J.J. McCarthy's breakout performance last week against the Commanders included a lot of encouraging signs of progress. Albeit against a very poor defense, the 22-year-old quarterback was decisive and accurate while throwing three touchdown passes and avoiding any turnovers.

Against the Commanders, the Vikings offense featured more shotgun, fewer play-action dropbacks and quicker first-read throws.

The Cowboys are set for a prime-time home matchup Sunday night against the Minnesota Vikings with Dallas still clinching to playoff hopes.

The 31-0 win over the Commanders will only do so much for the curriculum vitae of the 5-8 Vikings, but it provided a dose of relief for the team and its weary fanbase.

Head coach Kevin O’Connell fought that narrative a little on Wednesday, saying, “If it was that simple, I would probably get a lot more rest.”

When KFAN’s Paul Allen blasted the "Nine" act, O’Connell didn’t disagree, stressing that McCarthy just needs to be authentic.

The Vikings get the breakthrough from their quarterback they’ve been waiting for all season, as J.J. McCarthy looked poised, threw accurately and read the defense quickly.