Vikings vs. Ravens Week 10 Preview: J.J. McCarthy's Poise vs. Lamar Jackson's Dynamism (2026)

Vikings vs. Ravens: Week 10 Game Preview

November 7, 2025

EAGAN, Minn. — The Vikings are on a roll, and it's all thanks to their newfound confidence and leadership. With J.J. McCarthy at the helm, the team is ready to take on the Ravens at noon (CT) on Sunday.

Vikings Uniform

Minnesota will wear their standard home uniform: purple jerseys and white pants.

3 Vikings Storylines

1. Next Steps for J.J. McCarthy

J.J. McCarthy has proven himself a true hero, silencing crowds and pulling off dramatic comebacks. Now, he aims to reset his U.S. Bank Stadium record and play with poise for a full 60 minutes.

Offensive Coordinator Wes Phillips praises McCarthy's competitiveness and intelligence, noting that he's a sponge for knowledge and always asking the right questions. Despite not completing more than 14 passes in a game yet, McCarthy is the first player in league history with 2+ pass TDs and 1+ rush TD in two of his first three starts.

2. Van Ginkel's Impact

Van Ginkel, a 2024 Second-Team All-Pro, made his first full appearance since Week 1, helping the Vikings record a season-high five sacks and 11 quarterback hits. He played 60% of the snaps and made an impact that can't be measured by the box score. Van Ginkel is a versatile player who can excel as a pass-rusher, disrupt timing, and calm the defense with his level-headedness.

Keeping Pace in the Division Race

The Vikings are in a unique position as one of four teams in the NFC North with a .500 record. They're in the running to be the alpha, but a loss could greatly damage their playoff odds. The team is ascending after early-season injuries and adversity.

The Vikings' schedule is challenging, with no gimme-games left. Even the 2-7 Giants present problems, and Baltimore is a tough opponent.

2 Things About the Ravens

1. Perennial MVP Candidate

The Vikings' defense must contain Lamar Jackson, a dynamic player who has improved year after year. He's an excellent passer and a threat to run, making him a perennial MVP candidate.

2. Kyle Hamilton and Co.

The Ravens have traded for Alohi Gilman to give Kyle Hamilton more freedom to play closer to the line of scrimmage. Hamilton is an elite defender, and the Ravens have a strong secondary group, including Marlon Humphrey and Nate Wiggins.

Key Matchup: All 11 Vikings Hats vs. Derrick Henry

Derrick Henry is a force to be reckoned with, and the Vikings' top priority is shutting him down. Henry has dominated defenses in the past three games, averaging 104 yards and 4.9 per rush.

Top Quotes of Week 10

Special Teams Coordinator Matt Daniels on the Vikings captains' pre-game meeting in Detroit:

'I loved that. It was a reflection of how we played on Sunday, and it showed our connection as a team.'

Quarterback J.J. McCarthy on channeling anger into game-day intensity:

'It's a unique power that comes from built-up anger, which I harness instead of letting it self-destruct.'

Vikings vs. Ravens Week 10 Preview: J.J. McCarthy's Poise vs. Lamar Jackson's Dynamism (2026)

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