning to his starting quarterback spot for Week 9 against the Detroit Lions.
McCarthy hasn't played since Week 2 with an ankle injury.
Carson Wentz stood in for McCarthy, but the second-year QB will get his job back for a huge test against Detroit.
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McCarthy starts over Wentz; why?
Wentz performed adequately as McCarthy's substitute, but an injury to Wentz eliminated any genuine choice in the matter.
Wentz was placed on Injured Reserve by the Vikings on Monday due to a left shoulder injury. According to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, he's scheduled for surgery and will be out for the remainder of the season.
While Wentz's performance might not have been strong enough to prevent McCarthy's advancement, the situation was at least poised to be intriguing.
The only thing that matters now is whether McCarthy is truly prepared to come back.
In the season's initial eight quarters, McCarthy demonstrated strong play for just one. For The Vikings to contend for a playoff spot in the latter half of the season, his consistency will be crucial.
Meanwhile, the Vikings' new No. Max Brosmer, an undrafted rookie from The University of Minnesota, is the second quarterback. He performed well in the preseason but is unlikely to be ready for an NFL starting role.
The Vikings' season hinges on McCarthy's performance; otherwise, it's likely to go downhill fast.
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