The Minnesota Vikings shocked much of the NFL world in Week 9 when they went on the road and defeated the NFC North-leading Detroit Lions. This game marked the return of second-year quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who was playing his first game back following a six-week injury absence.
Following the contest, McCarthy participated in a series of interviews. One of the most memorable and emotionally charged interviews came with legendary quarterback and FOX Sports broadcaster Tom Brady. McCarthy earned this interview after Brady named him the LFG “Let’s [Expletive] Go” Player of the Game—a distinction Brady hands out after every contest he calls.
“It was all about just focusing on the little things, focusing on the things I can control,” McCarthy told Brady when discussing how he found his rhythm after such a long time off. “All those little things just prevent all the anxiety and nerves because I get to go out there and focus on what I can control. And, you know, see what happens at the end of this thing.”
Brady responded, “And it turned out our way. You guys are back to .500, resets the whole division. Congratulations, enjoy the flight home.”
“Thank you so much, Tom. Appreciate it,” McCarthy replied to his fellow Michigan Wolverines QB. “Let’s [expletive] go!”
**Read More:** [Vikings Receive Major Aaron Jones Injury Update After Beating Lions]
McCarthy finished the game with a stat line of 143 passing yards, two touchdowns, and one interception on 14 of 25 passing attempts. He also scored a rushing touchdown and completed a critical third-down pass to wide receiver Jalen Nailor late in the game to help seal the victory.
“Obviously a lot of excitement… and I’m just so proud of the guys,” McCarthy said to Tom Rinaldi of FOX Sports during a sideline interview. “We fought, we had a different energy this week, a different level of focus. But there’s a lot more we can clean up.”
“We haven’t reached our potential,” McCarthy continued. “We haven’t even gotten close yet.”
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