The Minnesota Vikings have seen what they needed to see thus far from second-year quarterback J.J. McCarthy.

On Thursday, Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell confirmed McCarthy won't play in their second preseason game against the New England Patriots Saturday at 1 p.m. ET. Backup QB Sam Howell is set to start instead.

Consider the update a vote of confidence from O'Connell and company. The team likely believes that the Michigan product is ready for the regular season and doesn't require additional preseason reps.

McCarthy presumably gained even more trust from Minnesota after dominating Thursday's joint practice against New England. Multiple clips of him throwing touchdown passes surfaced on social media, including a long one to running back Aaron Jones.

The signal-caller demonst

See Full Page