Vikings-Commanders preview: J.J. McCarthy returns to lead a reeling offense

McCarthy returns as Vikings try to snap losing streaks: Since Kevin O’Connell presented J.J. McCarthy with a game ball in Detroit on Nov. 2, the Vikings (4-8) have lost four straight and have scored a combined six points in their last two. They’ve lost three in a row at U.S. Bank Stadium, where they’ll end the season with back-to-back games against the Lions and Packers. Their matchup with the Commanders (3-9), in other words, figures to be the last time they’re favored at home this season, and it’s a key opportunity for them to win in front of fans who’ve grown weary of losses at home. “It’s not a matter of staying the course, it’s a matter of improvement and altering the course of where we’re at, regardless of what that means for our season, into the future,” O’Connell said. “It’s about trying to go 1-0 this week. And if you’ve ever questioned why a cliché like that is used, we’re in a moment where it matters more so now than ever.”

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Jefferson could be primed for rebound against Commanders’ secondary: Justin Jefferson had two catches for a career-low 4 yards against the Seahawks, and didn’t talk to reporters after the game. On Thursday, he admitted he was highly frustrated after the game, and said this season has been one of his most difficult in the NFL (though he added he remained patient with the Vikings as McCarthy develops). Sunday could present him with a get-right game against a Commanders secondary that’s been one of the most porous in the NFL. According to Sports Info Solutions, Washington is allowing 7.8 yards per coverage snap this season, which is the highest figure in the league by 0.7 yards.

Miller has five sacks in part-time role: Washington signed likely Hall of Famer Von Miller to a one-year contract in the offseason, trying to add a pass rusher to a defense that’s struggled to get to the quarterback. The 36-year-old has played 288 snaps, working mostly in passing situations, but has five sacks this season. He’ll rush primarily from the left side of the Commanders’ line, so right tackle Brian O’Neill will see plenty of him.

Daniels could return from elbow injury: The Commanders have played three games without second-year quarterback Jayden Daniels, who dislocated his left elbow on Nov. 2 against Seattle. Daniels was a full participant in practice on Thursday and could be in line to return against the Vikings. He’s missed six games this year, and his injuries could affect how willing he is to make plays outside the pocket. But Daniels is one of the most dangerous athletes at the position, and even if he restricts his running to some degree, he could still change the game on a few plays with his mobility.

Commanders have deep receiving corps: Washington reached the NFC title game with Daniels throwing to Terry McLaurin and Zach Ertz last season, and McLaurin’s return from a quadriceps injury gives the Commanders a group of receivers that could test the Vikings’ secondary. Washington added Deebo Samuel in the offseason, and while the veteran doesn’t get the ball as much on run plays as he did in San Francisco, he’s still a formidable option on short throws that allow him to run after the catch.

Even if their playoff chances are fading into the distance, the Vikings need a win for several reasons: They want to deliver a better showing at home and they need to see some measurable progress from McCarthy. The Commanders, with a meager secondary and middling pass rush, represent perhaps the most forgiving home opponent the Vikings will have the rest of this season. It’s a chance for them to get McCarthy in a rhythm while playing in some clean pockets, and though their defense will have to contain Daniels, they could have an easier time pressuring him while playing with a lead. With a veteran defense making a stand and a concerted effort to get McCarthy playing more comfortably, the Vikings will be productive enough to win at home and get to 5-8 before their final two road trips of the season against the Cowboys and the Giants. Vikings 24, Commanders 17