Final exams for J.J. McCarthy
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J.J. McCarthy would like to bring more smiles to Kevin O'Connell's face. Photo: Stacy Revere/Getty Images
The Vikings may have been knocked out of playoff contention, but the last three games of the season — starting Sunday in New York — are vital to the team's long-term future.
The big picture: Minnesota's disappointing 6-8 record soured many fans who had high hopes after last year's 14-3 season. Add to that some putrid play by first-year quarterback J.J. McCarthy, and the angst reached Christian Ponder-era levels.
Yes, but: After head coach Kevin O'Connell simplified the offense, McCarthy has looked much better the past two games — both wins.
What we're watching: If McCarthy wants to lock himself into a starting job for next season, he'll need to keep the momentum going and get on the same page with star wide receiver Justin Jefferson, who has caught just six passes for 37 yards over the last three games.
Plus, the Vikings have a chance to play spoiler to division rivals Detroit (on Christmas) and Green Bay (Jan. 4), perhaps knocking them out of the playoffs or hurting their seeding in the postseason.
Flashback: Three years ago, the Lions were already eliminated from the playoffs when they upset the Packers in the last game of the season, ruining Green Bay's chances at the postseason. The Lions made a statement in that game and have been one of the top teams in the NFL since then.
- McCarthy and the Vikings have a chance to put the NFC North on notice in a similar fashion.
The other side: There's a segment of the fan base that would rather the team pull the plug on McCarthy now and tank for a good draft pick. Their concern is that his poor mechanics and penchant for only throwing fastballs will doom him.
The bottom line: McCarthy's early-season performance was bad enough that the Vikings will have to bring in a veteran quarterback who can, at a minimum, provide insurance, and perhaps even win the spot if J.J.'s not improving.