Vikings stun Cowboys with 34-26 victory as J.J. McCarthy shines
In a remarkable display of resilience, the Minnesota Vikings achieved their first winning streak of the season with a thrilling 34-26 upset against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday night. This victory not only highlighted the Vikings’ ability to string together solid performances but also showcased the breakout talent of quarterback J.J. McCarthy. His impressive showing, coupled with key contributions across all three phases of the game, paved the way for this significant win.
J.J. McCarthy’s breakout performance
The spotlight shone brightly on McCarthy, who delivered what many are calling the best game of his young career. Completing all 55 snaps, he demonstrated poise and precision, pushing the ball downfield with an average depth of target at 11 yards. His stat line featured three big-time throws, while notably avoiding any turnover-worthy plays for the second consecutive week. These metrics earned him an outstanding PFF grade of 89.7, the highest among players with a minimum of 20 snaps.
McCarthy’s connection with his receivers was evident, particularly with Jalen Nailor and T.J. Hockenson, both of whom made crucial contested catches that helped sustain drives. The Vikings’ offensive strategy involved leaning on heavier packages, allowing McCarthy to orchestrate a balanced attack that kept the Cowboys’ defense off balance.
Offensive snap counts reveal depth
A breakdown of the Vikings’ offensive snap counts against the Cowboys highlights the team’s depth and versatility.
Key players and their snap counts (out of 55):
– LG Donovan Jackson: 55
– RG Will Fries: 55
– QB J.J. McCarthy: 55
– C Ryan Kelly: 55
– LT Justin Skule: 55
– WR Justin Jefferson: 53
– RT Brian O’Neill: 45
– TE T.J. Hockenson: 44
– WR Jordan Addison: 35
– RB Aaron Jones: 32
Notably, O’Neill exited the game with an ankle injury in the fourth quarter, leading to Blake Brandel stepping in. This adjustment did not derail the Vikings’ momentum, as they effectively utilized their personnel to maintain a competitive edge.
Defensive efforts shine through
On the defensive side of the ball, the Vikings also stepped up, contributing to the overall success of the team. The defensive snap counts reflect a commitment to performance, with several players logging significant time.
Key players and their snap counts (out of 70):
– LB Blake Cashman: 70
– CB Byron Murphy Jr.: 70
– S Harrison Smith: 70
– S Josh Metellus: 69
– LB Eric Wilson: 68
While injuries sidelined some contributors, the Vikings’ defense held strong. Greenard delivered an impressive performance, notching seven pressures and two half-sacks before aggravating a shoulder injury. Wilson continued to establish himself as a force on the field, leading all off-ball linebackers in pressures this season.
PFF grades underscore standout performances
The individual performances of Vikings players were further underscored by their PFF grades, providing insight into who excelled during this pivotal matchup.
Top 5 PFF grades on offense (min. 20 snaps):
1. McCarthy — 89.7
2. Nailor — 86.0
3. Hockenson — 82.4
4. O’Neill — 74.3
5. Kelly — 70.6
Top 5 PFF grades on defense (min. 20 snaps):
1. Greenard — 90.5
2. Moreau — 79.6
3. Wilson — 78.7
4. Redmond — 72.5
5. Rodgers — 68.3
The Vikings’ offensive line faced challenges, particularly on the left side, where Skule and Jackson struggled but still managed to protect McCarthy, who remarkably wasn’t sacked during the game.
This victory signifies a turning point for the Vikings, showcasing both the promise of J.J. McCarthy and the strength of a balanced team effort. As they look to build on this momentum, the potential for further success becomes increasingly tangible.
