27 - 24

(Sep 8, 2025 · Week 1)

The lights of Monday Night Football in primetime might’ve been bright, but in a pressure-packed NFL debut, they certainly didn’t shine to the level that J.J. McCarthy did on Sept. 8, 2025. Confirming the Vikings’ belief to be correct throughout a dazzling second-half showcase, Minnesota’s new signal caller took command of the spotlight in the fourth quarter, outwitting — and outspeeding — the Bears’ defense during a game-clinching 14-yard touchdown run. The noticeable fire in McCarthy’s eyes went rewarded with a 27-24 win over Chicago, and in his career’s opening chapter, the former Wolverine starred through a 143-yard, two-touchdown passing showcase (on 13-of-20), alongside a two-carry, 25-yard, one-score support. Such efforts helped McCarthy earn the NFC’s Offensive Player of the Week thereafter.

Read more