Murray debuts as Minnesota’s starting QB and Dart throws for a TD as Vikings beat Giants 13-10

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) — Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kyler Murray made his debut as the team's starter, leading a drive that culminated in a field goal during his first action since being officially named their starting quarterback. Meanwhile, New York Giants' Jaxson Dart, after passing a concussion test, completed a touchdown pass to rookie Malachi Fields, securing a 13-10 victory for the Vikings in their preseason opener on Saturday.

Murray completed two of his three passes for 10 yards as coach Kevin O’Connell fielded his first-team offense, minus star wide receiver Justin Jefferson, for just one series. Backup quarterback J.J. McCarthy, the 10th overall pick in the 2024 draft, struggled in his first possession before settling down to complete 4 of 7 passes for 34 yards.

Giants head coach John Harbaugh, making his debut as the team's coach, faced his first game on the sidelines. Dart was sacked twice on six drop-backs during the game, the second hit coming from Vikings safety Jay Ward, who escorted Dart to the medical tent for concussion evaluation. After returning to the game, Dart completed a 15-yard touchdown pass to rookie Malachi Fields on his final play.

Star Giants receiver Odell Beckham Jr. returned to play with the team that drafted him, catching a 6-yard pass from Jameis Winston and drawing considerable cheers from the crowd. Beckham made one more catch for no gain during the game. Meanwhile, Vikings safety/linebacker Jamal Adams was removed from the game early in the second quarter due to a noncontact knee injury, and O’Connell described the injury as potentially significant.