Rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy didn’t just leave Ford Field with a statement win — he left with a little playful payback for Dan Campbell and the Detroit Lions. After leading the Minnesota Vikings to a stunning upset over the division rival Lions, McCarthy couldn’t resist a lighthearted jab at the fiery Detroit head coach.
In his postgame comments, McCarthy reportedly joked about “finally getting one back” on Campbell, who had spoken highly of the young QB’s Michigan roots earlier in the season — but also warned that he’d “make him earn everything” once they met on an NFL field. Well, McCarthy did just that.
The Vikings’ rookie looked calm, confident, and composed as he picked apart Detroit’s defense, helping Minnesota end their losing streak and tighten the NFC North race. His performance was especially impressive considering the Lions’ reputation for physical defense and home-field dominance.
For Campbell and the Lions, the loss was another wake-up call in what’s become a rollercoaster of a season. For McCarthy, it was a statement — and a reminder that the NFC North just got a little more interesting.
And that lighthearted troll? Just the kind of confident energy you’d expect from a Michigan man who finally got to take one from Detroit on the biggest stage.
Vikings’ Rookie QB Gets Last Laugh on Dan Campbell After Surprising Lions Loss
