'Weight of the world on him': Analyst's take on J.J. McCarthy is right on the money

While McCarthy had a forgettable start in his debut against the Chicago Bears in Week 1, he rallied the Vikings back for the win with three total TDs. Since then, his only other start came in a Week 2 loss to the Atlanta Falcons when he was sacked six times and threw two interceptions.

A right ankle injury has kept McCarthy out of action the last five games, putting the ball in Wentz's hands. The offensive line issues have been problematic for both QBs as the Vikings give up the third-most sacks (28) this season, only behind the New York Jets (31) and Tennessee Titans (30), teams that have a combined 1-13 record.

McCarthy was going to be the starter last season, but his season-ending meniscus injury paved the way for Darnold to step in and lead Minnesota to a playoff berth. One year later, Darnold is finding success in Seattle, while McCarthy tries to get healthy and return to the starting role with the Vikings.

The two starts are not enough to have a great read on the young QB, especially when you consider the lack of protection. When McCarthy has been on the field, the decision-making has been poor at times, but he has rarely had time to comfortably drop back in the pocket and examine his options down the field.

The Vikings (3-4) have already equaled their total losses from last season if you factor in the wild-card loss to the Los Angeles Rams. With Thursday night's 37-10 drubbing to the Los Angeles Chargers, the Vikings are in search of some answers quick if they are going to salvage their season.

For someone like McCarthy, who has only made two starts so far and needs all the time he can get to develop, offensive line issues, a poor defensive showing on Thursday night and a subpar record are certainly doing nothing to ease the pressure.