McCarthy's further away from finished than anyone wanted to admit, but this Vikings team can't afford to wait.

Who doesn’t love the look of an apparent maniac vociferously bobbing his head during his coach’s postgame locker room speech after a big win? There’s a lot to like about J.J.

Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy divulged this week that an alter ego has been helping him succeed during his first season as a starting NFL QB.

The Vikings assembled six veteran skill players who can all make life easier for McCarthy in the pass game. Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison and Jalen Nailor all made what NFL Next Gen Stats calls a "tight window" reception against the Lions, meaning the nearest defender was less than a yard away.

McCarthy's has intense gameday demeanor has been celebrated in Vikings postgame locker room videos and mocked on social media

Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy delivers a dart under duress to wide receiver Justin Jefferson for first down conversion.

McCarthy flashed a hard edge. A mean mug, if you will. He explained his facial expression to reporters on Wednesday. Via Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com, McCarthy says it’s his alter ego. He refers to it as “Nine,” after the number on his jersey.

Former Minnesota Vikings coach compares J.J. McCarthy to a Chicago Bears legend, highlighting strengths and potential.