Vikings Start Carson Wentz Against Eagles Amid JJ McCarthy Injury Recovery

The Minnesota Vikings will face the Philadelphia Eagles in a crucial NFC matchup with the Vikings relying on veteran quarterback Carson Wentz due to J.J. McCarthy's ongoing ankle injury, which has kept him sidelined since Week 2. McCarthy, a former first-round pick who missed his rookie season, is expected to return around Week 9, but the Vikings may hesitate to bench Wentz if he continues to perform well, potentially complicating the quarterback situation. Head coach Kevin O'Connell confirmed Wentz will start against the Eagles, while McCarthy remains a limited participant in practice and is listed as questionable for upcoming games. The Eagles, coming off a two-game losing streak, will test the Vikings' defense, particularly against running back Saquon Barkley, the 2024 AP Offensive Player of the Year, who has been quiet lately. The Vikings aim to improve their run defense and offensive tempo early in the game to secure a victory, especially given the Eagles' struggles this season. This matchup not only highlights the Vikings' quarterback dilemma but also sets the stage for a pivotal game impacting both teams' playoff aspirations.