There are some, but not many, lingering questions about Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell. For one, can the reigning NFL Coach of the Year translate repeated regular-season success into his first career playoff victory?

During a recent chat with Kevin Seifert of ESPN, O'Connell touched upon how his experiences with McCarthy throughout the 2024 campaign helped Minnesota determine that the 22-year-old will be ready to serve as Sam Darnold's full-time replacement this September.

J.J. McCarthy entered the NFL Draft after a historic 15-0 season with the Michigan Wolverines, throwing 2,991 yards for 240 catches and 22 touchdowns. The fairytale continued as he was picked as the No.