ESPN.com · Sep 9, 2025
J.J. McCarthy, Vikings spoil Ben Johnson's Bears debut
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CHICAGO -- Hello J.J. McCarthy. And welcome back to the Minnesota Vikings defense.
The team's new era at quarterback began with a rousing comeback victory over its NFC North rival in a 27-24 win over the Chicago Bears.
And for as much attention as McCarthy's debut will generate -- it was the Vikings' defense that kept it in the game while the offense struggled.
Bears quarterback Caleb Williams completed his first 10 passes as Chicago took a 10-3 lead in the second quarter, but the Bears offense didn't score again until 2:02 remained in the fourth quarter.