12 Snap Reactions to the Vikings’ Night in Dallas

McCarthy appears to be the real deal.

2. Kevin O’Connell’s last two games have featured a masterclass in playcalling, and we will reiterate that any theories about “take away his playcalling” are dumb. O’Connell’s playbook works when the quarterback doesn’t play historically bad. Every successful playcaller’s playbook will be doomed when the quarterback plays like JaMarcus Russell. It’s not supernatural.

3. Jalen Nailor continues to forge his chemistry with McCarthy, convenient for a guy whose contract expires in mere weeks. It would almost feel criminal to let Nailor depart after McCarthy has built a productive on-the-field relationship with him.

4. The Vikings’ draft position went from 11th to 12th, so even that slide for the “please give us a higher draft pick crowd” is menial.

5. For a second straight game, Minnesota ran the ball more than it passed. More please.

This is the blueprint for any football team — and assuredly the way for one with a young quarterback. It’s noteworthy because the Vikings weren’t very efficient (2.8 yards per carry), yet they didn’t abandon the run; O’Connell tends to do so when a lead is lost. He has not in the last two games.

Jonathan Greenard is hurt, so that will turn into a Week 16 storyline. It appeared to be his shoulder again, but because Dallas Turner is coming into his own in real-time, Minnesota’s defense should be just fine at the Giants if Greenard cannot play.

7. Will Reichard outperformed Brandon Aubrey, and no one saw that coming. To give you an example of where we’re at with kickers in 2025, it felt weird and shameful for Aubrey to miss a 59-yarder. That’s how good he usually is.

8. McCarthy and friends were 3 for 4 in the redzone (scoring touchdowns). That right there was the difference in the game. There were contests earlier this season when Minnesota could not score inside the 20.

9. Justin Jefferson has another quiet night, but he doesn’t get too upset when his team wins. Eventually, his chemistry with McCarthy will click, and the Vikings’ offense will erupt.

10. Andrew Van Ginkel and the aforementioned Greenard combined for 7 QB hits. That’s impressive. Harrison Smith also turned back the clock a bit, too, and performed well. This is his farewell tour.

reaching the postseason. If so, that game will be extra fun.

Bonus: If McCarthy stacks competent games to close out the season, the franchise probably just needs a high-end backup quarterback from free agency or via trade in March. McCarthy’s lightbulb moment has glowed that brightly in the last seven days. He just can’t regress at MetLife Stadium or show that putrid version of himself.

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