McCarthy shows layered passing in Vikings win

Reichard scored 10 in 16-10 final

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated 56m1 min read

In the offseason, the Vikings challenged J.J. McCarthy to improve his throwing versatility -- more clubs in the bag. Not Via @JFowlerESPN on X

What happened: Minnesota challenged McCarthy in the offseason to expand his versatility beyond the fastball toward more layered throws. He delivered that layering Sunday in a 16-10 final against Indianapolis.

Why it matters: He lost the quarterback battle, but the improvement kept his development on track in Minnesota. Added touch gives the offense another timing element when games stay tight.

By the numbers: Final: Minnesota Vikings 16, Indianapolis Colts 10. Will Reichard: 10 PTS. Spencer Shrader: 4 PTS.

What to watch: Next is whether Minnesota keeps giving McCarthy chances to use that touch in live action.

Sources

@JFowlerESPN 2026-10-26T17:48:27.459815+00:00

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