Story perspectives

Backup Quarterbacks Clash: Bengals Face Vikings in Week 3

9/20/2025

Summary

Story summary

The Cincinnati Bengals (2-0) will play the Minnesota Vikings (1-1) in Week 3 at U.S. Bank Stadium, kicking off at 1 p.m. ET.
Bengals' quarterback Joe Burrow is out for three months due to toe surgery, with Jake Browning stepping in.
The Vikings will start Carson Wentz after rookie J.J. McCarthy's ankle injury.
Both teams face challenges with backup quarterbacks, impacting offensive performance.
Minnesota is favored by 3 points, with an over/under of 41.5 total points.

History

Historical Context

The NFL faced a significant shift in 1982 when a players' strike led to a shortened season, impacting team dynamics and quarterback roles. Backup Don Strock of the Miami Dolphins successfully guided his team to the playoffs. Today, the Bengals and Vikings are similarly challenged, with injuries sidelining starters Joe Burrow and J.J. McCarthy, forcing backups Jake Browning and Carson Wentz into critical positions.

1 of 2

Story summary

The Cincinnati Bengals (2-0) will play the Minnesota Vikings (1-1) in Week 3 at U.S. Bank Stadium, kicking off at 1 p.m. ET.
Bengals' quarterback Joe Burrow is out for three months due to toe surgery, with Jake Browning stepping in.
The Vikings will start Carson Wentz after rookie J.J. McCarthy's ankle injury.
Both teams face challenges with backup quarterbacks, impacting offensive performance.
Minnesota is favored by 3 points, with an over/under of 41.5 total points.

1 / 2