It was a tough day for the “ J.J. McCarthy can only hand the ball off” crowd on Saturday.
The former Michigan football quarterback made his NFL debut for the Minnesota Vikings in their first preseason game against the Raiders. As a former Michigan Football star, this game was a significant milestone in his young career. Sam Darnold started for the Vikings but was pulled after one drive, completing 4/8 for 59 yards.
While Darnold seems to be the clear starter, it may not be long before fans start calling for McCarthy to take his shot. A Rocky Start for J.J.
McCarthy McCarthy entered the game on the Vikings’ second drive, but it wasn’t the smoothest beginning. On a crucial 3rd & 8, McCarthy was forced out of the pocket and, attempting to make a play, threw an interception to Raiders CB Jack Jones. #Raiders CB Jack Jones with a beautiful interception on JJ McCarthy pic.
twitter.com/ZegvfU0dmm — Sanjit T. (@Sanjit__T) August 10, 2024 It wasn’t the start McCarthy had envisioned for his NFL debut , but in a postgame interview, he remained positive: “After the interception, all the nerves went out the window and I just played free.
” McCarthy Bounces Back with 2 Touchdowns After settling down, McCarthy looked more comfortable. Early in the third quarter, he delivered a perfect 45-yard touchdown pass to Trishton Jackson. For those who doubted McCarthy’s deep ball abilities, this play was a statement.
JJ McCarthy’s first career TD pass is a BOMB ( @Vikings ) pic.twit.