Posted on Aug 08
Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell pleased with progress of Sam Darnold and J.J. McCarthy in preseason
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Sam Darnold to start for Vikings in preseason opener against Raiders
Why it matters: The Vikings are giving Sam Darnold the opportunity to showcase his skills as the likely starting quarterback for the upcoming season.
Darnold has been taking most of the first-team reps during training camp, indicating the team's confidence in him.
What's new: Coach Kevin O'Connell has not officially named Darnold as the starter but expressed his satisfaction with Darnold's progress in practice.
Yes, but: The Vikings are also eager to see rookie J.J. McCarthy get significant playing time after Darnold's stint, suggesting a potential competition for the starting position.
- O'Connell on McCarthy: "Hopefully [McCarthy will] apply some of the things that he's been doing really well, just as Sam has every day in practice."
What to watch: The performance of both Darnold and McCarthy during the preseason game will be crucial in solidifying the Vikings' early-season plans at quarterback.
- Second-year quarterback Jaren Hall and veteran Nick Mullens could also see playing time if circumstances allow.
What's next: Following the preseason game, the Vikings will have joint practices with the Cleveland Browns, providing further opportunities for evaluation and preparation.
The bottom line: The Vikings are entering a critical phase in determining their starting quarterback, and the preseason game will serve as an important stepping stone in that process.