Week 1 spotlight centers on JJ McCarthy as the Vikings’ late surge on national TV fuels fantasy optimism. The offense showed execution in the fourth, highlighting play design, poise under pressure, and a potential ceiling when protection holds. The discussion also flags Jordan Mason’s late-night breakout in Atlanta and the necessity of Darasaw’s status for Minnesota’s line—plus a tape‑driven look at how the run game and screen game could unlock more fantasy upside as the season unfolds.

Injury chatter, play‑calling balance, and tape study shape the pulse for Week 2: Cashman’s absence, Okuda’s concussion protocol, and the ramp for Darasaw loom large. The crew leans into screen usage, interior line play, and the idea that McCarthy’s ceiling rests on a balanced attack, with Jefferson as a constant catalyst and Mason as a potential game‑changer in the backfield.

Vikings rally past the Bears as a patchy start gives way to late-game clarity from JJ McCarthy, who steadies Minnesota with measured, clutch throws and a decisive fourth-quarter drive. Jefferson remains a fantasy cornerstone, while Caleb Williams shows ceiling but nerves in his NFL debut. Minnesota’s improved interior line—Donovan Jackson and Brian O’Neill anchoring the up-front—paves the way for a run-heavy finish with Jordan Mason. Chicago’s DJ Moore remains a prime air-weapon, even as the offense scuffles early.