Vikings’ offensive struggles persist under head coach Kevin O'Connell

Minnesota fell to Buffalo 23-6 on Monday Night Football, managing just 178 total yards and nine first downs while possessing the ball for 17:28, the franchise’s lowest time-of-possession mark. The Vikings’ offense, which has been unable to move the ball effectively against the league’s 30th-ranked pass defense, was led by Carson Wentz, who started in place of the injured Kyler Murray. Wentz completed eight of 25 passes for 81 yards and threw two interceptions.

The loss left Minnesota at 6-2 on the season, but the team’s offensive production remains a concern. Since Sam Darnold’s departure after the 2024 campaign, O'Connell has overseen 25 games with multiple starting quarterbacks: J.J. McCarthy (10 starts), Wentz (five starts) and Max Brosmer (two starts). Across those games, the Vikings have exceeded 300 total yards only twice, have never thrown for more than 213 yards in a single contest, and have recorded fewer than 150 passing yards in four games. The squad has totaled 11 offensive touchdowns, tying the league-worst mark held by the Chargers.

Critics argue that O'Connell, once praised for his offensive scheming, has not been able to adapt to the varied skill sets of his quarterbacks, failing to capitalize on Murray’s mobility or Wentz’s arm strength. The franchise now faces a decision on whether to retain O'Connell or explore alternatives to improve its offensive output.