Battle of the backups: Wentz vs Browning in Week 3

Sunday’s game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Minnesota Vikings won’t feature the quarterbacks fans expected. Instead of Joe Burrow vs JJ McCarthy, it’s now shaping up as Jake Browning vs Carson Wentz - a backup QB showdown full of intrigue.

Jake Browning vs Carson Wentz: The unexpected QB battle in Week 3

Burrow went down in Week 2 with a toe injury and is sidelined indefinitely, forcing Browning back into the spotlight. The 28-year-old came through in relief against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday, overcoming three interceptions to lead a dramatic game-winning drive capped by his 1-yard sneak with 18 seconds left. For Cincinnati, Browning’s resilience offers hope as the Bengals chase their first 3-0 start since 2018.

Minnesota’s change comes after rookie JJ McCarthy suffered an ankle injury that will keep him out two to four weeks. Enter Carson Wentz, the former No. 2 overall pick whose career has been marked by flashes of brilliance and tough setbacks. Now, he gets another shot to prove he can steady an offense desperate for consistency.

Both teams face major stakes. The Bengals are trying to keep their Super Bowl aspirations alive without Burrow, while the Vikings need Wentz to hold things together in a competitive NFC North until McCarthy returns.

It may not be the headline quarterback duel fans envisioned, but Browning v. Wentz is suddenly one of Week 3’s most fascinating matchups - a battle of backups with significant implications.

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