The Minnesota Vikings are on the brink of being eliminated from playoff contention at 4-8. But coach Kevin O’Connell is refusing to let the pressure overwhelm him ahead of a crucial matchup against the Washington Commanders on Sunday.

During media availability on Wednesday, he said:

“It’s about trying to go 1-0 this week. And if you understood or questioned why a cliche like that is used, we’re in a moment where it matters more so now than ever, ’cause it’s not 1-0 to win five in a row or nine in a row.”

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A major reason for the Vikings’ downfall from a stellar 14-3 record in 2024 to where they are now has been quarterback instability.

In the wake of Sam Darnold’s departure for Seattle, JJ McCarthy was finally elevated to starter in his return from a devastating knee injury. However, he lasted just two games, going 1-1, before spraining his ankle. Carson Wentz was eventually signed to stand in for him, and he went 2-3 before suffering a season-ending shoulder injury.

McCarthy eventually returned and lasted four games, going 1-3 with all losses being consecutive, before entering concussion protocol. Max Brosmer then had an awful debut at the Seattle Seahawks, throwing four interceptions and eating as many sacks.

Against the Commanders, McCarthy will start again. And O’Connell had some stern words about him:

“Let’s just make the throws. Let’s just throw and catch. Let’s just play with great rhythm and understanding of the plan.”

Vikings HC Kevin O’Connell addresses Justin Jefferson’s recent media silence after loss at Seahawks

In the same press conference, Kevin O’Connell addressed Justin Jefferson’s antics after the Vikings’ shutout loss at the Seahawks.

The star wide receiver, who was limited to just two catches for four yards that day, refused to speak to the media and immediately left the locker room. And the coach understood the reasoning behind such frustration:

“He obviously wants to win football games. As I’ve mentioned before, he is as competitive as anybody I’ve ever been around. He’s a leader on our team, and nobody is accepting any sort of the outcomes that we’re facing right now. … But he always, like he did today, shows up with energy, and he’s going to have an impact on our organization at a really high level.”

Kickoff for the Vikings-Commanders game is at 12 pm CT on Fox.