Two of the NFL’s most disappointing teams will clash on Sunday as the Washington Commanders travel to face the Minnesota Vikings in Minnesota, both hoping to snap long losing streaks. The Commanders have lost seven games in a row, equaling the longest current losing streak in the league, while the Vikings have dropped four in a row and are out of the NFC North title race.
Marcus Mariota is expected to take the helm for Washington again, with Jayden Daniels still recovering from his elbow dislocation during a late Week 9 loss to the Seattle Seahawks. Although Daniels has resumed practicing, he hasn’t yet been cleared for contact. He was the NFL’s Offensive Rookie of the Year but has only started six games this season, witnessing Washington’s offense dwindling from one of the best in 2024 to the mediocre tier in 2025.
On the other hand, J.J. McCarthy, who was chosen just a few picks after Daniels in the 2024 NFL Draft, has faced numerous struggles this season. After missing his full rookie year with a knee injury, McCarthy has appeared in just six games this year, recording a completion percentage of only 54%, with six touchdowns and ten interceptions, while also having the league’s worst rate of negative plays.
Where to watch Vikings vs. Commanders live
- Date: Sunday, Dec. 7 | Time: 1 p.m. ET
- Where: U.S. Bank Stadium – Minneapolis, Minnesota
- TV: Fox | Stream: Fubo
- Follow: CBS Sports App
- Odds: Vikings -2.5, O/U 41.5 (via DraftKings)
Key Points for the Vikings vs. Commanders
- Can J.J. McCarthy change his fortunes? McCarthy has recorded a dismal performance throughout the season, but he returns at an opportune moment against a Commanders defense that is allowing an average of 8.2 net yards per pass attempt.
- A revitalizing defense for Minnesota? The Vikings’ defense, though having a rough start to the season, is improving under the guidance of defensive coordinator Brian Flores, currently allowing just 4.4 yards per play since Week 9.
- Star receivers under pressure. Justin Jefferson has struggled to exceed 75 yards in recent games, and Terry McLaurin looks to bounce back after a successful return from injury.
The stakes are high for McCarthy, who must deliver some promising plays against Washington’s faltering defense to build momentum for the next season. The outlook remains grim; however, Minnesota’s defense is expected to come together for this matchup.
