Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell faces scrutiny as offense sputters
The gist
Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell's offense topped 20 points once this season, and Minnesota lost 19-15 to Detroit.
His handling of quarterback Kyler Murray is drawing questions despite a 6-1 record.
How it unfolded
- Aug 19, 2026O'Connell praised J.J. McCarthy and said Carson did some good things, adding he wished he had gotten Max more time in the next two preseason games; the race for the backup quarterback job was described as far from over.
- Nov 1, 2026The Vikings lost 19-15 to the Lions at Ford Field in Detroit; Minnesota was flagged for five penalties, bringing its season total to 39.
- Nov 2, 2026O'Connell said Kyler Murray was still experiencing hamstring soreness, Christian Darrisaw had shoulder soreness and Theo Jackson left the Week 8 game with a quad injury; he said it was still early enough to wait on Murray and confirmed he remains committed to Murray as starter if physically ready.
Key terms
- snaps
- The backward passing of the ball from center to start a play in gridiron football.
- play-action
- A football play that fakes a running play to deceive the defense before throwing a pass.
Source: Wikipedia