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September 19, 2025
J.J. McCarthy Makes Record NFL Debut, Leads Vikings Past Bears
Every once in a while, the NFL introduces a rookie who seems destined for greatness. In his debut, J.J. McCarthy wrote his name into the record books by becoming the first quarterback in league history to account for three fourth-quarter touchdowns in his first career game.
The Vikings looked dead in the water for most of the night, but McCarthy ignited an 11-point comeback with a fearless passing display and a key rushing touchdown. Fans at Soldier Field witnessed not only a game, but the start of what could be a new era in Minnesota football.
Overcoming Early Struggles
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The night didn’t start smoothly for McCarthy. For three quarters, he managed just 42 passing yards, completing short throws but struggling to move the ball consistently. He also threw a costly interception, which was returned for a 74-yard Bears touchdown.
At halftime, coach Kevin O’Connell told reporters that he looked McCarthy in the eyes and told him, “You are going to bring us back to win this game.” That belief clearly paid off.
In the fourth quarter alone, McCarthy went 6-for-8 passing for 101 yards and two touchdowns, adding a rushing score on a designed keeper.
Photo by Getty Images
Key Plays That Changed the Game
Momentum swung dramatically in the final 15 minutes:
Touchdown to Justin Jefferson (13 yards): McCarthy’s first career TD pass came in the clutch, cutting Chicago’s lead and sparking belief.
Touchdown to Aaron Jones (27 yards): On the very next drive, McCarthy connected deep with Jones to give Minnesota the lead. A successful two-point conversion to Adam Thielen made it 20-17.
Rushing Touchdown (14 yards): With less than six minutes left, McCarthy tucked the ball and powered into the end zone, silencing the Chicago crowd.
From there, the Vikings defense did just enough to preserve the win.
Vikings Defense Steps Up in Crucial Moments
While McCarthy will get the headlines, the defense deserves credit for keeping Minnesota in striking distance. Javon Hargrave recorded two sacks, and the secondary held Chicago’s receivers in check for most of the night.
A missed 50-yard field goal by Cairo Santos in the fourth quarter gave the Vikings great field position, which McCarthy turned into his first touchdown drive. Those defensive stops set the stage for the comeback.
Standout Performers of the Night
J.J. McCarthy (Vikings): 13/20, 143 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT; 25 rushing yards, 1 rushing TD.
Justin Jefferson (Vikings): 44 yards, 1 TD, proving once again why he’s one of the league’s elite receivers.
Aaron Jones (Vikings): 44 receiving yards, 27-yard touchdown, plus 23 rushing yards.
Caleb Williams (Bears): 21/35, 210 yards, 1 TD, 58 rushing yards, 1 rushing TD.
D’Andre Swift (Bears): 20 carries for 65 yards, working as the offense’s steady contributor.
Betting Breakdown: How McCarthy Shook the Odds
From a betting standpoint, this game was massive:
Live Odds Swing: The Bears were heavy favorites entering the fourth quarter. Minnesota’s comeback flipped moneyline bets dramatically in the final minutes.
Over/Under Impact: The game opened with a modest points total. McCarthy’s late explosion pushed it past expectations, rewarding over bettors.
Player Props: McCarthy’s passing and rushing totals both went over projections in the fourth quarter alone—something bettors will remember going forward.
For sportsbooks, this debut highlighted why in-game betting is so popular—momentum can shift in just a few drives.
Conclusion: A Star Is Born in Minnesota
J.J. McCarthy’s NFL debut wasn’t just about breaking records—it was about showing poise, resilience, and leadership in the toughest of situations. After missing an entire season due to injury, the rookie came back with a performance that Vikings fans will never forget.
For Minnesota, this could mark the beginning of a new chapter with McCarthy at the helm. For bettors, his ability to turn games upside down makes him one of the most exciting players to watch this season. If this first game is any indication, McCarthy isn’t just the Vikings’ quarterback of the future—he’s already their quarterback of the present.
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September 18, 2025
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