Monday night is J.J. McCarthy’s first time officially suiting up as the Minnesota Vikings’ quarterback. It’s also Caleb Williams’ first official action operating under Ben Johnson with the Chicago Bears.
Only one side looked genuinely promising to start Week 1’s prime-time finale, however, as Williams opened 10 for 10 through the air, while also scoring on a splashy scramble, as McCarthy struggled to find a rhythm in front of the Bears’ live pass rush. Missing suspended wide receiver Jordan Addison and injured left tackle Christian Darrisaw, the Vikings mustered two field goals in McCarthy’s opening half of NFL work, including a 59-yarder from Will Reichard just before halftime.
Johnson, meanwhile, had the Bears humming out of the gate thanks to a confident Williams, who took the ball into the end zone himself on a 9-yard sprint, then led a field goal drive of his own before halftime.
Which NFC North foe will come out on top under the Monday night lights? Stay tuned for live updates and analysis.
Where to watch Bears vs. Vikings live
Date: Monday, Sept. 8 | Time: 8:15 p.m. ET
Location: Soldier Field (Chicago)
TV: ESPN/ABC | Stream: Fubo (try for free)
Follow: CBS Sports App
Odds: Vikings -1.5 OU 43.5 (via DraftKings Sportsbook)
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