Daily Norseman
In the ever-unpredictable world of Minnesota Vikings football, the quarterback position takes center stage once again. J.J. McCarthy’s high ankle sprain has sidelined the second-year signal-caller for 2-4 weeks, forcing veteran Carson Wentz into the starting role against the Cincinnati Bengals on September 21, 2025. This episode of Two Old Bloggers, hosted by Darren Campbell and Dave Stefano with guest Drew Bunting.
Darren Campbell opens by lamenting the timing of McCarthy’s injury, noting it’s “not ideal for J.J.’s development.” He emphasizes McCarthy’s need for game reps to adapt to NFL speed, especially after struggling in seven of eight quarters played. However, Campbell suggests the sprain could be a “blessing in disguise” short-term, as Wentz’s 94 starts bring stability. Dave Stefano agrees, referencing past hot-hand scenarios like 2017’s Case Keenum run. Yet, both warn of messiness if Wentz wins games—potentially benching McCarthy and drawing scrutiny from owners Zygi and Mark Wilf, who built a win-now roster.
Transitioning to current events, the hosts spotlight Wentz’s potential. Campbell highlights O’Connell’s track record with quarterbacks like Sam Darnold and Kirk Cousins, but questions Wentz’s playbook mastery after just a month in Minnesota. Stefano adds, “Seeing is believing.” They stress feeding stars: Justin Jefferson (7 catches, 125 yards in two games) and T.J. Hockenson need more targets to sustain drives. Cam Akers’ return bolsters RB depth amid injuries to Aaron Jones and Ty Chandler. Offensive line struggles persist, with PFF grading ex-Vikings like Garrett Bradbury highly elsewhere—prompting calls for coach Chris Kuper’s accountability. Finally, rookie backup Max Brosmer’s extensive college reps intrigue as a “what if” option.
Drew Bunting joins for a data-driven breakdown. Bengals lead the series 8-7 but are a “soft” 2-0, rushing under 50 yards per game—the first such start since 1940. Vikings are favored by 3, O/U 41.5. Key factors: QB play (Wentz’s experience vs. Jake Browning’s gunslinging) and injuries. Bunting warns of Trey Hendrickson’s edge dominance: “Make somebody else beat you.” Vikings’ defense has allowed just 3 TDs but ranks 30th in run defense. Tidbits include 16 penalties in two games and zero interceptions. Game plan: Spark early offense, contain Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, fix run D, and cut mistakes. Prediction: Vikings 27-24.
As the Vikings head into a heritage game honoring Jim Marshall, this episode of *Two Old...
