New England got a pair of first-half touchdowns and, to be honest, there wasn’t really a whole lot else to get excited until the very last play for Vikings fans as the Patriots got themselves a 20-12...

The Patriots spent the entire week in Minnesota, participating in two joint practices before competing on Saturday.

Since his six-catch, 50-yard showing in the preseason opener, Chism has continued to build his case for a spot on the 53-man roster.

The Vikings’ defensive front continued to dominate the Patriots’ offensive line, adding at least a few more sacks against the Patriots’ first-team offense.

"To go out there and execute the way he did, it felt decisive," O'Connell said Thursday of McCarthy's performance in joint practices with the Patriots.

Coach Mike Vrabel likely wants to get them more reps because their ability to protect Maye in the pocket is paramount for the team's success.

After being forced to miss his entire rookie year due to a knee injury, McCarthy is set to be the team's starter this season. Sam Darnold left town in free agency and the Vikings opted to pass on veteran options to move forward with the former Michigan standout.

Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell announced after Thursday's joint practice with the Patriots that McCarthy is sitting out this weekend and that backup QB Sam Howell will start.