NFL Preseason Game Preview: Patriots at Vikings | J.J. McCarthy Not Playing, Players to Watch & More

As the NFL preseason rolls on, football fans are gearing up for an exciting matchup between the New England Patriots and the Minnesota Vikings. While it’s still early in the season and much of the focus is on player evaluation and team chemistry, there’s no shortage of excitement surrounding this game. With key players sitting out and fresh faces aiming to make a name for themselves, this preseason showdown promises to be an important one.

Key Players to Watch

While many of the starting players are likely to be limited in this preseason game, there are still plenty of intriguing players to keep an eye on. Both teams have young talent looking to make an impact, and this game will be an opportunity for those players to prove they belong on the roster when the regular season begins.

New England Patriots:

Mac Jones (QB): The second-year quarterback for the Patriots is still in the spotlight as he works to establish himself as the leader of the team. This game will be a chance for Jones to fine-tune his skills and show the coaching staff that he’s ready to take the next step in his development.
Bailey Zappe (QB): After a surprising performance last season, Zappe is looking to build on his success in the preseason. With Jones likely to play limited snaps, Zappe could get more playing time, giving him a chance to show off his skills and possibly earn a spot as the backup quarterback.
Tyquan Thornton (WR): The speedy wide receiver had flashes of brilliance in his rookie year and is aiming to carve out a bigger role in the offense. This game will provide a good opportunity for Thornton to showcase his talent and develop chemistry with the quarterbacks.
Marcus Jones (CB): The cornerback has been a standout in camp, and his performance in this game could go a long way toward securing a place in the starting rotation. Watch for Jones to make plays in coverage and show off his playmaking ability.

Minnesota Vikings:

Kirk Cousins (QB): While Cousins is expected to play limited snaps, his presence on the field will give the Vikings a chance to showcase their offensive unit. Watching Cousins’ timing with his receivers and the development of his connection with star wide receiver Justin Jefferson will be key in this preseason game.
Jalen Nailor (WR): Nailor has been making waves in training camp and has a chance to become a key part of the Vikings’ receiving corps. His performance in the preseason is crucial for his chances to secure a spot on the team.
Brian Asamoah (LB): The linebacker has been praised for his speed and instincts, and he could be a key piece of the Vikings’ defense moving forward. Keep an eye on Asamoah’s ability to cover ground and make plays on defense, as he looks to solidify his role.
Ty Chandler (RB): With the Vikings’ backfield crowded, Chandler has an opportunity to prove he deserves a roster spot. His performance in the preseason, especially with limited touches, will help determine his future in the team’s offense.

J.J. McCarthy Not Playing

One notable absence from the game will be J.J. McCarthy, the young quarterback who’s expected to be a key player for the Minnesota Vikings in the future. However, McCarthy will not be participating in this preseason matchup, as he’s likely being held out due to injury or to give other quarterbacks a chance to get valuable playing time. While McCarthy’s absence may be disappointing for fans hoping to get an early look at the promising rookie, it’s a chance for the Vikings to focus on their other quarterbacks and roster decisions.

What to Expect in This Preseason Game

Preseason games are often about getting the kinks out and seeing how players perform under game-like conditions. As such, we can expect to see a lot of roster battles unfold during this contest. While the final score may not be the primary focus, the performances of players hoping to make the final roster will be closely watched.

Key Areas to Watch:

Quarterback Play: With the Patriots and Vikings both having key quarterback battles to monitor, the performance of Mac Jones and Bailey Zappe for the Patriots, as well as Kirk Cousins and the backups for the Vikings, will be one of the focal points. How these quarterbacks manage the offense and avoid turnovers will go a long way toward building confidence heading into the regular season.
Special Teams: Preseason games are also a time to evaluate special teams play, and both teams will be looking to solidify their units. Whether it’s kick coverage, returning kicks, or field goal attempts, this game will give coaches a chance to see how their special teams players respond to game situations.
Rookie Standouts: For both the Patriots and Vikings, the performances of rookies will be key in determining roster spots. Look for younger players to get a good amount of playing time as they try to earn their place on the final roster.

Conclusion

While the outcome of this preseason matchup between the New England Patriots and the Minnesota Vikings may not carry much weight, it’s still an important game for both teams as they assess their rosters and prepare for the upcoming regular season. With young players fighting for spots, and key veterans working to build chemistry, this game is sure to provide plenty of storylines. Keep an eye on the quarterbacks, the rookies, and the special teams play as the Patriots and Vikings work to get ready for the challenges of the 2023 NFL season.