Sept. 9 (UPI) -- J.J. McCarthy overcame a slow start and accounted for three fourth-quarter touchdowns, leading the Minnesota Vikings to an epic rally past the Chicago Bears.
With the outburst Monday in Chicago, McCarthy became the first quarterback in history to account for three touchdowns in the fourth quarter of an NFL debut.
McCarthy, who joined the Vikings in 2023, but missed all of last season because of a knee injury, completed 13 of 20 attempts for 143 yards, two scores and an interception in his first regular-season action. He also ran for 25 yards, including a 14-yard rushing score, while helping the Vikings overcome an 11-point fourth-quarter deficit.
"I feel like we did a great job," McCarthy told reporters. "This team showed a lot of poise and responded very well."
The Bears edged the Vikings 317 to 254 in total yards and 20-14 in first downs in the loss. McCarthy completed just 7 of 12 passes for 42 yards and an interception through the first three quarters. He went on to complete 6 of 8 passes for 101 yards, in addition to his two passing scores and rushing touchdown, in the fourth quarter.
