Carson Wentz excels as Vikings dominate Bengals in 48-10 rout
The Minnesota Vikings faced a critical test as they navigated their second consecutive week without starting quarterback J.J. McCarthy. In his absence, Carson Wentz stepped up remarkably, leading the Vikings to a resounding 48-10 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals at U.S. Bank Stadium.
Wentz’s Impressive Performance
Wentz showcased his experience and skill, completing 14 of 20 passes for 173 yards and tossing two touchdowns. His efficiency was a stark contrast to the struggles of Bengals quarterback Jake Browning, who faltered while trying to fill in for the sidelined Joe Burrow. Wentz’s ability to steer clear of costly turnovers was a significant factor in the Vikings’ commanding win. The Bengals, on the other hand, suffered a nightmarish performance, committing three fumbles and allowing four sacks, which ultimately sealed their fate.
Updates on J.J. McCarthy’s Recovery
While most of the Vikings were practicing at the Sport Ireland campus, McCarthy was on a separate field, continuing his rehabilitation from a high right ankle sprain. This marked the second consecutive week that the young quarterback was unable to participate in practice following his injury on September 14.
Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell provided an update on McCarthy’s condition. He emphasized the importance of monitoring McCarthy’s recovery as the team prepares for a trip to London. “We wanted to get him here through the flight and see how he did with that flight,” O’Connell explained. “As we go through the weekend, he will truly be day-to-day. We’ll see where he is at and if we can start ramping up his workload.”
A Cautious Approach to Recovery
O’Connell made it clear that McCarthy will not return to the field until he is fully healed. The Vikings are taking a cautious approach, aiming to prevent any lingering issues that could affect the quarterback’s performance in the long run. “I want him to get 100 percent healthy,” O’Connell stated. “It’s part of his game to be able to move effectively. His mobility plays a crucial role in his overall accuracy, especially since it’s related to his plant foot.”
The focus remains on ensuring McCarthy is entirely fit before he resumes playing, as any premature return could risk further complications. With the Vikings looking to build on their success, the team is eager to welcome back their starting quarterback when the time is right.
