The Minnesota Vikings will attempt to open their season with their third consecutive victory as they travel to Tampa Bay to take on the troubled Buccaneers.
The game will mark the return of Vikings quarterback Kyler Murray to the lineup. Murray suffered a concussion in the opening quarter of the first game of the season against the Green Bay Packers. He was replaced in that game by Carson Wentz. The veteran quarterback led Minnesota to a comeback victory in that game and to an upset triumph against the Chicago Bears.
Murray was removed from concussion protocol early this week. Head coach Kevin O'Connell said he would start against the Bucs. The Vikings are expected to rely on Murray's athleticism to trigger their offense this season. If Murray can stay healthy, he should be able to give the Vikings a dangerous attack.
Murray is looking forward to facing the Bucs and QB Baker Mayfield. The two quarterbacks played at Oklahoma at the same time and Murray said he has great admiration for Mayfield as a competitor and as a friend.
“That’s my guy,” Murray said. “I got to see him every day in college and I respect the hell out of Baker, and what he’s been through, and what type of player and person he is.”
Mayfield expressed similar feelings for Murray. The two quarterbacks said they remain friends after playing together with the Sooners. Mayfield was selected by the Cleveland Browns in 2018, while Murray was selected by the Cardinals a year later.