The J.J. McCarthy experience played out Sunday night at AT&T Stadium. The Vikings’ young quarterback made some exceptional throws, then missed receivers with some high heaters. McCarthy finished with 250 yards, two touchdowns and an interception on 15-of-24 passing. It was, almost unequivocally, the best performance of his young career. Given the Cowboys’ offensive firepower, the Vikings needed to move the ball. Dallas’ defense was going to provide space as long as the Vikings’ offensive line could pass protect. Even without starting left tackle Christian Darrisaw, the Vikings limited the Cowboys’ pass rush to a measly five pressures. McCarthy did not take a sack.
The time in the pocket allowed him to process the defense, which he was able to do more decisively than in his early-season starts. McCarthy also made plays out of the pocket and threw the ball with accuracy. In the first half, he was flushed from the pocket and connected with receiver Jalen Nailor on a 20-yard attempt while moving to his left. In the second half, McCarthy applied touch to a crossing route to tight end T.J. Hockenson. There were plenty of ups and downs in between. McCarthy sailed multiple passes in the red zone. He also missed Justin Jefferson on an over route in the third quarter. That McCarthy was able to respond from these misses — and an interception on his first pass attempt of the night, a tipped ball — is part of the reason the optimism has existed despite his struggles.
