Murray returns from concussion protocol to face the Buccaneers
Murray returns from concussion protocol to face the Buccaneers
The Minnesota Vikings visit the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, September 27, 2026 at 4:05 p.m. ET at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. Minnesota arrives undefeated with a 2-0 record after defeating Chicago 9-3, while Tampa Bay drags a 0-2 start after falling to Cleveland.
The central news of the week is the return of J.J. McCarthy… in this case, of Murray, who regains the starting position after overcoming the concussion protocol. Carson Wentz had led the offense during the first two weeks, in which Minnesota accumulated 48 points, a plus-3 margin in the ball and 113 rushing yards per game. Murray had already shown his contribution as a runner with 18 yards in his season debut, interrupted by the injury.
The defensive lines set the pace of the matchup: Minnesota allows just 12.5 points per game and leads the league with 8 sacks, in addition to 25 quarterback hits, while Tampa Bay has allowed 28 points per game with only 3 sacks and 1 interception in two weeks. On offense, the Buccaneers rely on Irving’s rushing, who has 17 carries for 89 yards and 4 receptions, and the team’s average of 113 rushing yards and 184.5 passing yards, figures that contrast with a minus-4 turnover margin. Justin Jefferson, despite a limited game in the victory over Chicago due to rain and wind conditions, has 3 touchdown passes so far this season for Minnesota.
The Vikings are 1.5-point favorites according to betting houses. The clash between the league’s most aggressive defense and a Tampa Bay offense seeking its first win will determine whether Minnesota extends its perfect start or if Mayfield and the Buccaneers achieve their first victory of the campaign.