After his disastrous Vikings debut, Kyler Murray finally has a chance to show what he can bring to Minnesota’s offense in Week 3.
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kyler Murray is set to return to the starting lineup Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after clearing the NFL's concussion protocol. After suffering a concussion just 11 snaps into Minnesota's season opener against the Green Bay Packers, ending what was supposed to be the beginning of a new chapter in his career.
Instead, Murray was forced to watch as Carson Wentz took over and helped the Vikings start the season 2-0 with a win over the Chicago Bears in Week 2.
For Murray, this is an opportunity to finally begin showing why Minnesota believes he gives them the best chance to win.
That is exactly what makes Sunday's matchup so important for Murray.
He doesn't necessarily need to put together a spectacular performance to validate Minnesota's decision. He does, however, need to start establishing an identity within Kevin O'Connell's offense and prove that he can operate the system.
The Vikings have already proved they can win games with their defense carrying much of the load. Minnesota held Chicago to just three points in Week 2, while Brian Flores' defense has produced eight sacks and four takeaways through two games. The Vikings also lead the NFL with a 79.3% blitz rate, according to Pro Football Focus.
That defensive success gives Murray some room to settle back into the offense and get back in a groove.
At the same time, it raises the importance of maximizing the opportunities Minnesota gives him.
The Vikings did not bring Murray to Minnesota simply to manage games. His ability to extend plays and use his legs adds a different element to an offense that has spent the first two weeks adjusting without him.
Sunday will be the first real opportunity to see what that looks like.
There is also an intriguing personal storyline waiting on the other side of the field. Murray will face Baker Mayfield, his former Oklahoma teammate and fellow No. 1 overall pick. Murray has won both of his previous NFL matchups with Mayfield, so it will be interesting if that puts a chip on either players shoulder.
For Murray, the focus is much simpler.
He finally gets to play and be out there with his teammates.
After an interrupted debut and a week watching from the sideline, Murray has a chance to turn the page against Tampa Bay. The Vikings have already managed a 2-0 record without seeing what their new quarterback can really do.
Now, Murray gets his opportunity to show them.
