Wolverine Digest

WATCH: JJ McCarthy shines in Vikings debut

Chris Breiler

Aug 10, 2024; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) warms up before the game against the Las Vegas Raiders at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 10, 2024; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) warms up before the game against the Las Vegas Raiders at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports / Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports
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Fans have been eagerly awaiting to see rookie QB JJ McCarthy make his first official appearance with the Minnesota Vikings, and it came early in the first quarter of Saturday's preseason game against the Las Vegas Raiders. McCarthy completed his first pass out of the gate, but proceeded to throw an interception on his third attempt. Through two and a half quarters, McCarthy went 11-of-17 for 188 yards, 2 touchdowns and 1 interception. The rookie QB also added 2 carries for 18 yards, including an impressive maneuver to avoid a sack and secure a first down with his legs.

Here's a look at some of the notable plays from his preseason debut:

McCarthy's performance was on par with what we hard coming out of training camp. There's no doubt he's still growing into life as a quarterback in the NFL, but his talent is impossible to ignore. He's got great athleticism and his arm talent is elite. If he can settle in and avoid making costly mistakes by trying to do too much, it's hard to see a scenario where he doesn't earn that QB1 job at some point in the very near future.

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Chris Breiler
CHRIS BREILER

Christopher Breiler launched Winged Helmet Media and began covering the Michigan Football program in an unofficial capacity in 2017. He then joined Wolverine Digest as part of the FanNation network in 2021 as a contributing writer, where he served as both a writer and a photographer on game days. In 2024, he took over as the Managing Editor for Michigan Wolverines On SI. His love for Michigan Football brought him into the industry, and his passion for being a content creator has led to some amazing experiences along the way.

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