J.J. McCarthy NFL Debut: Vikings QB Throws 2 TDs in Stunning 4th Quarter Comeback vs Bears

J.J. McCarthy NFL Debut: Vikings QB Throws 2 TDs in Stunning 4th Quarter Comeback vs Bears

J.J. McCarthy made his highly anticipated NFL debut on Monday night, leading the Minnesota Vikings to a thrilling 27-24 comeback victory over the Chicago Bears in what will be remembered as one of the most dramatic quarterback debuts in recent memory.

Final Stats:

• Passing: 143 yards, 2 passing TDs

• Rushing: 25 yards, 1 rushing TD

• Total TDs: 3

• Completion Rate: 5-of-8 in first half, improved significantly in second half

McCarthy struggled early, throwing for just 52 yards and no touchdowns in the first half as Minnesota trailed 10-6 at halftime. The third quarter brought more adversity when he threw a pick-six, putting the Vikings in an even deeper hole.

But the fourth quarter belonged entirely to McCarthy.

McCarthy led Minnesota on three consecutive scoring drives in the fourth quarter, showcasing the composure and talent that made him a first-round pick:

1. Touchdown pass to Justin Jefferson - The connection Vikings fans have been waiting to see

2. Touchdown pass to Aaron Jones - Put Minnesota ahead for the first time

3. Rushing touchdown - McCarthy sealed the victory himself

Though McCarthy isn’t technically a rookie, he missed all of his rookie season and is seeing NFL action for the first time this year. The 2024 first-round pick spent his entire rookie campaign recovering from injury, making Monday’s performance his true introduction to NFL football.

The comeback victory against a division rival sends a clear message about the Vikings’ 2025 season prospects. Vikings fans are feeling good about their new starting quarterback after the impressive turnaround, and McCarthy proved he can handle adversity at the NFL level.

While there were going to be some growing pains, McCarthy’s fourth-quarter heroics demonstrated exactly why Minnesota invested a first-round pick in him and why the franchise feels confident moving forward with him under center.