Kyler Murray is set to return to the lineup for the Vikings on Sunday, and his first start back comes in a matchup that already feels tight on paper against the Buccaneers.
Murray’s Vikings debut was interrupted on the third drive of the game by a concussion, but Minnesota managed to keep winning without him. During his absence, the Vikings went 2-0 with Carson Wentz at quarterback, including a last-week performance that limited Chicago to three points and 163 passing yards.
What Murray's return means
Getting Murray back gives the Vikings a different offensive look as they try to build on their unbeaten start. It also changes the way this game is framed, because Minnesota is no longer simply trying to survive without its quarterback. Now it can lean into the full version of its offense and see how that holds up against a Buccaneers team still looking for its first win.
The matchup has been described as close enough that the spread is basically a coin flip, which makes Murray’s availability even more important. The Buccaneers enter at 0-2 and have dealt with early offensive and defensive issues, so this is the kind of game that could turn quickly if Minnesota gets efficient play at quarterback.
Why the game is a close call
Part of the intrigue is that the Vikings have looked sturdy even without Murray, while the Buccaneers have not yet found consistent footing. Minnesota’s defense, led by Brian Flores, has also leaned on an unusually aggressive blitz rate compared with other teams, giving the Vikings a clear identity early in the season.
That combination makes Sunday feel less like a one-sided test and more like a game that could hinge on a few key drives. If Murray settles in quickly, the Vikings can ask more of their offense. If the Buccaneers respond well, Baker Mayfield and the Buccaneers can keep a game alive that already looks competitive.
For now, the biggest takeaway is simple: Kyler Murray is back, and the Vikings will have their starting quarterback when they face the Buccaneers in Week 3.
