Vikings are 'enthusiastic' about QB J.J. McCarthy's backup

One week after earning the NFC Offensive Player of the Week award, quarterback J.J. McCarthy threw two interceptions and led the Minnesota Vikings to just six points in a loss to the Atlanta Falcons. 

In Week 3, the Vikings are turning to backup quarterback Carson Wentz to get the start against the Cincinnati Bengals while McCarthy recovers from a high ankle sprain injury. 

Per Dianna Russini of The Athletic, Minnesota is "enthusiastic" about seeing what Wentz can do against the Bengals after what he showed in practice during Week 2 when McCarthy was absent.

"Wentz took every rep while McCarthy was at the hospital for the birth of his son," Russini wrote. "Wentz ran the show, and O’Connell said the ball only hit the ground once and that Wentz was in complete command. And after a full week of practice with Wentz getting all the first-team reps, the Vikings are even more enthusiastic."

Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell liked the way Wentz ran the huddle and pre-snap during the practice session. Minnesota wants to speed up its pre-snap. He looked crisp throwing the ball, something the Vikings need on Sunday.

Carson Wentz could help lead Minnesota Vikings to Week 3 win

Wentz, the No. 2 pick in the 2016 draft by the Philadelphia Eagles, lost his only game as a starter for the Kansas City Chiefs in 2024. He's 47-46-1 as a starter during his nine years in the league. During that time, he has thrown for 22,410 yards, 153 touchdowns, and 67 interceptions.

The Vikings aren't expecting Wentz to be a hero. But if he can be a solid game manager against the Bengals, who are without their starting quarterback, Joe Burrow, Minnesota has a good chance to start the season 2-1.