Minnesota Set for an Unusual Showdown Against Cincinnati with Backup QBs
This Sunday, the city of Minneapolis will witness a unique matchup as the Minnesota Vikings (1-1) host the Cincinnati Bengals (2-0) at U.S. Bank Stadium at noon (CT). Both teams will have to rely on their backup quarterbacks after their starters were sidelined due to injuries.
The Vikings will have Carson Wentz stepping in for J.J. McCarthy, who suffered a high-ankle sprain during a loss to the Atlanta Falcons. On the other side, the Bengals’ Jake Browning will replace Joe Burrow, who is out for at least three months following surgery for a turf toe injury he sustained in the first half against Jacksonville.
This situation is not common, especially so early in the season. Historically, it’s been nearly 27 years since two quarterbacks faced off in Week 3 after not starting any of the first two weeks. In 1998, the Vikings’ Randall Cunningham faced the Lions after Brad Johnson broke his leg, marking a significant turning point in the Vikings’ season.
Wentz, who will be starting for his sixth franchise, including the Eagles and Colts in prior years, is looking to make league history. Meanwhile, Browning, familiar with the Vikings as an undrafted free agent in 2019, is gearing up for his eighth career start after leading the Bengals to a win earlier last season against Minnesota.
Experts are split on predictions for the game. Some favor the Vikings, with Pete Prisco of CBS Sports picking Minnesota 27-17, asserting that Wentz will outperform Browning at home. Others lean toward the Bengals, with a close score suggesting it will be a competitive match. The turnover battle may play a crucial role in the outcome, particularly with the talent on both teams.
As game day approaches, both teams’ fan bases are eagerly awaiting what is sure to be a memorable encounter between two backup quarterbacks under the bright lights of U.S. Bank Stadium. With Wentz and Browning aiming to prove themselves, who will rise to the occasion this Sunday? Only time will tell.
