McCarthy's NFL debut sparked Minnesota's dramatic 27-24 comeback win in Chicago. After a slow start, the 22-year-old rookie rewired the offense in the second half, finishing 13 of 20 for 143 yards and accounting for three touchdowns in the fourth quarter—an unprecedented feat for a debuting QB. His leadership on the sideline and conviction during the rally energized the Vikings, who leaned on a stout defense and Jordan Mason’s late push on the ground.

Javon Hargrave recalled McCarthy telling the team, “he's got us,” at halftime, a moment echoed by Kevin O’Connell’s praise of the “unbelievable look” in his eyes. Jefferson connected on a late TD pass, and McCarthy capped the night with a 14-yard scoring run, proving Minnesota’s faith in him may be justified moving forward.

J.J. McCarthy’s NFL debut erupts in the second half, becoming the first player to contribute to three touchdowns in the fourth quarter of his debut. He helps lead a 27-24 comeback win, starting the burst with a 13-yard TD to Justin Jefferson, then a 27-yard TD to Aaron Jones, and finally a 14-yard read-option TD. Vikings falter after a slow first half and a third-quarter pick-six, while McCarthy silences doubters with guided precision and timely improvisation.

The performance jolts the Bears’ offense and injects instant optimism into fantasy outlooks around McCarthy, Jefferson, and Jones. Reichard’s long halftime kick underscored the night’s volatility, while the game script teased a high-variance future for Chicago’s signal-caller and his array of weapons as they navigate bye-week adjustments and defensive adjustments from opponents.