McCarthy’s misfires at QB stand out for the Vikings in a 13-3 preseason loss to the Ravens

J.J. McCarthy's performance as the Minnesota Vikings' starting quarterback in a preseason game against the Baltimore Ravens drew significant criticism. McCarthy completed only 5 of his 10 passes for 81 yards, demonstrating an erratic start. The 10th overall pick in the 2024 draft, McCarthy had missed his rookie year due to knee surgery and had started only 10 games last season because of injuries.

After a solid performance by undrafted rookie Joe Fagnano, who threw a touchdown pass to LaJohntay Wester for the Ravens, it became unclear who would be the No. 2 quarterback behind Kyler Murray in the regular season. McCarthy played four series with the second-team offense before being replaced by 11th-year veteran Carson Wentz.

The Vikings struggled to move the ball, with Tyler Loop scoring two field goals. Fagnano, a fifth-round draft pick from UConn, played well with the third string, going 15 for 20 for 123 yards. The second-team offense, led by Tyler Huntley, stalled repeatedly, but Fagnano excelled with deep reserves, gaining 46 yards on three receiving plays.

Rookie strong safety Keondre Jackson led Baltimore's defense, recording seven tackles, a sack, and a quarterback hit. Max Brosmer finished the second half at quarterback for the Vikings, completing 11 of 17 passes for 98 yards, but was intercepted at the Baltimore 18, as turnovers ended the Vikings' last two possessions. The game concluded with Baltimore winning 13-3, and the Ravens would face Washington in their final preseason game on Friday, while Minnesota traveled to Denver.