Carson Wentz’s strong relief performance could give Kevin O’Connell a reason to stick with the veteran over J.J. McCarthy if Murray remains sidelined for Week 2's matchup in Chicago.
With Minnesota Vikings starting quarterback Kyler Murray suffering a concussion in the first quarter of season opening matchup with the Green Bay Packers, forcing Carson Wentz into action earlier than expected. The veteran quarterback responded by helping lead the Vikings to a 39-22 comeback victory, throwing three touchdowns while completing 12 of 19 passes for 133 yards.
Now, if Murray remains in concussion protocol heading into Week 2, Kevin O’Connell will have an interesting decision to make.
O’Connell made it clear before the game that the backup quarterback competition between Wentz and J.J. McCarthy would be handled on a week-to-week basis. Wentz was given the No. 2 spot for the opener, with McCarthy serving as the third quarterback.
That decision was largely based on Wentz’s experience and the belief that he gave Minnesota the best chance to win if thrown into the fire.
After Sunday, it is fair to wonder if that reasoning still applies.
Wentz did not simply come in and manage the game after Murray went down. He helped lead a comeback against a Packers team that had built a 19-10 halftime lead, and Minnesota ultimately scored 29 unanswered points to close out the victory.
That performance carries weight.
If Murray is cleared to return, the decision becomes simple. He is the starter.
But if he is still unavailable, Wentz could have earned another opportunity to prove that Sunday was more than just a strong relief appearance and that he can fill the void until Murray returns.
There is also a practical element to the decision. Minnesota just watched Wentz operate the offense successfully and with poise in a difficult situation. Immediately handing the reins over to McCarthy wouldn't necessarily be very beneficial, especially with the Vikings coming off an impressive divisional win.
At the same time, O’Connell’s week-to-week comments leave the door open for McCarthy. If the coaching staff believes the young quarterback has made significant progress in practice, this could be his chance to reclaim the No. 2 role.
But based strictly on what happened Sunday, Wentz has the strongest argument.
Murray’s health should ultimately determine who starts next week. If he cannot suit up, however, the Vikings may be better served sticking with the quarterback who just helped them overcome adversity and start the season 1-0.
If Kyler Murray is still in concussion protocol next week, should Carson Wentz get another start, or is it the perfect time for the Vikings to give J.J. McCarthy the opportunity and gauge his trade value?
