J.J. McCarthy's Path to Success vs. Falcons Revealed by NFL Analyst Ryan Clark

McCarthy's Quest for Consistency

The former Michigan star was mostly ineffective through three quarters in Week 1 against the Bears, throwing a costly interception that went the other way for six points before rallying for three touchdowns in the fourth quarter, an NFL record among first year starters.

Clark believes he knows what McCarthy and the Vikings must do to set the tone against Penix Jr. and Raheem Morris' Falcons this weekend.

“I think the first thing, J.J. McCarthy has to start faster, when you look at that game just the inconsistency and the throws,” Clark said on ESPN's' 'NFL Live' show.

“Justin (Jefferson) said he took about two steps too short on that interception," Clark added, an indication of a Jefferson mistake or possible miscommunication between the two players.

"What we did see was toughness and perseverance," Clark continued.

“When you think about J.J. McCarthy now, it's going to be, 'How do we build upon what we saw late in that game.'

“If you're (Vikings coach) Kevin O'Connell, it's gonna be, start with the run, get him into play action and see how many opportunities you have to get Justin Jefferson isolated one-on-one.”

Penix Jr., McCarthy Showdown Draws Near

McCarthy and Penix Jr. have completely different play styles and attitudes on the field with McCarthy showing off his gritty running skills last week in the fourth quarter and Penix Jr. known more for his passing accuracy.

Penix Jr.'s left-handed delivery doesn't have the same velocity as McCarthy's right-handed passes most of the time but both players have shown they can make the right plays at the highest level of football.

Sunday night's game between the Falcons and Vikings is a must-watch for fans of great quarterback talents with both players seemingly on their way up the charts and ready to show whether they are ready for the limelight on national television.