MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The Minnesota Vikings badly needed to stop turning the ball over, a season-long problem. They had to figure out a way to revive their passing attack from the stunning depths to which it had sunk during their four-game losing streak. They wanted to play well at home for their fans for once, too.

Most of all, they were seeking the good vibes that had been eluding their quarterback-in-training, J.J. McCarthy.

Everything on their long wish list was checked off in a chicken-soup-for-the-soul type of victory over Washington on Sunday, a 31-0 decision that was satisfying in every way except for the sobering reality that it came too late to salvage their bid for the playoffs with a 5-8 record.

“It’s definitely reassuring,” said McCarthy, after his first turnover-free game a

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