Minnesota needed contributions from everywhere to survive Tampa Bay, a reminder of how little margin for error the Vikings have while their offense struggles to find its footing.
The Vikings are on a seven-game winning streak after learning to win ugly following playoff elimination last season. Now they’re carrying that mentality into 2026.
Caleb Williams’ injury and a blocked field goal swung Sunday’s game toward the Vikings. What happened next could have consequences well beyond one afternoon in Chicago.
Murray remains in concussion protocol after getting hurt against Green Bay. Wentz threw three TDs in relief and will make the 100th start of his NFL career Sunday in Chicago.
O’Connell’s recognition of new GM Nolan Teasley and 28-year Vikings executive Rob Brzezinski offered an early glimpse of how the franchise’s new leadership dynamic is taking shape.
After 14 years with the Vikings, the 37-year-old safety contemplated life after the NFL. But competition, his fit in Brian Flores’ defense and a community that wanted him back proved too hard to leave behind.
The Vikings shed expensive veterans and stocked their roster with young players. The result is one of the franchise’s youngest teams in years — and a major test of their ability to develop talent.
McCarthy delivered a 50-yard highlight but struggled to turn opportunities into points. Carson Wentz followed with a much more efficient second quarter.
The star receiver has played with seven quarterbacks since Kirk Cousins’ injury. A promising connection with Murray could provide the stability he needs to keep climbing the NFL record book.
