J.J. McCarthy led the Minnesota Vikings to a 34-26 victory over the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday, throwing for 250 yards and two touchdowns while adding a rushing score, putting Dallas on the brink of playoff elimination. The second-year quarterback completed 15 of 24 passes as the Vikings rallied at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
Despite outgaining Minnesota 423-327 in total yards and holding a time-of-possession advantage, the Cowboys struggled in the red zone and missed two field goals. Dallas took an early lead after McCarthy’s first pass was intercepted by Quinnen Williams, setting up a 1-yard touchdown run by Javonte Williams. Minnesota quickly tied the game when McCarthy connected with Jalen Nailor for a 20-yard touchdown. After a back-and-forth first half, the score was tied 17-17 at halftime. In the second half, kicker Brandon Aubrey gave Dallas a brief lead, but Minnesota responded with a scoring drive capped by a 1-yard run from C.J. Ham. McCarthy’s 4-yard touchdown pass to Nailor in the fourth quarter put the Vikings ahead 31-23, and they held on as Dallas failed to recover an onside kick late in the game.
Dak Prescott threw for 294 yards, completing 23 of 38 passes, with CeeDee Lamb hauling in six catches for 111 yards. Running back Javonte Williams added 91 yards and a touchdown, while Malik Hooker contributed 37 yards and a score. Minnesota received contributions from T.J. Hockenson and Jordan Addison, who each totaled 66 receiving yards, and running back Jones added 65 yards from scrimmage. The loss drops the Cowboys to 6-7-1, leaving them reliant on other results to remain in playoff contention, while the Vikings improve to 6-8 and will face the New York Giants next Sunday.
Griddying for a touchdown.
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) December 15, 2025
You.
Love.
To.
See.
It.@jjmccarthy09
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WHAT A STRIKE @jjmccarthy09 🎯
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) December 15, 2025
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