MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — J.J. McCarthy burst into Minnesota's locker room in Detroit last week in the afterglow of a critical victory for the Vikings, meeting his boisterously welcoming teammates with an enthusiasm and intensity that took the party for the visitors to an even higher level.

As coach Kevin O'Connell wrapped up his postgame speech , saving the last game ball for his young quarterback, McCarthy's expression turned menacing through the sweat-smudged thick black paint on his cheeks. After he accepted his award with a hug from the coach, McCarthy called the players in for one more huddle to implore them to pivot their focus forward.

“I just know to give him the football, deliver the message that I’d like to deliver, and then get the hell out of the way for my own personal safe

See Full Page