Vikings QB Competition: J.J. McCarthy and Kyler Murray each reveal one key element that could decide the starter
We have talked about multiple elements of the Minnesota Vikings’ starting quarterback job, but one thing could be crucial.
The Minnesota Vikings’ quarterback competition is quite the interesting one.
No matter if you are pro J.J. McCarthy or Kyler Murray, there is something positive to praise your guy, and a way to disparage the other. It’s been a contentious competition thus far among the fanbase.
So far, it does feel like Murray is clearly in the lead. His talent being on display in front of the beat for the first time has led many to believe this was a one-sided competition. It may end up being one
Kyler Murray vs. J.J. McCarthy Competition
- The Vikings made it clear it was a genuine quarterback competition between the two after they signed Murray in March.
- During practices available to the media, members of the beat has consistently mentioned the aspect of Murray being much more talented.
- Throughout the summer, both quarterbacks have been given relatively equal reps.
J.J. McCarthy has one key advantage over Kyler Murray
One of the interesting things about the competition is the biggest difference between the two: experience in the system. McCarthy has it and Murray doesn’t, with the former becoming more instinctual.
“[I] think things being instinctual when you hear it, you know, being able to pop into your mind very clear and very fast, and that helps a lot with just playing instinctual out there, and you know, making the right plays when the balls snap.”
Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy
Having three years in a system is important. Historically speaking, year three is when the biggest jump is taken, especially in a West Coast-style system, which Kevin O’Connell’s offense is a variant of. Murray is at a disadvantage here, especially with him spending the majority of his career in the Air Raid.
“I think the toughest part is having to split reps. It’s me already being behind, not getting the amount of reps that you know you would typically want to, gotta get learning an offense. That’s probably the toughest part. Again, going back to the past, being in control of everything, understanding what we were already doing, because I was comfortable within the system. Now, [I] come to new system, learning on the fly, trying to play fast, efficient, and then let it loose while learning. That’s the toughest part.”
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kyler Murray
Will this end up coming into play in deciding who wins? That remains to be seen, but it’s certainly an advantage for McCarthy as we continue with mandatory minicamp.