The Minnesota Vikings will feature backup quarterback Carson Wentz in their matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals on March 15, 2024, following an injury to starter J.J. McCarthy. Wentz, a former fan of the Vikings during his childhood in Bismarck, North Dakota, is set to make his debut for the team he once cheered for from the stands. This moment is particularly significant for Wentz, who expressed excitement about returning to his roots. “Believe it or not, my family was already planning to come,” he said. “Now, there’s even more coming. Everybody’s pretty excited.”
The Vikings head into this game with a record of 1-1, while the Bengals hold a strong 2-0 record. Wentz steps in after McCarthy was diagnosed with a high ankle sprain, which has sidelined him for the foreseeable future. In Week 1, McCarthy led the Vikings to a 27-24 victory over the Chicago Bears, but the team struggled in a 22-6 loss against the Atlanta Falcons in Week 2.
Wentz is no stranger to the pressures of starting in the NFL, having played for five different teams throughout his career. He will benefit from the presence of star wide receiver Justin Jefferson, who has recorded seven catches for 125 yards and a touchdown this season. The Vikings will also rely on backup running back Jordan Mason as starting running back Aaron Jones is out due to a hamstring injury.
In a parallel situation, the Bengals will also be relying on their backup quarterback, Jake Browning, after starting quarterback Joe Burrow underwent surgery for turf toe. Browning has previously started seven games and brings valuable experience to the field. “I think just the experience… I feel like I made some improvements that I needed to. I’m excited for the opportunity to play,” Browning stated.
Cincinnati has opened the season with narrow victories, defeating the Cleveland Browns 17-16 and the Jacksonville Jaguars 31-27. In addition to Burrow’s absence, the Bengals will be without first-round pick Shemar Stewart, who is sidelined with an ankle injury, and cornerback Cam Taylor-Britt is doubtful due to a hamstring issue.
As both teams prepare to face off, injuries have created opportunities for backups to step into the spotlight. Wentz’s experience and Browning’s newfound confidence will be critical as they each aim to lead their teams to victory in this pivotal early-season matchup. The game will take place in Minneapolis, where fans are expected to rally behind their teams amid an atmosphere charged with anticipation.
