Contingency Quarterbacks Steal Limelight
Vikings Brace for Carson Wentz's Debut as Starting Quarterback
The Minnesota Vikings are set to face the Cincinnati Bengals (2-0) in Minneapolis, with a significant change in their quarterback position. Due to an injury to J.J. McCarthy, Carson Wentz will make his team debut as the starting quarterback.
Wentz, a former Minnesota Vikings fan, spent his career with various teams before joining the Vikings. His last win as a starter was with the Los Angeles Rams in 2023, while his last loss was with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2024.
In the Vikings' last game, they suffered a defeat against the Atlanta Falcons with a score of 22-6. The team will be without their starting running back, Aaron Jones, who is out due to a hamstring injury. Jordan Mason is expected to take on a more significant role as the backup running back in Week 3.
The Bengals, on the other hand, have started their season strong, winning their first two games. They defeated the Cleveland Browns (17-16) and the Jacksonville Jaguars (31-27) at home. However, their star quarterback, Joe Burrow, is out due to turf toe and underwent surgery on Friday. In his absence, Jake Browning, the No. 2 quarterback, will start.
Browning spent the 2021 and 2022 seasons on the Cincinnati Bengals' practice squad before becoming the backup quarterback in 2024 and then stepping in as the starting quarterback during the 2025 season due to an injury to Joe Burrow. He has shown more comfort stepping into the spotlight this time around.
Christian Darrisaw, who was out due to a season-ending knee injury last season, is listed as questionable for the game against the Bengals. Ryan Kelly and Justin Skule, offensive linemen, were ruled out for the game. Both Darrisaw and Skule returned to practice after missing days due to concussions.
All-Pro teammate, Justin Jefferson, will be on the field with Wentz. Ja'Marr Chase leads the Bengals in receptions with 16, yards with 191, and has scored one touchdown. Chase Brown has the most rushing yards for the Bengals with 90 and a score.
As the Vikings prepare for this crucial game, they will be looking to bounce back from their recent loss and make a strong showing with their new starting quarterback. The game against the Bengals promises to be an exciting match-up.
