Growing pains were another perfect definition to describe J.J. McCarthy’s performance against the Chicago Bears on Sunday.
The Vikings would take a second straight loss in the closing seconds, losing 19-17 to the Chicago Bears on a game winning field goal, dropping their record now to 4-6.
McCarthy again was the focal point of this loss, with multiple instances showing that his accuracy needs to be worked on heading towards the rest of this season, and heading into next season. Countless times, McCarthy had a receiver with a very generous window open up to complete the throws, and missed the receiver badly, either ending the drive, or resulting in a turnover.
McCarthy finished the game 16-35 for 150 yards, and a touchdown, with two more interceptions tallied on his season total.
Frustration also started to show from all, including fans raining US Bank Stadium with boo’s, receivers showing their anger in not getting the opportunity to make a play, and McCarthy himself showed multiple times cursing to himself with hands on his helmet.
Again, the phrase “Growing Pains” comes to mind. McCarthy has a lot to work on, in just 5 starts in his NFL career, from his decision making, to his accuracy, even down to his footwork, McCarthy is showing that he is a work in progress, and it will take time for the team and him to come together and produce an offense capable of playing consistently week in and week out.
Patience is also another key word, but the problem with it is just that. The league is a no patience league, and if promises and potential aren’t being lived up to, a replacement is on the way before you can bat an eye. McCarthy will need to show some improvement on ALL levels heading to the conclusion of this year, and going into next year, or the patience will run out and the Vikings will be looking for another quarterback to lead the team.
With the loss, the Vikings dropped to 4-6 on the year, and will have another tough task next week as they travel to Green Bay to take on the inconsistent Packers in Lambeau. Can McCarthy wake up and lead the Vikings into Green Bay and get back on track for a win?
Photo Credit: The NFL, the Minnesota Vikings, NFL Players Association.
Comments