During the Minnesota Vikings’ opening drive against the Chicago Bears, they encountered a crucial third-and-2 situation. The Bears presented a blitz formation, suggesting man-to-man coverage, but this was a tactical disguise. Instead, they transitioned into a zone defense while employing a four-man rush, ultimately sacking quarterback J.J. McCarthy. Renowned Hall of Famer Peyton Manning provided insight into this play, noting that McCarthy, like many players, was likely deceived by the defensive setup. “Eli, I can tell you I played 18 years. I thought it was man. They confused me. I can promise you, J.J. McCarthy thought it was man. I know he was confused,” said Manning, who still holds the rookie record for most interceptions in a season.
Manning continued to elaborate on the challenges of a rookie quarterback, stating, “That’s part of it. That redshirt year, you don’t get that. You don’t get live plays at Soldier Field. He’ll figure it out. I think he’s made of the right stuff.” This reflection highlighted the learning curve faced by young quarterbacks in high-pressure environments.
The game took a pivotal turn in the third quarter when McCarthy threw a pick-six, allowing the Bears to extend their lead to 17-6. Both Manning brothers reacted in real-time, expressing concern that the Vikings would miss an opportunity to call a timeout as the play clock dwindled. “Oh no,” Peyton exclaimed, as defensive back Nahshon Wright intercepted the pass and returned it 74 yards for a touchdown. Manning later critiqued McCarthy’s decision-making on the play, stating, “The corner never got out of his backpedal. You can’t throw it if the corner never backs up.”
Following a missed field goal by the Bears at the start of the fourth quarter, former Vikings legend Randy Moss made his appearance, providing analysis after undergoing treatment for bile duct cancer. Moss assessed the Vikings’ performance, particularly in the passing game, noting, “It looks like they’re missing a little bit of chemistry.”
A recurring feature on the ManningCast involves guests predicting red zone scores, and Moss correctly anticipated that Justin Jefferson would find the end zone shortly before McCarthy delivered a remarkable low throw to Jefferson, narrowing the score. Moss praised McCarthy’s ball placement, while Peyton expressed admiration, exclaiming, “What a throw!” This momentum continued when McCarthy later connected with Aaron Jones for the go-ahead touchdown.
Moss’s lively commentary included humorous references to his time as a player, such as when he jokingly declined to take reps as the Patriots quarterback. He also playfully remarked on Josh Oliver wearing his old number 84, quipping, “Don’t look at the number!” after Oliver was stopped short of the goal line on a two-point conversion attempt. A graphic displayed a tweet noting the Vikings had rallied for two touchdowns since Moss joined the broadcast, prompting Moss to shout, “Whoever sent that tweet out, make it three!” after McCarthy’s rushing touchdown.
As the broadcast drew to a close, Eli Manning provided a succinct summary of McCarthy’s performance, saying, “I like also that they struggled in the first half. McCarthy threw a pick six, so he knows it’s not easy. He was probably humbled a little bit but he fought through it, made some plays and made some throws. Got into a rhythm.” This commentary encapsulated the resilience McCarthy displayed throughout the game.
Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell is known for his passionate postgame speeches, and the first one of the 2025 season did not disappoint, energizing fans and players alike. In contrast, the Bears were left grappling with disappointment after squandering a double-digit lead. Quarterback Williams struggled with crucial throws, and head coach Ben Johnson faced criticism for not attempting an onside kick after the Bears closed the gap to 27-24.
Despite the ups and downs, the Vikings’ special teams were largely impressive. Myles Price emerged as their best punt returner in years, while Will Reichard successfully executed a 59-yard field goal. Ryan Wright had a solid performance, aside from one misstep, and Eric Wilson partially blocked a punt, contributing to the team’s overall success.
In the upcoming Wednesday podcast, fans can look forward to a return of Vikings poetry along with insights from Randy Johnson on Gophers football. For those who missed the special postgame edition podcast from Monday, it is available for listening now.
