Vikings Preseason: McCarthy’s Progress, Patriots Reaction, & More

As Vikings fans gear up for the September 8 opener against Chicago, episodes like this one from Two Old Bloggers offer more than just recaps, they join you in the Vikings preseason Patriots reaction—they provide insider perspectives on what could make or break the season. For instance, with J.J. McCarthy stepping into the spotlight as a first-rear starting quarterback, understanding his growth isn’t just interesting; it’s essential for predicting the team’s playoff potential. Additionally, roster battles at positions like running back and wide receiver could determine depth in a injury-prone league. However, what sets this apart is Dave Stefano’s solo deep dive, blending optimism with critical analysis, making it worth your time if you’re a casual fan wanting quick insights or a die-hard seeking debate fuel. The episode resolves lingering questions from training camp, leaving you excited for what’s next.

Joint Practices: Building Momentum Against the Patriots

The Vikings hit two key milestones this week: joint practices with the New England Patriots and their preseason clash. Head coach Kevin O’Connell confirmed J.J. McCarthy would sit out the game, but not before the he impressed in over 60 reps per day during practices. “That’s a normal game load,” Stefano noted, emphasizing how McCarthy handled full-speed 11-on-11 drills without the physical hits.

Transitioning to McCarthy’s development, Stefano highlighted the quarterback’s accuracy improvements. “J.J. McCarthy went 17 for 20, hitting the last 12 in a row,” he said, contrasting it with Bears Caleb Williams’ 55% camp completion rate. This progress addresses earlier concerns about spotty ball placement, a consistent critique since spring. Moreover, McCarthy’s confidence shines through: “He’s getting the team lined up on time and in sync,” Stefano added. For fans, this matters because mental resilience often separates NFL busts from stars—think Josh Allen’s early struggles turning into MVP-caliber play.

However, not everything was flawless. Stefano pointed out the first day’s roughness but praised Thursday’s dominance: “The Vikings basically came out on top, giving the Patriots a butt whooping.” Encouragingly, players like Donovan Jackson brought “nastiness” missing from the offensive line, pancaking two defenders on a screen to Aaron Jones. As Stefano put it, “That’s the kind of edge we’ve lacked for years.”

Preseason Game Recap: Depth Shines Amid Sloppiness

Moving forward, the Vikings fell 20-12 to the Patriots on August 16 at U.S. Bank Stadium, but with starters like McCarthy, Justin Jefferson, and Aaron Jones resting, the focus was on backups. “It was mostly sloppy and boring,” Stefano admitted, citing 10 penalties for 85 yards that irked O’Connell. Yet, highlights emerged, resolving doubts about special teams and kicking.

Kicker Will Reichard stole the show, going 4-for-4 on field goals (34, 54, 47, 27 yards). “Will Reichard was absolutely the star—perfect in preseason,” Stefano enthused, banishing fears of the “kicker curse.” On offense, quarterbacks struggled overall: Sam Howell (1/5, 13 yards, INT) looked shaky, while Brett Rypien (7/11, 83 yards) and Max Brosmer (12/20, 120 yards, INT) showed flashes. Brosmer’s late drive to the 13-yard line nearly tied it, but an interception ended hopes.

Defensively, missed tackles plagued the unit, allowing a 12-yard TD pass from ex-Viking Josh Dobbs. “Horrible tackling,” Stefano echoed fan frustrations. Rushing was lackluster at 80 yards, but Zavier Scott’s 28 yards on 10 carries plus 44 receiving yards hinted at his rising stock. Wideouts like Tim Jones (5 catches, 68 yards) and Jeshaun Jones (4 catches, 39 yards) impressed, while Lucky Jackson’s two drops hurt his case.

Special teams provided thrills, with Myles Price’s 81-yard kickoff return setting up a field goal. “Miles Price is a lock as our returner,” Stefano declared. Overall, the game exposed penalties and turnovers but built confidence in depth players, proving why preseason matters for roster tweaks.

Roster Battles: Who Makes the Cut?

As cuts loom by August 27, intrigue centers on backups. At quarterback, Stefano questioned Sam Howell’s QB2 status: “Is he the backup? We’ll see after Tennessee.” Rising: Rypien’s steady play and Brosmer’s quick decisions (“fast eyes, fast mind”). Falling: Howell’s interception and ball-holding issues. “Brosmer’s poise could secure QB3,” Stefano predicted, sparking debate on trading for a veteran like Drew Lock.

For running back, Zavier Scott edges Ty Chandler for RB3. “Scott’s led rushing two straight games—explosive per KOC,” Stefano said, noting his versatility in pass-catching and returns. Chandler’s meager 12 yards on three carries pales in comparison. This battle resolves why depth is crucial: with Aaron Jones and Jordan Mason as starters, a reliable third option handles injuries or rotations.

Wide receiver depth raises alarms amid injuries to Rondale Moore (knee) and Jordan Addison (suspension). Rising: Price’s returns (“81-yard KR makes him a near-lock”) and the Jones duo’s consistency. Falling: Jackson’s drops and Tai Felton’s fumble. “Injuries open 2-3 spots,” Stefano warned, suggesting external help.

Tight end favors veteran Nick Vannett (2 catches, 21 yards) over rookies like Ben Yurosek. Cornerback mixes Mekhi Blackmon’s uneven play (allowed deep passes) with Kahlef Hailassie’s versatility. Defensive line risers include Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins (TFL, pressure) and Bo Richter. Special teams locks Reichard and potentially punter Oscar Chapman over Ryan Wright.

These battles aren’t just filler—they determine if the Vikings can contend despite injuries, resolving preseason hype into tangible roster strength.

Vikingsland News: Flores Lawsuit, Injuries, and Draft Reflections

Shifting to off-field buzz, Brian Flores’ lawsuit against the NFL for racial discrimination advances to trial. “From a Vikings perspective, this is great news,” Stefano said. Why? It keeps Flores as coordinator, despite his top-five defense last year. “As long as it’s active, he’s unlikely to land a head coaching job,” he explained, benefiting Minnesota’s playoff aspirations.

Health concerns loom for center Ryan Kelly, 32, who’s missed 10 games recently. “He’s been nicked up in camp,” Stefano noted, praising his leadership for McCarthy but worrying about durability. Backup Michael Jurgens’ snapping issues amplify the risk.

Injuries from practices include Josh Metellus’ minor shoulder tweak and Jalen Nailor’s hand jam—still under evaluation. “With Addison suspended and Moore out, we can’t afford Nailor issues,” Stefano stressed, hinting at adding a veteran wideout.

Finally, linebacker Brian Asamoah’s release marks another 2022 draft bust. “Eighth player gone from that class,” Stefano lamented. Drafted for Ed Donatell’s scheme, Asamoah didn’t fit Flores’ system, outshined by Ivan Pace Jr. “He was undersized but athletic—just not for us,” Stefano reflected. Tennessee signed him quickly, offering a fresh start.

This news ties back to why the episode matters: It contextualizes how off-field factors like lawsuits and injuries could sink or elevate the season, resolving preseason uncertainties with forward-looking optimism.

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Optimism Amid Challenges

Ultimately, this Two Old Bloggers episode resolves why Vikings fans should tune in—by transforming preseason ambiguity into actionable insights. McCarthy’s stacking good days builds hype for his debut, while roster winners like Scott and Price add depth. News like Flores’ stability bolsters defense, outweighing worries over injuries and draft misses. As Stefano closed, “We covered McCarthy’s progress, the game, and Vikingsland. SKOL Vikings!”

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Question:

What do you think—should Max Brosmer leapfrog Sam Howell as the Vikings’ QB2, or is experience too valuable? Share your take below!